How to Become a Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers in California
Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers in California earn a median salary of $321,460/year, which is 42% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~8.1%. After taxes and rent, a airline pilots, copilots, and flight engineers takes home approximately $15,417/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.
What a airline pilots, copilots, and flight engineers can afford in California
Becoming a airline pilots, copilots, and flight engineers in California
Meet education requirements
Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers positions in California typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many airline pilots, copilots, and flight engineers positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for airline pilots, copilots, and flight engineerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 9,890 airline pilots, copilots, and flight engineers. The highest concentrations are in San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad and Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom.
Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $206K | $/hr | 180 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $196K | $/hr | 70 |
Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers salary range in California
Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a airline pilots, copilots, and flight engineers make in California?▼
The median airline pilots, copilots, and flight engineers salary in California is $321,460 per year ($null/hr). This is 42% above the national median of $226,600. Salaries range from $127,230 to $0.
What are the requirements to become a airline pilots, copilots, and flight engineers in California?▼
Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers positions in California typically require No formal educational credential. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a airline pilots, copilots, and flight engineers afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $321,460, a airline pilots, copilots, and flight engineers in California would take home approximately $16,829/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 8.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for airline pilots, copilots, and flight engineers in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for airline pilots, copilots, and flight engineers in California are San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad ($205,650), Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom ($195,730). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for airline pilots, copilots, and flight engineers?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 8.1%. On a $321,460 salary, this means roughly $26,033/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.