SkyWest Airlines Pilot Salary and Benefits

SkyWest is one of the airlines in the US that has a wide range of partnerships. This airline also gives the best benefits that a Pilot aspirant is always seeking. Working in this airline as a Pilot will give you a chance to earn an estimated average total pay of $108,669 per year or $9,055 per month. While the base pay lies at $100,569 per year or $8,380 per month. This is according to the published data of Glassdoor, a well-trusted salary and job review site online.

Also Read: SkyWest Airlines Flight Attendant Requirements

SkyWest Airlines was founded in 1972 by Ralph Atkin as a small charter and cargo service based in St. George, Utah. In 1974, the airline transitioned into a regional airline, providing scheduled passenger services. Where it focused on connecting smaller communities to larger hubs. The company’s fleet evolved,  working on regional jet aircraft. It has operated various models, including the Bombardier CRJ series and the Embraer E175. SkyWest entered into code-sharing agreements with major U.S. carriers, including Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, American Airlines, and Alaska Airlines. These partnerships allowed the said airline to operate flights under the brand names of its major airline partners.

Cash Salary Breakdown

• Basic Salary – Pilots working at SkyWest can earn an average monthly base pay of $8,380. This data is based on the published estimated annual pay rates of glassdoor.com. There are no mentioned base pay rates for this airline, so the provided salary above is based on the Annual Total Pay given.
• Flying Pay – According to SkyWest’s official Payscale, a Pilot can earn a flying pay rate of $90 per flight hour on the first year. This will eventually increase to $95.20 after 3 years. 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 working in this airline. More 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: SkyWest Airlines Flight Attendant Responsibilities

Benefits

• Minimum Daily Guarantee – SkyWest gives 4.2 hours daily guarantee for Pilots. The minimum daily guarantee for pilots refers to the minimum number of flight hours or pay that a pilot is assured to receive, even if they don’t fly that many hours. This is a common feature in pilot contracts and agreements to provide some level of income stability.
• Six paid holidays per year, whether working or not – Paid holiday leave is indeed a valuable benefit for pilots and many other employees. It provides financial security and allows individuals to take time off to spend with family and friends during important occasions.
• Deadhead Pay – SkyWest gives 100% deadhead pay for Pilots. This benefit for pilots refers to compensation provided when a pilot is required to travel as a passenger (not actively working or flying the aircraft) to or from a designated work location, usually to start or end a duty assignment. This compensation is meant to cover the pilot’s time, travel, and any inconvenience associated with deadheading.
• Industry-leading 401(k) program – This airline is proud of giving the best retirement plan for Pilots. An “industry-leading” 401(k) program generally implies that the retirement savings plan offered by a company is considered exceptional compared to others in the same industry. When an employer advertises an “industry-leading” 401(k) program, it suggests that they are investing in the long-term financial well-being of their employees.
• 75 hours per month after completing Initial Operating Experience (IOE) – The airline makes sure that Pilots will achieve their ideal working hours per month.
• Unmatched GPI programs with three partners – General Pilot Improvement programs are often designed to enhance a pilot’s skills, knowledge, and overall performance. These programs may cover a range of topics, including advanced flying techniques, safety procedures, and the use of new technologies.

Also Read: SkyWest Airlines Flight Attendant Salary and Benefits

Video: My SkyWest Journey: Captain Suzy Garret

Historically, aviation has been a male-dominated field, but there is a push to change that narrative. This video features a lady captain working for Skywest Airlines, who proves that gender is not a hindrance to succeed as a Pilot. Airlines are actively working to recruit and retain more female pilots through various initiatives, mentorship programs, and outreach efforts. Additionally, there has been an increase in awareness about the importance of diversity in the cockpit.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How does the pilot training program at SkyWest work?

SkyWest Airlines provides a tuition reimbursement program for eligible pilots, which essentially means that pilots may receive financial assistance to help offset the costs of the flight training.

2. What are the types of aircraft does SkyWest operate, and how does aircraft assignment work for pilots?

• Embraer E175 – SkyWest operates a significant number of Embraer E175 regional jets, often as part of the United Express and Delta Connection networks.

• Bombardier CRJ Series – SkyWest has historically operated various models of the Bombardier CRJ (Canadair Regional Jet) series, including the CRJ200, CRJ700, and CRJ900. These aircraft have been flown for different major airlines, such as Delta Connection and American Eagle.
• Mitsubishi CRJ Series – SkyWest has also been involved in the operation of the Mitsubishi Regional Jet (MRJ), which later became the SpaceJet.

3. What is the typical career progression for a pilot at SkyWest Airlines?

The career progression for a pilot at SkyWest Airlines, like at many other airlines, generally follows a path from entry-level positions to more advanced roles.

4. What benefits and perks does SkyWest offer to its pilots?

SkyWest Pilots can enjoy some of the most unusual perks given by airlines. Most aspirants choose this company because of the good benefits package it gives, such as paid leaves, high-standard retirement plans, and health insurance.

5. Is this airline a better place to start a career as a Pilot?

Pilots at SkyWest Airlines may take Control of Their Pilot Careers since they have greater access and opportunities than pilots at other small airlines. SkyWest provides the highest quality of life for pilots with 19 domiciles, a fleet of around 500 aircraft, and flying agreements with four major partners; United, Delta, American, and Alaska.

Summary

Pilots working at SkyWest can earn an average monthly base pay of $8,380 and a flying pay rate of $90 per flight hour in the first year. You’ll have access to unrivaled advantages and limitless opportunities at SkyWest.