Alaska Airlines Pilot Salary and Benefits

Alaska Airlines is a major American airline headquartered in Seattle, Washington. It is one of the most prominent carriers on the West Coast of the United States and serves a wide range of domestic and international destinations. Working in this airline as a Pilot will give you a chance to earn an estimated average total pay of $1,24,842 per year or $10,403 per month. This is according to the published data of indeed.com, a well-trusted salary and job review site.

Also Read: Alaska Airlines Flight Attendant Requirements

Alaska Airlines was founded in 1932 as McGee Airways and later became known as Alaska Airlines. The airline initially operated in the state of Alaska and expanded to serve destinations in the continental United States. While it has a strong presence in the said country, the airline also operates flights to various cities in the contiguous United States, Mexico, Canada, and other international destinations, primarily through partnerships and alliances. It is also regarded as a well-established and respected carrier in the airline industry. Working in this airline can give you a lot of perks and benefits that can be extended to your family.

Alaska Airlines for pilots and Alaska Airlines Hub Locations for flight attendants
Image: Alaska Airlines

Cash Salary Breakdown

  • Basic Salary –  There are no provided details regarding the base pay of Pilots at Alaska Airlines as of the moment. But indeed.com published an average monthly total pay for Pilots in this airline which is at $10,403.
  • Flying Pay – According to glassdoor.com’s available data, a Pilot working in this airline can earn an estimated average flying pay of $71 per hour. The rate per hour offer is usually indicated in the job description of most airlines, if not, it will be discussed during the orientation and contract signing process.
  • Layover Allowance – Currently, there are no provided per diem pay rates data for Pilots at Alaska Airlines. The specific details of layover allowances, including per diem rates and conditions, are usually outlined in the pilot’s collective bargaining agreement or labor contract with the airline.

Also Read: Alaska Airlines Flight Attendant Salary and Benefits

Benefits

  • Competitive Salary – Alaska Airlines offers competitive pilot salaries, which can vary depending on factors such as rank (Captain or First Officer), experience, and aircraft type.
  • Health and Wellness – You will receive comprehensive health and wellness benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage extended to eligible dependents.
  • Life Insurance and Disability Coverage – Pilots typically receive life insurance and disability coverage as part of their benefits package.
  • Retirement Plans – Alaska Airlines provides retirement plans, often including a 401(k) plan, which may include employer contributions and a matching program to help pilots save for their retirement.
  • Profit Sharing – Alaska Airlines has had a profit-sharing program that allows employees, including pilots, to share in the company’s profits. The specifics can vary from year to year based on the airline’s financial performance.
  • Travel Privileges – Alaska Airlines pilots and eligible family members can enjoy travel privileges and fly for free or at reduced rates on the airline’s routes, even on other regional partners.
  • Work-Life Balance – Alaska Airlines has systems in place to support work-life balance for pilots. This includes scheduling practices and policies that consider the well-being of the crew.
  • Educational Assistance – Some airlines, including Alaska Airlines, offer tuition reimbursement or education assistance programs to help pilots further their education or obtain advanced certifications. The details may vary.
  • Union Representation – Pilots at Alaska Airlines are represented by the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), which negotiates collective bargaining agreements and advocates for the interests of pilots.

Also Read: How to Apply Alaska Airlines Flight Attendant Jobs

alaska air cabin and flight crews
Image: Alaska Airlines

Video: Is Alaska Airlines the Most Caring Airline?

This airline will let you witness a speech of one of the company’s ranked officers, giving emphasis on how caring this airline is. Airlines that prioritize the well-being of their passengers and crew often have robust safety programs and training in place. This ensures that you’ll be working for an airline that places safety as a top priority, which is crucial in the aviation industry. Caring airlines tend to be more considerate of their employees’ work-life balance. Meaning to say, Alaska Airlines may have better scheduling practices, which is important for maintaining a healthy and sustainable lifestyle for pilots.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What types of benefits does Alaska Airlines offer to its pilots?

Alaska Airlines typically provides a comprehensive benefits package that includes health and wellness benefits, retirement plans, travel privileges, and more.

2. Do Alaska Airlines pilots receive health insurance?

Yes, Alaska Airlines typically offers health insurance benefits, which may include medical, dental, and vision coverage for pilots and their eligible dependents.

3. What retirement plans are available to Alaska Airlines pilots?

Alaska Airlines may offer retirement plans, such as a 401(k) plan, which allows pilots to save for their retirement with employer contributions.

4. What about travel privileges for Alaska Airlines pilots?

Alaska Airlines pilots generally enjoy travel benefits that allow them and eligible family members to fly for free or at reduced rates on the airline’s routes, as well as those of their regional partners.

5. How do pilot schedules and work-life balance work at Alaska Airlines?

Pilot schedules can vary based on seniority and the specific type of flying (e.g., domestic, international, cargo, etc.). Alaska Airlines may have systems in place to support work-life balance, but the details can vary based on individual pilot circumstances.

6. Is there a union representing Alaska Airlines pilots?

Yes, the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) represents the pilots of Alaska Airlines. They negotiate collective bargaining agreements and work to protect the interests of the pilots.

Summary

If you work as a Pilot in this airline, expect to earn an estimated average total pay of $1,24,842 per year or $10,403 per month. While Alaska Airlines is not part of one of the three major global airline alliances (Star Alliance, oneworld, SkyTeam), it has established partnerships with various airlines, including global carriers like American Airlines and international alliances like Oneworld. These partnerships expand the airline’s reach and provide passengers with a wider network of destinations, creating more jobs for Pilots.