Hiring PausedUnited StatesNorth AmericaUnionized

Pilot Salary at Spirit Airlines

By Renzo, CPL · Updated March 2026

Ultra-low-cost carrier that has seen turbulent times but offers fast upgrade potential. Airbus single-type fleet keeps training simple.

Salary Breakdown

PositionYear 1Year 5Year 10
First Officer$70,000$120,000$145,000
Captain$170,000$230,000$275,000

Salary Progression

First Officer

Year 1
$70,000
Year 5
$120,000
Year 10
$145,000

Captain

Year 1
$170,000
Year 5
$230,000
Year 10
$275,000

Benefits & Perks

Free travel (standby)
Health insurance
401k match
Life insurance

Fleet Types

A320A321

7 pilot bases worldwide

Requirements & Career

Minimum Flight Hours

1,500

Type Rating Provided

Yes

Career Progression

Fast

Unionized

Yes

Quality of Life Rating

3/5

Based on schedule flexibility, base locations, commutability, travel benefits, and overall pilot satisfaction.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Spirit Airlines pilot make?

A First Officer at Spirit Airlines earns $70,000 in year 1, rising to $145,000 by year 10. Captains earn $170,000 initially, reaching $275,000 at year 10.

Is Spirit Airlines hiring pilots in 2026?

Spirit Airlines has paused pilot hiring for now. Check back periodically for updates.

What are the minimum hours to fly for Spirit Airlines?

Spirit Airlines requires a minimum of 1,500 total flight hours. Type rating training is provided by the airline.

Does Spirit Airlines provide type rating training?

Yes, Spirit Airlines provides type rating training for new hires on their fleet types: A320, A321.

What is the career progression like at Spirit Airlines?

Career progression at Spirit Airlines is rated as "Fast". Pilots are unionized, which provides structured seniority-based advancement. Quality of life is rated 3/5.

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