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Copa Airlines vs Avianca
A side-by-side comparison of pilot careers at Copa Airlines (CM) and Avianca (AV) — covering salary, fleet, requirements, and more.
Head-to-Head Comparison
Copa Airlines
Avianca
Country
Panama
Colombia
Airline Type
Major Airline
Major Airline
IATA Code
CM
AV
Regulatory Authority
DGAC
DGAC
First Officer Salary
$50,000 - $90,000
$35,000 - $70,000
Captain Salary
$120,000 - $200,000
$90,000 - $160,000
Fleet
Boeing 737 MAX
Airbus A319/320/321/330, Boeing 787
Requirements Comparison
Copa Airlines
- DGAC ATPL or ICAO equivalent
- 1,500+ hours
- Class 1 medical
- Spanish and English proficiency
Avianca
- DGAC ATPL or equivalent
- 1,500+ hours total
- Class 1 medical
- Spanish proficiency
- Colombian work authorization or cadet program
Pros & Cons
Copa Airlines
Pros
- +Simplified fleet — fewer type ratings needed
Avianca
Pros
- +Modern fleet with 787 Dreamliner
- +Simplified fleet — fewer type ratings needed
- +Cadet program available
Cons
- –Lower starting FO salary compared to US/Gulf carriers
About Each Airline
Copa Airlines
Panama's flagship carrier and a Star Alliance member, Copa connects the Americas through its Hub of the Americas at Tocumen International.
Full Copa Airlines career guide →Avianca
One of the oldest airlines in the world, Avianca is a key carrier in the Americas with a hub in Bogota.
Full Avianca career guide →Calculate Your Salary
Model your earning potential at Copa Airlines or Avianca based on your experience, ratings, and career stage.
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