Discover the lucrative world of helicopter piloting! Learn 8 ways helicopter pilots get paid, from commercial flying and aerial tours to medical transport and search and rescue operations. Explore the various career paths and salary ranges, and find out how to turn your passion for flying into a high-paying career as a helicopter pilot.
Helicopter pilots are highly skilled professionals who operate helicopters for a variety of purposes, including transportation, medical evacuation, search and rescue, and tourism. As with any profession, the salary of a helicopter pilot can vary depending on factors such as location, industry, experience, and type of aircraft flown. In this article, we will explore eight ways helicopter pilots can get paid, providing an in-depth look at the different career paths and compensation packages available.
1. Commercial Helicopter Pilot
Commercial helicopter pilots fly for companies that offer helicopter services to the public, such as sightseeing tours, charter flights, and cargo transport. They can earn an average annual salary ranging from $50,000 to over $100,000, depending on the specific job and location.
Salary Breakdown:
- Starting salary: around $40,000 per year
- Experienced salary: around $70,000 per year
- Senior salary: around $100,000 per year
2. Offshore Helicopter Pilot
Offshore helicopter pilots fly personnel and cargo to and from offshore oil rigs and platforms. This type of flying requires specialized training and can be highly lucrative, with average annual salaries ranging from $80,000 to over $150,000.
Salary Breakdown:
- Starting salary: around $60,000 per year
- Experienced salary: around $100,000 per year
- Senior salary: around $150,000 per year
3. Air Ambulance Helicopter Pilot
Air ambulance helicopter pilots fly medical patients to and from hospitals and medical facilities. This type of flying requires specialized training and can be highly rewarding, with average annual salaries ranging from $60,000 to over $120,000.
Salary Breakdown:
- Starting salary: around $50,000 per year
- Experienced salary: around $80,000 per year
- Senior salary: around $120,000 per year
4. Flight Instructor
Flight instructors teach student pilots the skills they need to become licensed helicopter pilots. This type of flying requires specialized training and can be a fulfilling career path, with average annual salaries ranging from $40,000 to over $80,000.
Salary Breakdown:
- Starting salary: around $30,000 per year
- Experienced salary: around $50,000 per year
- Senior salary: around $80,000 per year
5. Corporate Helicopter Pilot
Corporate helicopter pilots fly executives and other corporate personnel for companies that own or lease helicopters. This type of flying requires a high level of professionalism and can be highly lucrative, with average annual salaries ranging from $70,000 to over $150,000.
Salary Breakdown:
- Starting salary: around $50,000 per year
- Experienced salary: around $90,000 per year
- Senior salary: around $150,000 per year
6. Tour Helicopter Pilot
Tour helicopter pilots fly tourists over scenic landscapes and popular destinations. This type of flying requires specialized training and can be a fun and rewarding career path, with average annual salaries ranging from $40,000 to over $80,000.
Salary Breakdown:
- Starting salary: around $30,000 per year
- Experienced salary: around $50,000 per year
- Senior salary: around $80,000 per year
7. Search and Rescue Helicopter Pilot
Search and rescue helicopter pilots fly missions to locate and rescue people in distress, often in remote or hard-to-reach areas. This type of flying requires specialized training and can be highly rewarding, with average annual salaries ranging from $50,000 to over $100,000.
Salary Breakdown:
- Starting salary: around $40,000 per year
- Experienced salary: around $70,000 per year
- Senior salary: around $100,000 per year
8. Military Helicopter Pilot
Military helicopter pilots fly helicopters for the armed forces, often in combat or combat-support roles. This type of flying requires specialized training and can be highly challenging, with average annual salaries ranging from $40,000 to over $100,000.
Salary Breakdown:
- Starting salary: around $30,000 per year
- Experienced salary: around $60,000 per year
- Senior salary: around $100,000 per year
Helicopter Pilot Image Gallery
We hope this article has provided valuable insights into the various ways helicopter pilots can get paid. Whether you're just starting out in your career or looking to transition into a new role, understanding the different compensation packages and career paths available can help you make informed decisions and achieve your goals.