Air Arabia Pilot Salary 2026
First Officer & Captain pay scales · Updated May 2026
Middle East's first and largest LCC based in Sharjah. Multiple hubs across the region with tax-free compensation.
| First Officer (entry) | $65,000 /yr |
|---|---|
| First Officer (mid-career) | $82,000 /yr |
| Captain (year 1) | $135,000 /yr |
| Captain (top of scale) | $195,000 /yr |
| Currency | USD · United Arab Emirates |
| Minimum hours | 2,000 total time |
| Type rating | Required before joining |
| Hiring status | Actively hiring |
| Fleet you will fly | A320, A321neo |
Cross-check these numbers against the broader 2026 pilot pay benchmarks before you commit, and if you are still building hours, see how a sponsored seat at a 2026 airline cadet program shortcuts the path to Air Arabia.
Most pilots get to Air Arabia the long way: a regional first. Compare these scales against the 2026 regional airline pay scales to see what your first 3–5 years actually look like, or the cargo pilot salary guide if FedEx or UPS is on your shortlist. Aiming for a US legacy seat? The step-by-step how to get hired at Delta playbook breaks down what the US legacy interview panels actually weigh.
Salary by Seat × Year
| Position | Year 1 | Year 5 | Year 10 |
|---|---|---|---|
| First Officer | $65,000 | $82,000 | $95,000 |
| Captain | $135,000 | $165,000 | $195,000 |
All figures in USD. Base pay only — does not include per diem, profit sharing or 401k/pension match where applicable.
How Air Arabia Pay Compares
Same currency (USD), captain top-of-scale ranked. Helps you sanity-check whether Air Arabia pays above or below market for its peer group.
| Airline | FO Year 1 | FO Year 10 | Captain Year 1 | Captain top |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Copa Airlines | $52,000 | $90,000 | $125,000 | $200,000 |
| Air Arabia (this page) | $65,000 | $95,000 | $135,000 | $195,000 |
| Air Arabia Abu Dhabi | $62,000 | $92,000 | $130,000 | $190,000 |
| SkyWest Airlines | $60,000 | $110,000 | $120,000 | $185,000 |
Salary Progression
First Officer
Captain
Benefits & Total Compensation
Base pay is only the floor. Air Arabia also includes the following package items, which can lift total comp by 20–40% above advertised base.
Fleet Types
5 pilot bases worldwide
Requirements & Career
Minimum Flight Hours
2,000
Type Rating Provided
No
Career Progression
Fast
Unionized
No
Quality of Life Rating
Based on schedule flexibility, base locations, commutability, travel benefits, and overall pilot satisfaction.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Air Arabia pilot make?
A First Officer at Air Arabia earns $65,000 in year 1, rising to $95,000 by year 10. Captains earn $135,000 initially, reaching $195,000 at year 10.
Is Air Arabia hiring pilots in 2026?
Yes, Air Arabia is actively hiring pilots in 2026. Minimum flight hours required: 2,000.
What are the minimum hours to fly for Air Arabia?
Air Arabia requires a minimum of 2,000 total flight hours. You may need to obtain a type rating at your own expense.
Does Air Arabia provide type rating training?
No, Air Arabia typically requires pilots to have a type rating before joining. Self-sponsored type ratings on A320, A321neo are common.
What is the career progression like at Air Arabia?
Career progression at Air Arabia is rated as "Fast". Pilots are not unionized; progression depends on company policies and growth. Quality of life is rated 3/5.
Compare With Other Middle East Airlines
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