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FedEx Express vs United Airlines
A side-by-side comparison of pilot careers at FedEx Express (FX) and United Airlines (UA) — covering salary, fleet, requirements, and more.
Head-to-Head Comparison
FedEx Express
United Airlines
Country
United States
United States
Airline Type
Cargo Airline
Major Airline
IATA Code
FX
UA
Regulatory Authority
FAA
FAA
First Officer Salary
$100,000 - $220,000
$90,000 - $200,000
Captain Salary
$280,000 - $400,000+
$250,000 - $400,000+
Fleet
Boeing 757, 767, 777, MD-11, Airbus A300
Boeing 737, 757, 767, 777, 787, Airbus A319/320/321
Requirements Comparison
FedEx Express
- ATP certificate
- 1,500+ hours total time
- 500+ hours turbine PIC
- FAA Class 1 medical
- Excellent safety record
United Airlines
- ATP certificate
- 1,500+ hours total time
- FAA Class 1 medical
- 1,000+ hours PIC preferred
- 4-year degree preferred
Pros & Cons
FedEx Express
Pros
- +Industry-leading captain pay
- +Daytime flexibility with cargo schedule
- +Large domestic route network
Cons
- –Primarily night flying operations
United Airlines
Pros
- +Industry-leading captain pay
- +Modern fleet with 787 Dreamliner
- +Diverse fleet with many type rating opportunities
- +Large domestic route network
Cons
- –Longer wait for specific type ratings due to fleet size
About Each Airline
FedEx Express
FedEx Express is one of the highest-paying airlines in the world. Cargo operations mean primarily night flying but excellent compensation and schedules.
Full FedEx Express career guide →United Airlines
United Airlines operates a massive global network from its hubs in Newark, Chicago, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Washington.
Full United Airlines career guide →Calculate Your Salary
Model your earning potential at FedEx Express or United Airlines based on your experience, ratings, and career stage.
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