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Singapore Airlines vs Qantas Airways

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

Head-to-Head Comparison

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

Requirements Comparison

Singapore Airlines

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

Qantas Airways

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

Pros & Cons

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

Qantas Airways

Pros

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

About Each Airline

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 →

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 →

Calculate Your Salary

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

Salary Calculator

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