We have seen an increase in pilots sharing their end of year paystubs online. Let me tell you why I think this is a bad idea with both good and bad intentions. Talking Points: What pilots really make https://www.bls.gov/ooh/transportation-and-material-moving/airline-and-commercial-pilots.htm#tab-5 $239,200 or more scheduled air transportation 2024 stats That puts you in the top 10% of commercial pilots I will have a breakdown in more detail later. Why you should not share your paystub online or anywhere else. 1. Personal & financial data exposure Even "redacted" stubs can reveal: Employee number Airline or base Pay rate, longevity, equipment, or status Deductions, benefits, retirement contributions That info can be used for identity theft, phishing, or targeted scams. 2. Contractual or company policy issues Some airlines discourage or prohibit sharing internal documents. Even if pay rates are public in the contract, the actual paystub is an internal record. Back in the day you couldn't even file for food stamps or other government assistance. 3. Context gets lost fast Pilot pay is complicated: Per diem vs block vs credit International vs Domestic pay Training pay vs line flying Vacation, sick, premium, or soft pay Reserve vs line holder A screenshot can spark misinformation, jealousy, or unrealistic expectations, especially for aspiring pilots. 4. Online permanence Once it's out there, it's out there. Screenshots get reposted without context—sometimes years later when contracts or rates have changed. Book of the Month: The Millionaire Next Door: The Surprising Secrets of America's Wealthy https://amzn.to/4jqVXKx 5. What pilots really make Starving CFI - 30k to 60k a year Regional pilot - 50k to 100k as an FO 120 to 200k or more as a Captain Major airline- Normally around 100k but can be as low as 50k for first year. Some second year FO making 200k Junior captain around 200k 300k narrow body to 400k tor wide body. Deep dive video coming later Questions: feedback@aviationcareerspodcast.com Mentorship: https://valeri-aviation.thinkific.com/courses/group-career-coaching Use the coupon code "CoachItForward" for the first month free. One-On-One Coaching: https://valeri-aviation.thinkific.com/courses/career-coaching Special: One month of free access when you sign up for one-on-one coaching.
