Horizon Air Pilot Salary and Benefits

Horizon Air stands as a prominent regional airline known for its commitment to safety and excellence in service. This airline is a sister carrier of Alaska Airlines. According to glassdoor.com, a Pilot working at Horizon Air can earn an average total pay of $111,211 per year or $9,267 per month. The base pay was mentioned at a rate of $104,598 per year or $8,716 per month. The pilot salary range in this airline varies mainly through the position of Captain and First Officer, as well as the destination served.

Also Read: Horizon Air Flight Attendant Requirements

Established in 1981, Horizon Air has been a key player in regional aviation, serving as a subsidiary of Alaska Air Group. Over the years, the airline has built a reputation for connecting communities and providing reliable air travel services. Initially starting with a fleet of small turboprop aircraft, the company expanded its operations and modernized its fleet, which led to success.

Horizon Airlines Pilot Salary
Image; Horizon Airlines

Cash Salary Breakdown

  • Basic Salary – Pilots working at Horizon Air can earn an estimated average base pay of $8,716 per month. This data is based on the published estimated annual pay rates of glassdoor.com.
  • Flying Pay – According to Alaska Air’s official career page which is a sister company of Horizon, a Pilot working as a First Officer can earn a flying pay rate of $90 per hour for the first year of service. The rate per hour usually depends on seniority, length of service, and the type of aircraft flown.
  • Layover Allowance – Based on the provided data of this airline’s sister company, the per diem pay for waiting for new Pilots is $6,500. 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: Horizon Air Flight Attendant Salary and Benefits

Benefits

  • Sign On Bonus – Pilots in this airline will receive a sign-on bonus of $25,000 – $50,000. A sign-on bonus for pilots is a financial incentive offered by airlines or aviation companies to attract experienced and qualified pilots to join their organizations. This bonus is typically a one-time, lump-sum payment provided to a pilot upon accepting a job offer and meeting specific conditions outlined in the employment contract.
  • Retirement Plan – The US has a retirement plan for Pilots named 401k. The said benefit is a savings plan that allows you to contribute a portion of your pre-tax salary into an investment account. Most airlines in the said country provide this benefit. You will surely benefit from this in the future when the the comes that you decide to retire and enjoy life. The coverage and arrangement will solely depend on the airline you work for.
  • Travel Perks – Pilots at Horizon Air receive free and discounted travel tickets on partner airlines. This is a great perk if you want to explore places and take a deep breath with your loved ones.
  • Performance Bonus – Horizon Air gives a performance bonus for Pilots up to $9,450. A company performance bonus is a form of additional compensation that is awarded to employees based on the overall performance of the company. Company performance bonuses are typically tied to specific goals or benchmarks that the company as a whole needs to achieve.
  • ATP-CTP – If you want to join Horizon Air but still need to take the ATP-CTP class, the airline will cover the cost of the course, transportation to/from this course, and hotel accommodation.

Also Read: How to Apply Horizon Air Flight Attendant Hiring

Horizon Airlines Pilot Salary
Image: Horizon Airlines

Video: TRIP REPORT | Alaska/Horizon Airlines Embraer E175LR Main Cabin | Seattle – Portland

Watching trip reports can give you the reality of how an airline facilitates a flight. As a Pilot, you need to get familiar with the type of aircraft and cabin size of the airline you want to enter. This will help you be ready for the challenges ahead.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are there any bonuses for pilots at Horizon Air?

Some bonuses may be available based on performance, meeting certain milestones, or participating in special programs. Based on the details provided by the airline’s sister company (Alaska Airlines) there is a Sign and Performance Bonus allotted for pilots.

2. What types of aircraft does Horizon Air operate, and how does it impact pilot salaries?

There are 30 Embraer 175 and a fleet of Bombardier Q400 aircraft flown by Horizon Air. Horizon Air operates a diverse fleet, and pilot salaries can vary based on the type of aircraft flown. Larger or more complex aircraft may result in higher compensation.

3. Do pilots have access to discounted or free air travel with Horizon Air?

Yes, pilots at Horizon Air typically enjoy travel privileges, including discounted or complimentary air travel which you can enjoy with your family.

4. Are there any educational or training opportunities provided to pilots by Horizon Air?

Yes, Horizon Air invests in the continuous professional development of its pilots, offering training programs and opportunities to help you enhance existing skills and knowledge.

5. Do Horizon Air pilots receive health insurance?

Yes, Horizon Air provides health and dental insurance as part of its comprehensive benefits package for pilots.

Summary

Pilots at Horizon Air can earn an average base pay of $8,716 per month. The airline offers competitive salaries, a structured pay scale based on factors such as experience and seniority, and a comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance, retirement plans, and travel privileges. It is definitely a great career hub for aspiring pilots like you.