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Pilot Salary at TAP Air Portugal

By Renzo, CPL · Updated March 2026

Portugal's flag carrier with unique routes to Brazil and Portuguese-speaking Africa. Living in Lisbon is a huge lifestyle draw.

Salary Breakdown

PositionYear 1Year 5Year 10
First Officer€48,000€65,000€80,000
Captain€105,000€140,000€170,000

Salary Progression

First Officer

Year 1
€48,000
Year 5
€65,000
Year 10
€80,000

Captain

Year 1
€105,000
Year 5
€140,000
Year 10
€170,000

Benefits & Perks

Free travel (Star Alliance)
Pension
Lisbon lifestyle
Brazil/Africa routes

Fleet Types

A320neoA321neoA330neo

2 pilot bases worldwide

Requirements & Career

Minimum Flight Hours

1,500

Type Rating Provided

Yes

Career Progression

Average

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 TAP Air Portugal pilot make?

A First Officer at TAP Air Portugal earns €48,000 in year 1, rising to €80,000 by year 10. Captains earn €105,000 initially, reaching €170,000 at year 10.

Is TAP Air Portugal hiring pilots in 2026?

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

What are the minimum hours to fly for TAP Air Portugal?

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

Does TAP Air Portugal provide type rating training?

Yes, TAP Air Portugal provides type rating training for new hires on their fleet types: A320neo, A321neo, A330neo.

What is the career progression like at TAP Air Portugal?

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

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