Pilot Salary at Alaska Airlines
By Renzo, CPL · Updated March 2026
Highly rated for quality of life, especially for West Coast-based pilots. Consistently wins best airline awards for service.
Salary Breakdown
| Position | Year 1 | Year 5 | Year 10 |
|---|---|---|---|
| First Officer | $80,000 | $155,000 | $185,000 |
| Captain | $220,000 | $300,000 | $355,000 |
Salary Progression
First Officer
Captain
Benefits & Perks
Fleet Types
5 pilot bases worldwide
Requirements & Career
Minimum Flight Hours
1,500
Type Rating Provided
Yes
Career Progression
Fast
Unionized
Yes
Quality of Life Rating
Based on schedule flexibility, base locations, commutability, travel benefits, and overall pilot satisfaction.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Alaska Airlines pilot make?
A First Officer at Alaska Airlines earns $80,000 in year 1, rising to $185,000 by year 10. Captains earn $220,000 initially, reaching $355,000 at year 10.
Is Alaska Airlines hiring pilots in 2026?
Yes, Alaska Airlines is actively hiring pilots in 2026. Minimum flight hours required: 1,500.
What are the minimum hours to fly for Alaska Airlines?
Alaska Airlines requires a minimum of 1,500 total flight hours. Type rating training is provided by the airline.
Does Alaska Airlines provide type rating training?
Yes, Alaska Airlines provides type rating training for new hires on their fleet types: B737, E175.
What is the career progression like at Alaska Airlines?
Career progression at Alaska Airlines is rated as "Fast". Pilots are unionized, which provides structured seniority-based advancement. Quality of life is rated 5/5.
Compare With Other North America Airlines
New — Airline Interview Prep
Get Hired at Alaska Airlines
87% of airline applicants fail their first interview. Don't be one of them. 200+ interview questions, HR scenarios, and sim assessment guides.
50% off first month. Cancel anytime. 2,200+ questions included.
Ready to fly for Alaska Airlines?
Start Your ATPL Exam Prep — 50% Off
1,000+ practice questions, study guides, and progress tracking. Everything you need to pass your airline pilot exams.
Join 430+ pilots already studying with Rotate.
Cancel anytime. No commitment.
Related Content
Mesa Airlines Pilot Salary
Full pay scales, benefits, and career progression at Mesa Airlines.
Malaysia Airlines Pilot Salary
Full pay scales, benefits, and career progression at Malaysia Airlines.
Alaska Airlines Recruitment Guide
Application process, requirements, and interview tips.
Pilot Training Cost (USA)
Complete cost breakdown for flight training in the United States.
Free Practice Exam
Test your knowledge with free pilot exam questions.
Related Resources
Complete Pilot Salary Guide
Comprehensive breakdown of pilot pay across all career stages
How to Become a Pilot
Step-by-step guide from zero experience to airline cockpit
All Airline Salaries
Compare pay across 80+ airlines worldwide
Alaska Airlines Recruitment Guide
Application process, requirements, and interview tips