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Turkish Airlines vs Qatar Airways
A side-by-side comparison of pilot careers at Turkish Airlines (TK) and Qatar Airways (QR) — covering salary, fleet, requirements, and more.
Head-to-Head Comparison
Turkish Airlines
Qatar Airways
Country
Turkey
Qatar
Airline Type
Major Airline
Major International Airline
IATA Code
TK
QR
Regulatory Authority
EASA
EASA
First Officer Salary
$60,000 - $100,000
$95,000 - $140,000 (tax-free)
Captain Salary
$140,000 - $220,000
$180,000 - $320,000 (tax-free)
Fleet
Boeing 737/777/787, Airbus A319/320/321/330/350
Airbus A320/321/330/340/350/380, Boeing 737/777/787
Requirements Comparison
Turkish Airlines
- ICAO ATPL
- 3,000+ hours total
- 1,500+ on jets
- Class 1 medical
- English Level 4+
Qatar Airways
- ICAO ATPL
- 3,000+ hours total time
- 1,500+ on multi-crew jets
- Valid Class 1 medical
- ICAO English Level 4+
Pros & Cons
Turkish Airlines
Pros
- +Modern fleet with 787 Dreamliner
- +Simplified fleet — fewer type ratings needed
Cons
- –High minimum hour requirements (3,000+)
Qatar Airways
Pros
- +Tax-free salary
- +Modern fleet with 787 Dreamliner
- +Simplified fleet — fewer type ratings needed
- +Tax-free jurisdiction
Cons
- –High minimum hour requirements (3,000+)
- –Relocation to the Middle East required
About Each Airline
Turkish Airlines
Turkish Airlines flies to more countries than any other airline, operating from Istanbul's new mega-hub airport.
Full Turkish Airlines career guide →Qatar Airways
Qatar Airways is a premium carrier based in Doha, operating one of the world's most modern fleets to destinations across six continents.
Full Qatar Airways career guide →Calculate Your Salary
Model your earning potential at Turkish Airlines or Qatar Airways based on your experience, ratings, and career stage.
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