Frontier Airlines (F9) offers a structured and competitive compensation package for its pilots. The average yearly compensation for Frontier Airlines pilots is around $92,958, based on experience and flight hours.
With beginning pay for First Officers about $90,000 and Captains around $181,800, there are plenty of chances for earnings development based on experience and longevity.
While not the top in the industry, Frontier’s compensation package remains competitive among regional airlines and other low-cost carriers.
Frontier Airlines First Officer Salary
Frontier Airlines’ first officers get an annual compensation that reflects their expertise and the airline’s competitive pay structure. As pilots gain expertise, their earnings rise dramatically, making it a lucrative career choice.
Salary Overview
The chart below outlines the wage progression for Frontier Airlines’ First Officers depending on years of experience:
To determine the annual income for Captains at Frontier Airlines based on varying years of experience and a pay guarantee of 75 hours per month, we can use the following hourly rates:
Annual Salary= Hourly Salary × Hours per Month × Months per Year
For 1 year of experience: Annual Salary=202×75×12=181,800.
| Experience Level | Annual Salary ($) |
| 1 | $90,000 |
| 5 | $1,27,800 |
| 12 | $1,61,100 |
- Starting Salary: Approximately $90,000 in the first year.
- Average Salary: Approximately $1,27,800 per year, which is consistent with national rates for airline pilots.
- Top Earners: Can earn up to $1,61,100 by the twelfth year of service.
- Hourly Rate: First Officers’ hourly compensation starts around $100 in the first two years and can reach $142 after five years of service.
- Benefits: In addition to salary, Frontier provides a variety of benefits such as medical insurance, retirement plans, and travel incentives, which contribute to pilots’ overall compensation packages.
Frontier Airlines Captain Salary
Frontier Airlines captains’ annual salaries vary greatly depending on their expertise and tenure with the airline. As pilots advance in their careers, their compensation reflects their increased responsibilities and expertise.
Salary Overview
The following table illustrates the salary progression for Captains at Frontier Airlines based on years of experience:
| Experience Level | Annual Salary ($) |
| 1 | $181,800 |
| 5 | $206,100 |
| 12 | $243,000 |
- Starting Salary: Approximately $181,800 in the first year.
- Average Salary: About $206,100 after several years of service.
- Top Earners: Salaries can exceed $243,000 by year twelve.
- Hourly Rate: The hourly pay for Captains varies significantly based on experience, starting at about $202 in the first year and potentially reaching up to $270 after twelve years.
- Total Compensation: In addition to base salary, Frontier pilots may receive bonuses, profit-sharing, and other performance-based incentives that can enhance their overall earnings.
Frontier Airlines Pilot’s Hourly Salary
Frontier Airlines pays its pilots reasonable salaries that vary depending on experience, rank, and aircraft type. Frontier Airlines’ hourly wages for First Officers and Captains are shown below.
The remuneration for pilots operating the Airbus A320, a common aircraft type for Frontier Airlines, is as follows:
| Role | Starting Hourly Rate | Average Hourly Rate | Top Hourly Rate |
| First Officer | $100 | $148 | $179 |
| Captain | $202 | $231 | $270 |
First Officer Hourly Pay
- Starting Salary: Approximately $100 per hour
- Average Salary: About $148 per hour
- Top Salary: Up to $179 per hour
Captain Hourly Pay
- Starting Salary: Approximately $202 per hour
- Average Salary: About $231 per hour
- Top Salary: Up to $270 per hour
Salary Variations by Experience
Frontier Airlines pilots’ salaries improve with experience. For example, the compensation structure usually appears like this:
First Officer Pay Structure
- Year 1: $100 per hour
- Year 2: $118 per hour
- Year 3: $127 per hour
- Year 4: $134 per hour
Captain Pay Structure
- Year 1: $202 per hour
- Year 2: $219 per hour
- Year 3 and beyond Increases annually based on seniority and performance, reaching approximately $250 per hour for experienced captains.
Note: Additional Compensation
Pilots also receive additional benefits such as:
- Per diem allowances (approximately $2.15/hour)
- Retirement plans (401k with matching contributions)
Factors Influencing the Frontier Airlines Pilot Salary?
Several factors influence Frontier Airlines pilot pay, determining their total compensation package. Understanding these factors is critical for both experienced and prospective pilots.
Key Factors Influencing Pilot Salary
- Seniority: One of the most important considerations is a pilot’s duration of service with Frontier Airlines. As pilots gain experience and tenure, they often receive higher compensation, more flexible schedules, and more prospects for advancement. This institutional practice values loyalty and experience.
- Type of Aircraft: The exact aircraft that a pilot is certified to operate has an impact on their compensation. Pilots who fly larger or more complicated aircraft typically earn more due to the extra expertise and training necessary. For example, flying an Airbus A320 may result in a different pay scale than operating a smaller aircraft.
