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Pilot Salary at Lufthansa

By Renzo, CPL · Updated March 2026

Europe's largest airline group with unmatched fleet diversity. Strong union protection and excellent pension. Long seniority waits for widebody.

Salary Breakdown

PositionYear 1Year 5Year 10
First Officer€73,000€95,000€120,000
Captain€155,000€200,000€250,000

Salary Progression

First Officer

Year 1
€73,000
Year 5
€95,000
Year 10
€120,000

Captain

Year 1
€155,000
Year 5
€200,000
Year 10
€250,000

Benefits & Perks

Free travel (Star Alliance)
Health insurance
Pension
Profit sharing
Training academy

Fleet Types

A319A320A321A330A340A350A380B747B777B787

5 pilot bases worldwide

Requirements & Career

Minimum Flight Hours

1,500

Type Rating Provided

Yes

Career Progression

Slow

Unionized

Yes

Quality of Life Rating

4/5

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

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Lufthansa pilot make?

A First Officer at Lufthansa earns €73,000 in year 1, rising to €120,000 by year 10. Captains earn €155,000 initially, reaching €250,000 at year 10.

Is Lufthansa hiring pilots in 2026?

Yes, Lufthansa is actively hiring pilots in 2026. Minimum flight hours required: 1,500.

What are the minimum hours to fly for Lufthansa?

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

Does Lufthansa provide type rating training?

Yes, Lufthansa provides type rating training for new hires on their fleet types: A319, A320, A321, A330, A340, A350, A380, B747, B777, B787.

What is the career progression like at Lufthansa?

Career progression at Lufthansa is rated as "Slow". Pilots are unionized, which provides structured seniority-based advancement. Quality of life is rated 4/5.

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