Singapore Airlines Pilot Salary in 2025

Singapore Airlines remains one of the most respected global carriers, and in 2025, the airline operates with a blend of modern aircraft, structured pay scales, and a meticulous approach to flight operations. Pilots tend to describe the airline as disciplined but fair, with a strong safety culture and predictable progression.

Salaries remain among the most competitive in the Asia-Pacific region, helped by Singapore’s stable aviation environment and the airline’s long-haul network. While the airline is demanding in its expectations, pilots generally find that the reward structure and the quality of training comfortably justify the workload.

Here is a look at how much pilots with Singapore Airlines earn, the benefits they enjoy, and what is required to be considered by the carrier for a job.

Singapore Airlines Pilot Salary

Singapore Airlines First Officer Salary

First officers at Singapore Airlines in 2025 usually earn between SG$94,000 and SG$108,000 per year when newly promoted, with yearly totals rising as they begin operating longer routes and accumulating more duty hours. The basic salary is supplemented by long-haul allowances, night-stop pay, and other variable components, making the role financially stable even in months when flight hours vary slightly.

The airline’s wide-body network naturally supports higher earning potential early in a pilot’s career.

As first officers progress through the ranks, their total yearly income typically increases to SG$150,000 to SG$195,000, with differences depending on roster patterns, seasonal operational demands, and fleet assignment. Those on longer sectors, such as Europe or North America, usually earn more due to extended duty periods and international allowances.

Senior first officers may also benefit from additional responsibilities, which can provide small but consistent salary enhancements.

Singapore Airlines Captain Salary

Captains at Singapore Airlines earn between SG$235,000 and SG$250,000 per year upon initial upgrade. The airline’s long-haul operations contribute significantly to earnings, as captains frequently operate extended international sectors with generous allowances and duty-related pay.

The nature of SIA’s wide-body flying means most captains enjoy a relatively stable monthly income, supported by predictable scheduling and consistent demand across the network.

With increased seniority, yearly captain earnings typically range from SGD 285,000 to SGD 355,000, depending on the fleet type, route mix, and any additional duties, such as training or checking. Senior captains flying the A350-900ULR or high-frequency long-haul routes often reach the upper end of the range because of accumulated allowances and longer rostered blocks.

The airline’s structured seniority system ensures steady progression, providing pilots with clear long-term financial expectations.

Benefits Enjoyed by Singapore Airlines Pilots

Over and above a very competitive salary, Singapore Airlines offers the following benefits to all its pilots.

• Travel Benefits – Pilots receive discounted and standby travel for themselves and eligible family members, allowing access to Singapore Airlines’ global network. These benefits remain among the most valued perks due to the airline’s extensive long-haul destinations.
• Medical & Insurance Coverage – Comprehensive medical insurance, dental support, and company-funded health assessments help Singapore Airlines pilots maintain their Class 1 medical certificates. This coverage provides peace of mind and long-term career support.
• Extra Allowances – Long-haul allowances, night-stop payments, and duty-related compensation form a significant part of monthly earnings for SIA pilots. These payments accumulate steadily and can vary depending on seasonal scheduling.
• Retirement Support – Singapore Airlines contributes to structured retirement plans that help pilots build long-term financial stability. These programmes are especially beneficial for pilots who remain with the airline for most of their careers.
• Career Development – Singapore Airlines supports continuous training opportunities, including command upgrade training, instructor roles, and cross-fleet transitions. Pilots benefit from a clear career path supported by high-quality training facilities.
• Wellbeing Support – Fatigue-management systems, peer-support networks, and well-being programmes are available to all of SIA’s pilots whenever needed. These systems aim to maintain mental health and operational safety.

What Aircraft do Singapore Airlines Pilots Fly?

Singapore Airlines has a mix of Airbus and Boeing airplanes in its fleet. Here is a full breakdown of their aircraft types.

• Airbus A350-900 – 58
• Airbus A350-900ULR – 7
• Airbus A380-800 – 12
• Boeing 737 MAX 8 – 19
• Boeing 777-300ER – 22
• Boeing 787-10 – 26

Besides more than 120 existing planes, the airline has the following on order.

• Boeing 737 MAX 8 – 10
• Boeing 777-9 – 31
• Boeing 787-10 – 5

Requirements to be a Singapore Airlines Pilot

Singapore Airlines pilot candidates are required to fulfil the following requirements for direct-entry jobs advertised by the carrier. The flying hours depend on the vacancy and the experience the company is looking to fill.

• Possesses a valid Class 1 Medical Certificate, recognised or can be validated by the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS).
• Holds a valid Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL).
• Minimum of 1500 total multi-crew flying hours on any passenger category jet aircraft (2500 total flight hours – preferred).
• Able to speak and understand English with ICAO English Level 4 for inflight radio-telephony communications (ICAO 5 is preferred).
• Minimum height requirement of 1.62m to carry out safety and emergency procedures on board.

Hiring Process

Singapore Airlines has the following steps in its hiring process for pilots.

1. Online Application – Candidates begin by applying through the Singapore Airlines careers portal. This includes copies of licences, medical certificates, flying records, and any additional training documents. The airline also expects a full declaration of flight hours and recency.
2. Document Screening – All applications are reviewed by the recruitment team to ensure pilots meet minimum entry criteria, such as licence requirements, total flying experience, and the validity of their medical certification. Only candidates who meet the baseline standard proceed to the next stage.
3. Initial Aptitude Testing – Pilots are invited to complete online aptitude assessments designed to measure problem-solving, multi-tasking, and basic flight-related reasoning. These tests help determine a candidate’s ability to cope with the cognitive demands of commercial flying.
4. Flight Simulator Evaluation – Successful applicants are then scheduled for a simulator assessment. This phase evaluates aircraft handling, situational awareness, teamwork, and the ability to respond to unexpected situations. It is one of the most critical stages, as the airline places strong emphasis on real-time decision-making.
5. Technical and HR Interview – Those who pass the simulator session attend interviews with senior training captains and HR representatives. The technical interview reviews a candidate’s understanding of aircraft systems, operational procedures, and general aviation knowledge. The HR segment focuses on communication skills, professionalism, and alignment with the airline’s values.
6. Medical Examination and Background Checks – Before receiving an offer, candidates must complete a full medical assessment and undergo background screening. This includes verifying training records, previous employment, and licence authenticity.

Bottom Line

Singapore Airlines maintains one of the most consistent and competitive pilot-salary structures in Asia. With a modern fleet, predictable progression, and strong long-haul allowances, both first officers and captains benefit from stable earnings and long-term career development.

The airline remains demanding in training and operational standards, but the compensation, benefits, and prestige of flying for Singapore’s national carrier make the role appealing for pilots seeking a long-term, structured career.

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