FedEx Corp, one of the largest and most prominent courier and logistics companies globally, has also established a division for air cargo called FedEx Express.
Many readers looking for a well-paid pilot job have been writing to us to ask about FedEx cargo pilot salaries. Here is what we gathered from our market research.
In this article:
How Much Does A FedEx Pilot Make?
The estimate varies across the plane type and number of flight hours during a bid period. Nevertheless, you can expect to earn $75,000 after your first year as a first officer and $227,000 as a captain. These numbers rise to $203,000 and $280,000 in your 15th year, respectively.
To be more specific:
| Year 1 | Year 5 | Year 15 | |
| First Officer | $75,000 | $165,000 | $203,000 |
| Captain | $227,000 | $257,000 | $280,000 |
On another note, FedEx offers pilots a guaranteed minimum number of 74 hours they will be paid each month, often referred to as a “monthly guarantee.” Specifically, they will be compensated for 74 flight hours each month regardless of whether they actually fly that many hours.
Their reserve guarantee works the same way. Even if a pilot is on standby or reserve duty (i.e., available to fly if needed but not actively flying), they will still receive the core compensation.
Besides the highly competitive average salary, there is an entire benefits package to consider, including:
- Flexible schedules
- Space-available traveling
- Life insurance
- Health insurance
- Personal/family accident insurance
- Daily allowance when traveling or working away from home base locations.
What Are The Top 10 Highest Paying Cities For FedEx Pilot Jobs?
According to Zip Recruiter, as of January 25th, 2024, San Mateo easily tops the list, with Richmond and Bellevue falling closely behind. All three beat the salary average by a large margin (approximately 21 to 24%).
Hence, there will be immense opportunities for both career and financial advancements if you consider relocating to these regions.
| City | An Hour | A Week | A Month | A Year |
| San Mateo, CA | $78.39 | $3,135 | $13,586 | $163,043 |
| Richmond, CA | $77.45 | $3,098 | $13,424 | $161,096 |
| Bellevue, WA | $76.31 | $3,052 | $13,226 | $158,718 |
| Santa Clara, CA | $74.02 | $2,960 | $12,830 | $153,969 |
| Pasadena, CA | $73.21 | $2,928 | $12,690 | $152,284 |
| San Diego, CA | $73.07 | $2,922 | $12,665 | $151,982 |
| Washington, DC | $72.56 | $2,902 | $12,577 | $150,926 |
| Federal Way, WA | $72.52 | $2,900 | $12,570 | $150,843 |
| Stockton, CA | $72.37 | $2,894 | $12,543 | $150,526 |
| Belgrade, MT | $72.31 | $2,892 | $12,533 | $150,402 |
What Are The Requirements to Become A FedEx Pilot?
1. General
- English proficiency
- Leadership ability
- Communication skills
- Timely and accurate decision-making (especially when involving error and threat mitigation strategies)
- Keen attention to small details
- Availability during the night or day, including holidays and weekends
- Reliable and punctual regular attendance
- Valid passport & other travel documentation
- Optional: Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited university or college
2. Regulatory (DOT, TSA, FCC, and FAA)
- Completing pre-employment drug tests
- Successful completion of PRIA (Pilot Record Improvement Act) evaluation
- Radiotelephone Operator Permit
- ATP (Airline Transport Pilot) Cert
- Current First Class Medical Cert
3. Flight Hours
- 1500 hours of flight experience in fixed-wing aircraft (including all types of non-rotary-wing models).
- 500 hours of Pilot-in-Command (PIC) (*) time in:
– Jet aircraft (1000 hours is optional but preferred)
– Turbo-prop, multi-engine aircraft (12,500 pounds of takeoff weight)
– Turbo-prop, single-engine aircraft
(*) Hours PIC in aircraft refers to the time when a pilot is the sole manipulator of the controls. They are responsible for the aircraft’s safety and operation during this period.
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Some Extra Training Tips
For Ground Schools
- Do not just memorize the fundamental principles. You should strive to truly understand the underlying concepts of aerodynamics, aircraft systems, navigation, meteorology, and regulations.
- Flashcards and mnemonics can be helpful for memorizing technical terms and procedures.
- Look for real-world examples of the concepts you are learning and discuss them with your instructors or study group.
- A smart learner would take advantage of online resources. Practice tests, interactive tutorials, aviation forums, etc., can truly supplement your learning.
During Flights
- Always be aware of your surroundings and airspace during flight.
- Everyone makes mistakes during training, so do not be too fixated on them. Instead, analyze each mistake to draw out helpful lessons from them. Most importantly, remind yourself not to repeat them in the future.
- Familiarity with emergency procedures is key to successfully handling unexpected situations in the air.
- Do not leave communication skills behind. Clear, concise exchanges with your instructor and other pilots are pivotal in safety and teamwork.
FAQs
How do you apply?
Create your profile here. FedEx Express will send you an email and further instructions if your profile is eventually selected.
Will FedEx Express provide pilot applicants with work visa sponsorships?
No. Any applicant of non-US nationality must obtain a Permanent Resident Card beforehand for employment.
Conclusion
FedEx’s pilot pay scale is quite competitive; hence, there are understandably a lot of certificate and experience requirements to fulfill.
And since non-US applicants do not receive any work visa support from the brand, remember to get a Permanent Resident Card before applying. Write to us if you have more questions.
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