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Qantas Airways vs Singapore Airlines

A side-by-side comparison of pilot careers at Qantas Airways (QF) and Singapore Airlines (SQ) — covering salary, fleet, requirements, and more.

Head-to-Head Comparison

Qantas Airways
Singapore Airlines
Country
Australia
Singapore
Airline Type
Major Airline
Premium International Airline
IATA Code
QF
SQ
Regulatory Authority
FAA
FAA
First Officer Salary
A$100,000 - A$180,000
S$100,000 - S$170,000
Captain Salary
A$220,000 - A$380,000
S$250,000 - S$400,000
Fleet
Boeing 737/787, Airbus A330/380
Boeing 737/777/787, Airbus A350/380

Requirements Comparison

Qantas Airways

  • CASA ATPL
  • 2,500+ hours total
  • 500+ hours on type
  • Class 1 medical
  • Australian work rights

Singapore Airlines

  • ICAO ATPL
  • Minimum 2,500 hours on jets
  • Current type rating on wide-body
  • Class 1 medical

Pros & Cons

Qantas Airways

Pros

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

Singapore Airlines

Pros

  • +Industry-leading captain pay
  • +Modern fleet with 787 Dreamliner
  • +Simplified fleet — fewer type ratings needed
  • +Premium global reputation

Cons

  • Type rating required before application

About Each Airline

Qantas Airways

Australia's flag carrier and one of the world's safest airlines, offering premium routes across the Asia-Pacific and beyond.

Full Qantas Airways career guide →

Singapore Airlines

Consistently rated the world's best airline, Singapore Airlines offers premium compensation and the chance to fly the world's most modern fleet.

Full Singapore Airlines career guide →

Calculate Your Salary

Model your earning potential at Qantas Airways or Singapore Airlines based on your experience, ratings, and career stage.

Salary Calculator

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