- Flight Hours: The overall number of flying hours a pilot has accumulated is an important factor in determining their salary. More experienced pilots with more flight hours typically earn higher compensation, reflecting their competence and dependability in the cockpit.
- Rank (Captain vs. First Officer): The pilot’s position has a considerable impact on their compensation. Captains, who have more responsibility and command the aircraft, are paid significantly more than First Officers.
Where are Frontier Airlines Pilot Bases?
Frontier Airlines has many pilot bases across the United States, strategically positioned to assist its growing operations.
As of December 2024, the airline has announced the establishment of new bases as well as the reopening of an existing base, which will improve personnel management and operational efficiency.
Current and Upcoming Pilot Bases
- Denver, Colorado: This facility serves as Frontier Airlines’ principal hub, accommodating a large number of pilots.
- Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas: Another important location, this base serves activities in one of the country’s major air travel sectors.
- Phoenix, Arizona:This base is critical to Frontier’s service in the southwestern United States.
- Las Vegas, Nevada: Given its status as a major tourist destination, this base is vital for Frontier’s operations.
- Orlando, Florida: This base supports Frontier’s extensive routes to and from Florida.
- Tampa, Florida: Similar to Orlando, this location is essential for servicing Florida’s travel demands.
- Miami, Florida: This base enhances Frontier’s presence in the southeastern U.S.
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: Serving as a key point on the East Coast, this base supports various routes.
- Atlanta, Georgia: This base helps Frontier tap into one of the largest metropolitan areas in the U.S.
In addition to these established bases, Frontier Airlines opened two new crew bases:
- Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG): Scheduled to open in May 2024, this base will create around 240 new jobs for pilots and flight attendants.
- Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE): Planned for March 2024, this base will generate approximately 410 new jobs, including positions for pilots and flight attendants.
Frontier also reopened its pilot base in Chicago, spanning both O’Hare (ORD) and Midway (MDW) airports in May 2024. This reopening is planned to employ up to 110 pilots and support approximately 300 crew people altogether.
What Airplanes are in the Fleet?
Frontier Airlines operates a modern fleet mostly comprised of Airbus aircraft, with a focus on efficiency and passenger comfort. As of December 2024, the airline’s fleet consisted of 150 aircraft, with an average age of 4.5 years. This relatively youthful fleet improves operational reliability and customer satisfaction.
Current Fleet Composition
Frontier Airlines has transitioned to an all-Airbus fleet, which includes the following aircraft types:
- Airbus A318: 11 aircraft
- Airbus A319: 53 aircraft
- Airbus A320: 89 aircraft, including:
- A320-200: 7 aircraft
- A320neo: 82 aircraft
- Airbus A321: 59 aircraft, including:
- A321-200: 21 aircraft
- A321neo: 38 aircraft
Frontier operates a significant number of Airbus A320-family aircraft, making it the largest operator of this type in the United States. This strategic decision reinforces their low-cost approach while meeting a variety of route demands.
Future Plans
Looking ahead, Frontier has made orders for roughly 200 new Airbus aircraft, which will extend its fleet and improve operational capabilities until 2027. This expansion demonstrates the airline’s dedication to delivering cheap travel options across its network.
Frontier Airlines maintains a strong and efficient fleet based on Airbus models, allowing it to remain competitive in the low-cost carrier market while planning for future expansion.
What benefits do Frontier Airlines Pilots get?
Frontier Airlines provides a robust benefits package to its pilots, making it an appealing option for individuals seeking to improve their careers in aviation. Here’s a rundown of the major advantages you can expect:
Health and Insurance Benefits
- Health Insurance: Frontier offers a variety of health insurance choices, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. This ensures that pilots and their families have access to the appropriate medical treatment.
- Disability Insurance: Pilots can obtain both short-term and long-term disability insurance. Short-term disability covers income loss for up to 90 days, but long-term disability begins after 90 days and pays a percentage of the pilot’s salary.
- Life Insurance:The airline provides term life insurance developed particularly for pilots, with coverage options ranging up to $1.5 million. This benefit ensures financial security for pilot families.
- Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance: Pilots can opt for supplementary coverage that supplements life insurance and provides financial protection in the event of a major accident.
Retirement Plans
- 401(k) Retirement Plan: Frontier Airlines offers a 401(k) plan that allows pilots to prepare for retirement while the employer matches their contributions, so securing their financial security.
Paid Time Off and Vacation
- Paid Time Off (PTO): Pilots are granted sick leave and vacation time. Sick leave averages one day per month, whereas vacation policies are flexible and competitive in the business. This flexibility allows pilots to efficiently manage their time off.
Travel Benefits
- Flight Privileges: Frontier Airlines pilots receive complimentary flights for themselves and their families on Frontier routes. They also receive travel incentives such as discounts on other airlines, which improves their overall travel experiences.
