Mesa Airlines Pilot Careers & Salary: A Comprehensive Guide
Based in Phoenix, Arizona, Mesa Airlines flies a fleet of narrow-body regional jets, specifically the CRJ-900 and the Embraer 175. They operate these flights on behalf of United Airlines, with planes branded as United Express.
- Explore Mesa Airlines Job Opportunities: If you’re considering applying for job openings at Mesa Airlines, taking the time to understand the airline’s hiring requirements and compensation structure is important. With this knowledge, you will be able to make informed decisions and optimize your career trajectory within the aviation industry.
- Understanding Compensation Factors: Mesa Airlines’ pay structure for captain and first officer positions is determined by a combination of skills, experience, and flight hours logged. To ensure you make the most of your aviation career, it’s essential to understand how these factors impact wages. By comparing entry-level pilot salaries with the industry average, you can acquire insights into the benefits and opportunities that come with Mesa Airlines careers.
- Unveiling Pilot Earnings: The question of “How much do pilots earn?” is often at the forefront of applicants’ minds. Delving into the specifics of pilot compensation at Mesa Airlines is an essential part of your research process. Beyond the monetary aspect, these positions offer a range of benefits that contribute to the overall allure of pursuing a career with Mesa Airlines.
- Comprehensive Research for Informed Choices: When considering a career with Mesa Airlines, it’s not just about the paycheck. Thoroughly researching everything from hiring requirements to income is essential. By gaining a comprehensive understanding of the perks and opportunities associated with these aviation roles, you can make well-informed decisions that align with your professional goals. Mesa Airlines careers extend beyond mere job openings, offering a comprehensive and rewarding experience for aspiring pilots.
Mesa Airlines Hiring Requirements Overview
Airline Type: U.S. Regional
Pilots: 1200
Aircraft Type: Bombardier CRJ200; Bombardier CRJ700; Bombardier CRJ900; Embraer E175
Headquarters: Phoenix, Arizona
Hubs:
- Dallas-Fort Worth
- Louisville
- Houston
- Phoenix
- Washington-Dulles
Origin: Founded in 1980, Mesa Airlines now operates on behalf of American Airlines as American Eagle and United Airlines as United Express. The airline provides service to over 110 cities in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Cuba, and the Bahamas.

What are the hiring requirements for Mesa Airlines careers?
Bridge Air Program
Epic Flight Academy students have the opportunity to flow from our training program into the Bridge Air time-building program and receive a guaranteed interview with Mesa Airlines or Republic Airways once they meet the required qualifications.
- Interview at Mesa Airlines with current FAA Private Pilot license
- Earn FAA Commercial pilot license and Multi-Engine rating
First Officer Hiring Requirements
- FAA commercial pilot’s license with multi-engine and instrument ratings
- 50 hours of multi-engine fixed-wing flight time (may be reduced to 25)
- 200 hours cross-country flight time
- 250 hours fixed-wing PIC
- 100 hours of cross-country as PIC
- 100 hours of night flying
- 75 hours of instrument time (actual or simulated – 50 hours must be in airplanes)
- 25 hours of night PIC
- Must be at least 21 years of age and finish ATP written prior to start of New Hire Training
- Total flight time minimums:
- 1,500 hours
- 1,250 hours – with qualifying 2- or 4-year aviation university program with 30 aviation hours
- 1,000 hours – with qualifying 2- or 4-year aviation university program with 60 aviation hours
- 750 hours – military flight training graduates
Additionally, candidates must have the following qualifications:
- Current FAA first class medical certificate
- Current passport
- IFR Currency
- FCC Radio Operator’s Permit
- Ability to legally work in the United States
- Ability to travel in and out of the United States
United Airlines Career Path Program (CPP)
Mesa Airlines pilots in the United Airlines CPP secure United Airlines hiring consideration.
United CPP Qualifications:
- High School Diploma or GED at time of application; Bachelor’s degree or equivalent required before being hired by United Airlines
- Actively fly a minimum of one year with Mesa Airlines
- Earn minimum of 1,000 Pilot-in-Command hours or 3,000 total hours flying for Mesa Airlines
- Successful CPP interview with United Airlines
- Successfully complete United Airlines job fit assessment
- Allow United Airlines to access Mesa Airlines employment details
- Complete minimum of one Mesa Airlines initial qualification evaluation and one continuing qualification evaluation
- Successfully complete required United Airlines professional development process and job fit assessment
- Pass United Airlines drug screen and background check
- Receive hiring recommendation from United CPP Administrator and the United Airlines Pilot Selection Board

So, exactly how much can I earn as a Mesa pilot?
Here is a sampling of Mesa pilot hourly wages. Pilot pay changes based on various factors, such as type of plane, years of experience, etc.
| First Officer | Captain |
| Starting: $101/hr | Starting: $151/hr |
| Average: $111/hr | Average: $183/hr |
| Top: $135/hr | Top: $217/hr |
Bonuses
Mesa Airlines offers hiring bonuses, such as a $100,000 sign-on bonus for Direct-Entry Captains and other incentive programs. Bonuses vary by position and experience level.
Key bonus programs often include:
- Direct-Entry Captain Program: Large sign-on bonuses often exceeding $100k, along with high pay rates.
- First Officer Incentives: Previously, $30,000 for new hire pilots.
- Referral Bonuses: Programs have offered up to $20,000 for referring a Direct-Entry Captain.
Note: Sign-on bonuses and incentives are subject to change, so we recommend confirming with current hiring managers.
Homepage: Mesa Airlines
Contact Information
Email: [email protected]
Mesa Careers: Overview
We have tried to provide the most accurate information regarding hiring requirements for commercial airlines. However, we also encourage you to contact the airline you’re interested in working for directly to verify employment requirements. Learn how much you can earn as a pilot, and learn exactly how to become a pilot. We wish you great success as an airline pilot and hope you land your dream job! Before you fill out that job application, you will need flight training. If you are interested in pursuing a flying career with Mesa Airlines and are interested in receiving your training at any of our campuses, please contact us today!
Airlines! If you have an update for your hiring requirements, please submit them to us! Thank you for helping us keep your information current!
Join the Forum Discussion on Mesa Airlines Below!
Disclaimer: Epic Aviation, Inc. does not verify, endorse, or approve any reviews, complaints, housing listings, or other public content. All content is provided "as is," without inspection or warranty. We do not screen users or listings and assume no responsibility for any communication, meeting, or transaction. Use is at your own risk. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.
