Pilots play a crucial role in global transportation, but many people wonder how many hours a week they actually work. Pilot schedules are complex, influenced by various regulations and job types. This guide covers the average work hours for pilots, what factors determine their schedules, and how they balance work and personal life.
Learn All About Pilot Scheduling and Salaries
Pilot schedules vary based on flight type, seniority, and regulations. While commercial pilots typically work 75–100 flight hours per month, their total work hours—including pre-flight planning and layovers—can reach 140 hours monthly. Salaries also differ, with regional airline pilots earning less than major airline captains. Learn more about pilot salaries here.
What Determines How Much a Pilot Works?
Commercial Pilot
Commercial pilots operate cargo flights, charter services, and emergency operations. They often fly irregular hours, averaging 75–100 flight hours per month, with additional hours spent on flight prep.
Flight Instructor
Flight instructors usually work standard business hours, though schedules can extend into weekends or evenings. They spend more time on the ground teaching and supervising flights than actually flying.
Airline Transport Pilot
Airline transport pilots work for commercial airlines and face strict regulations. They typically log 75–100 flight hours monthly but can work up to 140 hours with ground duties included.
How Many Hours a Week Do Pilots Work and What Determines This?
Seniority
Seniority plays a significant role in pilot schedules. More experienced pilots can choose preferred routes and days off, while junior pilots often take less desirable shifts. Learn more about commercial pilot career seniority and advancement here.
Flight Time Limitations
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) limits how many hours pilots can fly to ensure safety. U.S. airline pilots cannot fly more than 8–9 hours in a day, depending on the time of day and number of flight segments.
Long-Haul Flights vs. Short-Haul Flights
Long-haul pilots fly fewer flights with longer durations and more rest days, while short-haul pilots fly multiple short trips daily, often with tighter schedules.
FAA Regulations
FAA rules cap pilot flying hours at 1,000 annually and 100 monthly, ensuring pilots remain well-rested. These regulations prevent fatigue-related risks. Understanding annual and monthly work limits can be helpful when comparing industries. Learn more about how many work weeks are in a year to put pilot hours into perspective
Work Hours vs. Flying Hours
Pilots’ flying hours only account for time in the air. However, they also spend time on pre-flight checks, waiting for flights, and layovers. This can push total weekly work hours beyond flying hours, reaching up to 60–70 hours. Like other professions, pilots are subject to work-hour limits for safety. Read about the legality of working 7 days a week if you’re curious about general workweek regulations.
How Many Hours Can a Pilot Fly Consecutively?
Daily Limits
Pilots can fly a maximum of 8–9 hours daily, depending on the flight schedule. They must also receive 10 hours of rest, including 8 hours of sleep.
Monthly Limits
Pilots are limited to 100 flight hours in a calendar month.
Yearly Limits
FAA regulations cap pilot flight hours at 1,000 annually.
How Are Pilots’ Schedules Assigned?
Reserve Pilots
Junior pilots often start on reserve status, meaning they must be ready to fly on short notice. Senior pilots have more control over their schedules.
Variables in Scheduling
Schedules vary due to route demands, weather, and aircraft availability, making flexibility essential for pilots.
Do Pilots Have Time for Family and Free Time?
Pilot schedules can be demanding, but many airlines offer several days off between flights. Long-haul pilots may enjoy extended rest periods, while short-haul pilots might return home more frequently. Seniority often allows more control over work-life balance.
Pilot Job Outlook and Perks
The demand for pilots is expected to grow due to increased air travel and pilot retirements. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for airline pilots was $134,630 in 2022. Perks include travel benefits, flexible schedules, and high earning potential.
How Much Do Pilots Make?
Hourly Pay
Entry-level regional pilots may earn $20–$50 per hour, while experienced airline captains can earn over $150 per hour.
Annual Salary
Commercial pilots can make between $80,000 and over $200,000 annually, depending on experience, airline, and flight routes.
FAQs
How many hours do pilots work per day?
Pilots generally fly 8–9 hours a day but may work longer when including prep and waiting times.
Do pilots have a lot of free time?
It depends on the type of flying and seniority. Long-haul pilots often have more extended breaks, while short-haul pilots might work more days with shorter breaks.
What pilots make $200,000 a year?
Experienced captains at major airlines and international carriers can earn over $200,000 annually.
What is a realistic schedule for a pilot?
Pilots typically work irregular hours, with 75–100 flight hours monthly and up to 140 total work hours including ground duties.
What is a typical pilots work schedule?
Schedules vary but may include several consecutive workdays followed by rest days. Seniority allows for better schedule selection.
Do pilots get weekends off?
Not always. Flight demand dictates schedules, but senior pilots can request weekends off.
Do pilots go home every night?
Short-haul pilots often return home daily, but long-haul pilots may stay overnight at destinations.
Do pilots choose their hours?
Pilots bid for schedules based on seniority. New pilots have less choice, while senior pilots can select preferred shifts.
What is the pilot retirement age?
FAA regulations mandate retirement at age 65 for airline transport pilots.