Career Advancement Opportunities
- Growth Potential: As Frontier Airlines expands its fleet and route network, pilots will have prospects for rapid growth. The airline’s good work culture creates an environment conducive to professional development.
What are the Hiring Requirements?
To become a pilot for Frontier Airlines, you must complete strict recruiting requirements that ensure you have the appropriate abilities and experience. Here’s a thorough summary of what’s required:
General Requirements
- Total Flight Hours: You must have a minimum of 1,500 total flight hours.
- Multi-Engine Experience: At least 750 hours of multi-engine fixed-wing flight time is required.
- Pilot in Command (PIC) Time: You need a minimum of 500 hours as Pilot in Command.
- Turbine Time: A minimum of 500 hours in jet or turbo-prop aircraft is also necessary.
Furthermore, Frontier Airlines only counts flight hours logged in fixed-wing or rotary aircraft. Hours spent in simulators or as other crew members (such as bombardiers and navigators) do not count toward these requirements.
Certifications and Medical Requirements
- FAA Class 1 Medical Certificate: You must hold a current FAA Class 1 Medical Certificate.
- Vision Standards: Your vision must be corrected to 20/20.
- Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Certificate: An ATP certificate is mandatory.
- FCC Restricted Radio Operator’s Permit: This certification is needed for communication purposes.
- Valid Passport: You must possess a valid passport with machine-readable print and be eligible to travel internationally.
Additional Qualifications
- Authorization to Work: You should have authorization to work in the United States.
- Relocation and Travel Flexibility: Be prepared to relocate and work weekends, nights, holidays, and overnight trips.
- Professional Appearance: Maintain a well-groomed and professional appearance.
- Background Checks and Drug Testing: You must pass pre-employment drug testing and background checks.
Skills and Abilities
Frontier Airlines seeks applicants with strong communication abilities, including competence in speaking, reading, and writing English. Effective handling of stressful situations requires strong problem-solving skills.
By meeting these standards, you will position yourself as a strong candidate for a pilot position with Frontier Airlines. Because of the airline’s expanding fleet and operational needs, there are prospects for professional promotion, including faster transitions to captain positions.
Steps to apply for the Frontier Airlines Pilot job
To apply for a pilot position at Frontier Airlines, you must follow a number of procedures to verify that you have the required qualifications and finish the application process successfully. Here is a comprehensive overview of the steps involved.
Steps to Apply for Frontier Airlines Pilot Position
- Review the Requirements: Before applying, ensure you meet the basic hiring criteria, which include:
- A minimum of 1,500 total flight hours.
- At least 750 hours of multi-engine fixed-wing flight time.
- A current FAA Class 1 Medical Certificate.
- An Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate.
- An FCC Restricted Radio Operator’s Permit.
- A valid passport and authorization to work in the U.S.
- Prepare Your Documents: Gather all required documents, including your résumé, flight records, medical certificates, and any other credentials. This preparation helps to speed the application process.
- Apply Online: Go to the Frontier Airlines careers page and submit your application online. Make sure to correctly fill out all needed fields and attach any necessary papers.
- Complete Online Assessments:After submitting your application, you may be asked to complete a series of online examinations. These examinations examine your abilities and suitability for the pilot position.
- Attend an Interview: If you pass the assessments, you will be invited for a virtual or in-person interview. Prepare thoroughly by researching the airline and practicing common interview questions.
- Conditional Acceptance: Upon completing the interview process, you may receive a conditional offer of employment. This offer is typically contingent upon passing further evaluations, such as background checks and drug testing.
- Training Program Enrollment: If accepted, you will participate in Frontier’s training program, which may include simulator training and aircraft familiarization.
- Start Your Career: Once training is completed successfully, you will begin your career as a pilot at Frontier Airlines.
By carefully following these steps, you can improve your chances of obtaining a pilot position with Frontier Airlines. The airline provides reasonable compensation and perks, making it an appealing choice for prospective pilots wishing to improve their careers in aviation.
Frontier Airlines Pilot Salary – FAQs
Below are the FAQs related to Frontier Airlines Pilot salary are as follows:
Frontier Airlines offers starting salaries of $100 per hour for First Officers and $202 per hour for Captains.
Frontier Airlines’ average pilot income is around $92,958 per year. This price may vary depending on experience and position within the airline.
Experienced pilots can make substantially more, with top First Officers earning up to $179 per hour and Captains earning up to $270.
Captains flying the Airbus A320 earn hourly rates ranging from $184 to $210 in their first few years. Officer salaries typically begin at $58 per hour and rise to $135 per hour after several years.
Yes, earnings vary according to the type of aircraft operated. Pilots flying larger or more complicated aircraft typically earn more money due to the increased skill and experience requirements.
Pilots are promised a minimum of 75 flight hours per month, with additional hours paid at a higher rate if they surpass it.