UPS Airlines Pilot Salary 2026
First Officer & Captain pay scales · Updated May 2026
Matches FedEx as the top-paying US airline. Defined benefit pension and incredible schedule make UPS a dream job for cargo pilots.
| First Officer (entry) | $105,000 /yr |
|---|---|
| First Officer (mid-career) | $195,000 /yr |
| Captain (year 1) | $285,000 /yr |
| Captain (top of scale) | $400,000 /yr |
| Currency | USD · United States |
| Minimum hours | 1,500 total time |
| Type rating | Provided by airline |
| Hiring status | Actively hiring |
| Fleet you will fly | B747, B757, B767, B777, MD-11 +1 more |
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 UPS Airlines.
Most pilots get to UPS Airlines 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 majors interview panels actually weigh.
Salary by Seat × Year
| Position | Year 1 | Year 5 | Year 10 |
|---|---|---|---|
| First Officer | $105,000 | $195,000 | $225,000 |
| Captain | $285,000 | $365,000 | $400,000 |
All figures in USD. Base pay only — does not include per diem, profit sharing or 401k/pension match where applicable.
How UPS Airlines Pay Compares
Same currency (USD), captain top-of-scale ranked. Helps you sanity-check whether UPS Airlines pays above or below market for its peer group.
| Airline | FO Year 1 | FO Year 10 | Captain Year 1 | Captain top |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| United Airlines | $90,000 | $210,000 | $255,000 | $405,000 |
| UPS Airlines (this page) | $105,000 | $225,000 | $285,000 | $400,000 |
| American Airlines | $88,000 | $205,000 | $250,000 | $400,000 |
| FedEx Express | $105,000 | $225,000 | $285,000 | $400,000 |
Salary Progression
First Officer
Captain
Benefits & Total Compensation
Base pay is only the floor. UPS Airlines 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
1,500
Type Rating Provided
Yes
Career Progression
Average
Unionized
Yes
Quality of Life Rating
Based on schedule flexibility, base locations, commutability, travel benefits, and overall pilot satisfaction.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a UPS Airlines pilot make?
A First Officer at UPS Airlines earns $105,000 in year 1, rising to $225,000 by year 10. Captains earn $285,000 initially, reaching $400,000 at year 10.
Is UPS Airlines hiring pilots in 2026?
Yes, UPS Airlines is actively hiring pilots in 2026. Minimum flight hours required: 1,500.
What are the minimum hours to fly for UPS Airlines?
UPS Airlines requires a minimum of 1,500 total flight hours. Type rating training is provided by the airline.
Does UPS Airlines provide type rating training?
Yes, UPS Airlines provides type rating training for new hires on their fleet types: B747, B757, B767, B777, MD-11, A300.
What is the career progression like at UPS Airlines?
Career progression at UPS Airlines is rated as "Average". Pilots are unionized, which provides structured seniority-based advancement. Quality of life is rated 5/5.
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