February 2025

Airline Pilot Salary: Comprehensive Breakdown & Industry Comparison 2025

Epic Flight Academy students put in a lot of effort to become airline pilots. They make connections while at flight school that will stay with them throughout their careers. But the real question is… how much will they earn? How much do pilots make? A short answer is the median airline pilot salary for 2024 was $226,600. Like other professions, pilot salary is not equal across the board. Pilot salaries vary annually among airlines, the type of aircraft, and even flying routes. For example, salary depends on various factors, such as pilot credentials, experience, job title, and pilot union agreements. Quick Navigation to Pilot Salary Introduction Average Airline Pilot Salary Major Airlines Pilot Pay Regional Airlines Pilot Pay Cargo & … Read more

What is a Squawk Box in Aviation?

A “squawk box” is an essential piece of aviation communications. Its technical name is a transponder. It’s a radio frequency identification (RFID) device that sends a signal, or “squawk,” to air traffic control (ATC) radar systems. The squawk helps controllers identify each radar blip as a specific flight. It is a critical tool that communicates between an aircraft and ATC. The transponder helps identify the aircraft, transmits its altitude, and alerts ATC to emergencies. Both pilots and controllers must understand how a squawk box works and its unique role in maintaining safe flight operations. In this article, I’ll share the origin and functions of a squawk box, the meaning of squawk codes, and practical applications. I’ll also include related aviation … Read more

How to Become a Commercial Pilot in 2025: The 16-Step Guide

Quick Navigation to Becoming a Commercial Pilot Introduction How Long Does It Take? Cost and Other Factors So, what are the 16 steps? How do you become a commercial pilot flying a Boeing 787 as a Captain for a major airline? This 16-step guide is for you. Perhaps you’ve thought about flying as a hobby, but becoming a commercial pilot is actually a great career choice. What exactly defines a commercial pilot? Simply put, a commercial pilot is someone who has been approved by the FAA to charge for pilot services. Check Your Pilot Training Eligibility! Types of Commercial Pilots Whether you become a captain for Emirates, a fighter pilot as a U.S. Air Force veteran, or a corporate jet … Read more