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Aeromexico vs Volaris

A side-by-side comparison of pilot careers at Aeromexico (AM) and Volaris (Y4) — covering salary, fleet, requirements, and more.

Head-to-Head Comparison

Aeromexico
Volaris
Country
Mexico
Mexico
Airline Type
Major Airline
Low-Cost Carrier
IATA Code
AM
Y4
Regulatory Authority
DGAC
DGAC
First Officer Salary
$35,000 - $65,000
$30,000 - $55,000
Captain Salary
$90,000 - $160,000
$80,000 - $140,000
Fleet
Boeing 737 MAX/787, Embraer E190
Airbus A320/321neo

Requirements Comparison

Aeromexico

  • DGAC ATPL
  • 1,500+ hours
  • Class 1 medical
  • Spanish and English proficiency

Volaris

  • DGAC ATPL
  • Class 1 medical
  • Airbus type rating
  • Spanish proficiency
  • Mexican work authorization

Pros & Cons

Aeromexico

Pros

  • +Modern fleet with 787 Dreamliner
  • +Simplified fleet — fewer type ratings needed

Cons

  • Lower starting FO salary compared to US/Gulf carriers

Volaris

Pros

  • +Faster career progression
  • +Simplified fleet — fewer type ratings needed

Cons

  • Higher workload with quick turnarounds
  • Lower starting FO salary compared to US/Gulf carriers
  • Type rating required before application

About Each Airline

Aeromexico

Mexico's flag carrier and SkyTeam member operates domestic and international routes from Mexico City.

Full Aeromexico career guide →

Volaris

Mexico's largest ultra-low-cost carrier, rapidly expanding across Mexico, Central America, and the United States.

Full Volaris career guide →

Calculate Your Salary

Model your earning potential at Aeromexico or Volaris based on your experience, ratings, and career stage.

Salary Calculator

Test Your Knowledge

Study DGAC theory questions with our free interactive quiz.

Practice Quiz