Pilot Salary in Pakistan 2026 GOVT decide to increase it
Becoming a pilot in Pakistan is considered one of the most prestigious and rewarding careers. Pilots fly aircraft for commercial airlines or serve in the Pakistan Air Force (PAF). In 2026, pilot salaries vary widely based on experience, airline, rank, and route type (domestic or international).
How Much Do Pilots Earn in Pakistan (2026)?
Pilot salaries are not the same for everyone — they depend on rank, experience, airline, and flight routes. Here’s a simple summary of typical monthly salaries:
| Pilot Type/Rank | Monthly Salary (PKR) |
|---|---|
| Trainee / First Officer | 180,000–350,000 |
| Junior First Officer | 350,000–600,000 |
| Senior First Officer | 600,000–900,000 |
| Captain (Domestic) | 900,000–1,400,000 |
| Captain (International) | 1,500,000–2,800,000 |
| PAF Fighter Pilot | 180,000–350,000 (with benefits) |
These figures are estimates based on industry data and airline pay scales in 2025–26. Salaries can be higher with allowances for flying hours, international routes, and special tasks.
Commercial Airline Pilot Salaries
Trainee/First Officer
New pilots just starting with a commercial airline (like PIA, Airblue, AirSial, or SereneAir) typically earn between Rs.180,000 and Rs.350,000 per month at the beginning of their careers.
Junior and Senior First Officers
After gaining some flight hours:
- Junior First Officers earn around Rs.350,000–600,000 per month.
- Senior First Officers make around Rs.600,000–900,000 per month.
Captains
Captains are the highest‑ranked pilots in commercial airlines:
- Domestic Captains: Around Rs.900,000–1,400,000 per month.
- International Captains: Often between Rs.1,500,000 and Rs.2,800,000 per month, depending on the airline and route.
These salaries also include flight and route allowances, which can increase the total monthly earnings significantly.
PIA Pilot Salaries
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is the largest airline in Pakistan and offers competitive salaries and benefits to its pilots.
Typical monthly pay for PIA pilots in 2025–26 includes:
- First Officer: Around Rs.350,000–700,000
- Senior First Officer: Around Rs.550,000–900,000
- Captain (Domestic/Regional): Around Rs.900,000–1,600,000
- Captain (International/Boeing): Up to Rs.2,200,000+ with allowances
PIA pilots also get per‑hour flying allowances, night‑stop allowances, travel perks, and other benefits that boost their income.
Military Pilots (PAF)
Pilots in the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) have a different pay structure. While their base salary is generally lower than commercial pilots, they receive significant allowances and government benefits such as housing, medical care, insurance, and pension.
- PAF Fighter Pilot: Around Rs.180,000–350,000 per month (total with benefits)
Even though their salary may seem lower compared to commercial captains, the overall benefits and career stability are strong in the Air Force.
Factors That Affect Pilot Salary
Several things influence how much a pilot earns:
1. Experience
The more flight hours and years you have, the higher your pay will be.
2. Type of Airline
International airlines or flying long‑haul routes pay more than smaller domestic carriers.
3. Rank and License
Pilots with an Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) and captain experience earn the most.
4. Flight Hours & Routes
Pilots flying international long‑haul routes generally earn higher allowances.
5. Add‑On Allowances
Night shift, per‑hour flying pay, hotel allowances, and travel perks add significant income.
These factors make pilot salaries in Pakistan quite dynamic and rewarding for experienced professionals.
Perks & Allowances Pilots Get
Pilots often receive extras in addition to base salary:
✔ Flying allowances per hour
✔ Night and international route allowances
✔ Overtime pay
✔ Travel perks for pilots and their families
✔ Health and life insurance
✔ Retirement plans in major carriers
These perks increase the total monthly income, making piloting a financially attractive job.
Career Growth in Aviation
Pilot salary generally increases over time:
- New first officers start at lower pay.
- After a few years and more flight hours, pilots can become senior officers and captains with much higher salaries.
- Some pilots also become instructors or check pilots, which can further increase their earnings.
Becoming a pilot often requires years of training, flight hours, and certifications, but the career path is among the most respected and well‑paid in aviation.
Is Being a Pilot in Pakistan Worth It?
Yes — a pilot in Pakistan has the potential to earn a strong income, especially after gaining experience and flying international routes. Pilots also enjoy travel privileges, job respect, and career stability.
However, becoming a pilot requires significant investment in training, especially for a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) and type ratings. Once qualified, pilots can build a long‑term career with fast salary growth compared to many other professions.
Final Words
In 2026, pilot salaries in Pakistan range from around Rs.180,000 for entry roles to over Rs.2,500,000 for senior international captains. Whether you plan to fly for Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), Airblue, AirSial, SereneAir, or abroad, a career in aviation is financially rewarding and offers global opportunities for growth.
