In this article I’m going to break down SkyWest pilot pay and show you what sets SkyWest airlines apart from many of the other regional airlines in the United States.
SkyWest is an independent regional airline that has partnerships with several airlines — including Delta, United, American, and Alaska. This distinguishes them from many other regional airlines like Envoy, that only fly for their parent company.
Another unique aspect of SkyWest is that they do not adhere to union representation. Instead their pilots are organized under an independent association called SkyWest Airline Pilots Association.
SkyWest is also known for their focus on pilot career development. They’ve implemented programs to support pilots in advancing their careers
Now that you know the basics of SkyWest, let’s take a look at SkyWest pilot pay.
SkyWest Airlines Pilot Salary
SkyWest pilot pay will vary based on the number of hours you fly during each bid period. They have a 75 hour monthly guarantee. Given this, the salary below is only a rough estimate of annual pay based on available sources.
How Did We Get These Numbers
All data used below is pulled from the latest SkyWest pilot contract. These numbers were updated for 2024. The pay estimates below don’t include any per diem, profit sharing, override pay, or 401k contributions which will increase overall compensation considerably.
SkyWest First Officer Pay
The SkyWest first officer salary varies depending on how many hours they’re flying each month and their years with the company. Here’s a detailed breakdown.
Total pay range for SkyWest First Officers: $86,000 to $102,000
| Years of Experience | Estimated Annual Pay (80 hours per month) |
|---|---|
| Year 1 | $87,264 |
| Year 5 | $96,374 |
| Year 10 | $101,808 |
SkyWest Captain Pay
For a regional airline, a SkyWest captain salary can be quite considerable. SkyWest is known for being one of the best run airlines in the country and their captain pay is competitive among regional airlines in the US.
Total pay range for SkyWest Captains: $130,000 to $235,000.
| Years of Experience | Estimated Annual Pay (80 hours per month) |
|---|---|
| Year 1 | $135,744 |
| Year 5 | $154,118 |
| Year 12 | $186,259 |
Calculate Your Potential SkyWest Pilot Earnings
We’ve put together this simple calculator to give you an estimate of how much you could earn as a SkyWest pilot. This was put together using the 2024 pay scale from the SkyWest Airlines.
SkyWest Pilot Benefits
As a SkyWest pilot, not only do you get a competitive salary but also a comprehensive benefits package that enhances your overall compensation significantly.
Health and Retirement Benefits
SkyWest offes a range of health benefits and retirement plans. Like most companies, you’ll have access to medical, dental, and vision insurance, ensuring that you and your family are covered.
SkyWest also provides an industry-leading 401(k) program, making it easier for you to plan and save for retirement.
Travel Benefits Unique to SkyWest
As you’d expect, you receive flight benefits with SkyWest. But what really sets them apart from many other airlines is you’ll have the ability to fly not only on SkyWest’s flights but also on those of its major partner airlines.
So you can get flight benefits on Delta, United, and American. This gives you incredible access to flights just about anywhere in the world.
Where are SkyWest’s Bases?
SkyWest pilot bases cover the entire country. They have different bases for each jet with some bases flying both jets. SkyWest also has more bases than just about any other airline.
ERJ Bases
- Austin, TX – AUS (coming June 2024)
- Boise, ID – BOI
- Chicago, IL – ORD
- Denver, CO – DEN
- Los Angeles, CA – LAX
- Houston, TX – IAH
- Minneapolis, MN – MSP
- Portland, OR – PDX
- Phoenix, AZ – PHX
- Salt Lake City, UT – SLC
- San Diego, CA – SAN
- San Francisco, CA – SFO
- Seattle, WA – SEA
CRJ Bases
- Atlanta, GA – ATL
- Chicago, IL – ORD
- Colorado Springs, CO – COS
- Dallas, TX – DFW
- Denver, CO – DEN
- Detroit, MI – DTW
- Fesno, CA – FAT
- Los Angeles, CA – LAX
- Houston, TX – IAH
- Minneapolis, MN – MSP
- Palm Springs, CA – PSP
- Phoenix, AZ – PHX
- Salt Lake City, UT – SLC
- Tuscan, AZ – TUS
- San Francisco, CA – SFO
What airplanes are in the SkyWest Airlines Fleet?
- Bombardier CRJ-200
- Bombardier CRJ-700
- Bombardier CRJ-900
- Embraer ERJ-170
Learn more about commercial aircraft in our guide on how fast does a plane go.
What are the Hiring Requirements for SkyWest Pilots?
For SkyWest airlines pilots there are two sets of requirements, or minimum qualifications. There’s the regulatory requirements set by the FAA, TSA, DOT, and even FCC. Then there are the individual airline requirements for the job.
Regulatory Requirements:
- Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Certificate
- Current First Class Medical Certificate
- Radiotelephone Operator’s Permit
- Secure Identification Display Area (SIDA) Badge eligibility
- Successful completion of pre-employment drug test
- Successful completion of Pilot Records Improvement Act (PRIA) evaluation
- 1500 hours fixed wing flight time
SkyWest Air Lines Pilot Job Requirements:
- At least 21 years of age
- Have a current passport
- Be a U.S. Citizen or show proof of right to work in the U.S.
- English Proficiency Endorsement (EPE)
- Be at least instrument current
- Hod an FCC Radio License
- Possess a current first-class medical
- Hold a Commercial License
- Be willing to rescind seniority with current carrier
Ever wonder, how much do pilots make? Check out our salary guide for every airline.
How Do I Apply for a SkyWest Pilot Job?
If you meet all of the qualifications listed above you can visit the SkyWest website. SkyWest also offers a career path, SkyWest Pathway Program, for aspiring pilots to join their company as soon as possible.
In conclusion, understanding the SkyWest pilot salary and its components is essential for those considering a career with SkyWest Airlines.
- About the Author
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Brian is an experienced digital marketer who joined Thrust Flight in 2022 as the Chief Marketing Officer. He discovered a passion for aviation at 10 when he went for his first flight in a Piper Cherokee and enjoys helping others discover a career path as a professional pilot. He is an experienced marketing consultant helping brands with a variety of marketing initiatives. Brian received a bachelor’s degree in Communications from Brigham Young University.