How much do Spirit Airlines pilots make? Spirit Airlines pilots make between $93 and $251 per hour. Captains with more experience can earn salaries up to $300,000 annually.

Factors such as years of experience and the type of aircraft flown significantly impact how much does a Spirit Airlines pilot make in terms of these earnings.

Key Takeaways

• Average annual salary for a Spirit Airlines pilot is $233,000. Captains can make over $300,000 depending on experience and aircraft type.

• First Officers at Spirit Airlines start at $93.35 per hour and go up to $193.71 per hour after 12 years of service.

• Pilots get benefits beyond salary including health insurance, 401(k) plan, unlimited standby travel and performance bonuses.

Spirit Airlines Pilot Salary Overview

Spirit Airlines pilot salary 2025 average is $233,000 but can vary. Type of aircraft and years of experience are factors.

Captains at Spirit can make over $300,000 with experience. Senior pilots get paid more because of their experience and reliability.

Total flight hours logged matters a lot to a pilot’s salary, base pay and overtime earnings. Dedication, experience and continuous learning is the key to become a high earning pilot at Spirit Airlines.

First Officer Pay Scale at Spirit Airlines

Starting as a First Officer at Spirit Airlines is a great entry point with an hourly wage of about $93.35. A solid foundation for your aviation career.

After 12 years of service a First Officer can make around $193.71 an hour. Spirit Airlines values experience and loyalty so this is a good career choice if you’re willing to put in the work.

Captain Pay Scale at Spirit Airlines

Becoming a Captain is a big pay jump from First Officer and starts at $251.59 an hour. Pay increases with seniority and extra flight hours.

With more experience and expertise, Captains can make over $300,000 a year. Spirit Airlines rewards dedication and skill.

Factors Impacting Spirit Airlines Pilot Salaries

Several things affect Spirit Airlines pilot pay, years of experience and time at the company being two of the biggest. More experience means more pay.

So, why do pilots make so much? The answer lies in the level of skill, responsibility, and the extensive training required for their role.

Number of flight hours is another big one. Candidates need 2,000 to 5,000 hours, with 750 hours in turbine or multi engine aircraft to prove they can handle different aircraft and scenarios.

Type of aircraft flown affects pay; bigger aircraft means higher pay. Base location also affects pay and lifestyle.

Benefits Beyond the Salary

Spirit Airlines pilots get various perks beyond the pay, including health insurance options like medical, dental and vision. Aflac supplemental insurance is also available to help with out of pocket costs.

For retirement Spirit Airlines has a 401k savings plan. Pilots also get unlimited standby on all Spirit routes after 6 months of service so they and their families can travel to new destinations for cheap.

Pilots are eligible for buddy passes to share travel benefits with friends or family. Performance bonuses and profit sharing can also increase income. Vacation and sick time is also provided, full time pilots get 40 hours of vacation time a year.

Spirit Airlines Pilot Bases

Spirit Airlines has bases in major cities like Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Detroit, Fort Lauderdale, Houston, Las Vegas, and Orlando for pilots to have different lifestyle options and operational reliability.

A new pilot crew base will open at Newark Liberty International Airport in September 2024 with around 200 pilots. Location of pilot bases affects both operational efficiency and pilot lifestyle and salary.

Spirit Airlines Fleet and Its Impact on Pilot Pay

Spirit Airlines is an all-Airbus airline with A319, A320, A321, A320neo and A321neo. With 202 aircraft, type ratings directly impact pilot pay with larger aircraft generally paying more.

A 737 pilot salary may vary in comparison, as pilots flying Boeing 737s typically earn differently based on aircraft type and experience.

Retiring older models like the A319 and introducing newer ones like the A320neo will improve operational efficiency. Pilots flying larger aircraft like the Airbus A321 make more money and those flying smaller planes make less.

Career Path to Becoming a Spirit Airlines Pilot

To become a Spirit Airlines pilot, candidates must have an Airline Transport Pilot License and at least 1,500 hours of flight time, so lots of flying experience. Becoming an airline pilot takes about 2 years even if you have no experience.

Spirit Airlines conducts an 8- to 12-week training program in Fort Lauderdale for new pilots, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel.

The Spirit Wings Pilot Pathway Program also helps aspiring pilots' transition smoothly into their careers at Spirit Airlines.

Spirit Airlines encourages pilots to progress from First Officer to Captain through structured opportunities, including various pilot positions. Pilots have access to ongoing training and development programs through Spirit U to support their career growth in Spirit careers, including aspiring spirit pilot roles.

Is a Career at Spirit Airlines Right for You?

Being a First Officer at Spirit Airlines has many perks, including valued flight benefits for lots of travel and flexible scheduling so pilots can have a work life balance, it’s a dream job for many.

The work environment at Spirit Airlines is relaxed and fun, that’s why many First Officers say it’s a good quality of life and a supportive and collaborative culture.

How to Apply for a Spirit Airlines Pilot Job

Spirit Airlines is not currently accepting pilot applications so complete your flight training and submit your resume online.

The Talent Acquisition team will reach out to you for next steps in spirit airlines careers. Successful candidates will be invited to an in-person interview to ensure Spirit Airlines chooses the best pilots.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average salary for a Spirit Airlines pilot in 2025?

The average salary for a Spirit Airlines pilot in 2025 is projected to be $233,000. This figure reflects industry trends and expected growth in pilot compensation.

How much can a First Officer at Spirit Airlines earn after twelve years?

A First Officer at Spirit Airlines can earn approximately $193.71 per hour after twelve years of service. This wage reflects the potential for significant earnings in this role.

What are the benefits beyond the salary for Spirit Airlines pilots?

Beyond pay, Spirit Airlines pilots get comprehensive healthcare options, 401(k) retirement plan, unlimited standby travel, buddy passes, performance bonuses and plenty of vacation time. More job satisfaction and financial security.

What qualifications are needed to become a Spirit Airlines pilot?

To become a Spirit Airlines pilot, candidates must hold an Airline Transport Pilot License and have at least 1,500 flight hours. These qualifications ensure that pilots are well-prepared for the demands of flying with the airline.

How can I apply for a pilot job at Spirit Airlines?

To apply for a pilot job at Spirit Airlines, ensure you complete your flight training and submit your resume online, as the Talent Acquisition team will reach out to you for the next steps.