Air Canada pilots have seen a significant salary increase in recent years, thanks to a newly ratified four-year collective agreement between the airline and the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA). This deal, which came into effect in 2024, includes a nearly 42% wage hike over its duration. The agreement aims to bring Air Canada pilots’ salaries more in line with their U.S. counterparts, making the profession more competitive and attractive.
Salary Structure in 2025
The salary of an Air Canada pilot varies based on factors like experience, rank, and aircraft type.
Newly hired First Officers, who generally work around 75 flight hours per month, can expect starting salaries ranging from CAD $75,700 to $134,000 annually. This number grows considerably within the first five years, with pilots seeing steady pay raises.
Captains with extensive experience, especially those flying wide-body aircraft like the Boeing 777, can earn more than CAD $367,000 per year. These figures position Air Canada’s pilots among the higher-paid professionals in the Canadian aviation industry.
Additional Benefits and Work-Life Balance
Beyond base salaries, Air Canada provides a robust benefits package. Pilots are enrolled in a defined benefit pension plan, ensuring financial stability after retirement. They also participate in an annual incentive program that rewards individual and company-wide performance.
One of the most attractive perks is the generous travel benefits extended to pilots and their families, which continue even post-retirement. The agreement also prioritizes work-life balance by improving scheduling structures to allow for adequate rest periods, a crucial factor in aviation safety.
Industry Trends and Future Outlook
The aviation industry has been facing a global pilot shortage, pushing airlines to enhance their compensation and benefits to attract and retain talent. Air Canada’s proactive approach in revising salaries ensures it remains competitive in hiring new pilots while maintaining job satisfaction among current employees.
As of early 2025, the airline has projected strong financial performance, expecting adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) between CAD $3.4 billion and $3.8 billion. This optimistic forecast is largely driven by increased international travel and a resurgence in business bookings, especially to the Asia Pacific region.
Conclusion
Air Canada’s recent salary restructuring marks a significant step in making the airline a more desirable employer for pilots. By aligning pay scales with industry standards and addressing quality-of-life concerns, Air Canada aims to maintain a satisfied and motivated workforce, ensuring operational excellence and long-term success.