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The dream of flying professionally often comes with a big question: How much does an Avianca pilot make? In this article, you’ll find up-to-date salary figures, comparisons with other airlines, key factors that influence pilot pay, and a comprehensive overview of the aviation job market in Colombia.
In Colombia, becoming a pilot for a major airline like Avianca is not only an exciting career path but also a profession with strong economic potential. The average salary of an Avianca pilot depends on key factors such as experience, the type of aircraft operated, and total flight hours. Generally, a First Officer can earn between COP $10,000,000 and $18,000,000 per month, while a seasoned Captain may earn over COP $25,000,000 monthly, reaching up to COP $28,000,000 for international or more complex flights.
These salary ranges reflect the growing demand for highly skilled professionals in Colombia’s commercial aviation sector. As a leading airline in Latin America, Avianca offers competitive compensation packages influenced by seniority and the type of operation (domestic or international). For aspiring pilots, obtaining a type rating for aircraft like the Airbus A320, one of Avianca’s most commonly used planes, can significantly enhance job prospects and salary potential. Training with certified institutions such as Global Training Aviation Colombia, which offers approved simulators and type rating programs, is a strategic step toward entering this competitive market.
A pilot’s salary at Avianca is not fixed; it depends on a combination of factors that determine their level of responsibility and specialization. Below are the key elements that influence monthly earnings:
Flight Experience (Total Flight Hours): The more flight hours a pilot has, the higher their operational capability and salary. Airlines especially value pilots with over 1,500 flight hours, which is also a common requirement for becoming a captain.
First Officer vs. Captain Role: First Officers receive a competitive starting salary, but Captains, who take on greater operational and leadership responsibilities, earn significantly higher wages.
Aircraft Type (e.g., ATR, A320, B787): The aircraft model directly impacts the pay scale. Flying an Airbus A320 or Boeing 787 requires more specialized training and offers better compensation. In Colombia, you can obtain an A320 type rating at Global Training Aviation, boosting your chances of joining this fleet.
Flight Routes (Domestic vs. International): International routes typically offer higher pay due to their complexity and duration. These flights may also include per diem allowances and additional benefits.
Seniority at the Airline: Over time, pilots move up the ranks and receive progressive salary increases based on Avianca’s internal policies and labor agreements.
Performance or Availability Bonuses: Avianca also offers financial incentives for pilots who demonstrate high availability, punctuality, or outstanding performance during internal audits.
Understanding these factors is essential for anyone planning a stable and profitable career as a commercial pilot in Colombia.
In the Colombian aviation market, Avianca stands out as one of the top-paying airlines for pilots, especially those with experience and type ratings for aircraft like the Airbus A320. While Avianca pilots can earn between COP $10,000,000 and $28,000,000 per month, other airlines such as LATAM Colombia offer salaries ranging from COP $9 million to $24 million.
Meanwhile, regional carriers like Satena and EasyFly offer lower salary scales, typically between COP $6 million and $15 million, similar to Viva Air (prior to its closure), where pilots earned between COP $7 million and $21 million. These salary differences reflect not only the size and reach of each airline but also the types of aircraft and routes they operate.
Avianca continues to lead in pilot compensation, particularly for mid and senior level pilots, making it a highly attractive option for aviation professionals in Colombia.
Becoming a pilot at Avianca requires meeting rigorous technical and medical standards. These are the key requirements to apply for a position as a First Officer or Captain at the airline:
Commercial Pilot License (CPL) or Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL): It is essential to hold a valid license issued by Colombia’s Civil Aviation Authority or one that is internationally recognized.
Class 1 Medical Certification: This examination ensures that the pilot meets the physical and psychological conditions necessary to safely operate commercial aircraft.
Good level of English (minimum ICAO Level 4): Since air traffic communications are conducted in English, Avianca requires a minimum level of language proficiency according to ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) standards.
Minimum required experience (flight hours): Although it varies depending on the position, at least 200 flight hours are generally required for First Officers, and more than 1,500 hours to qualify as a Captain.
Type Rating for aircraft operated by Avianca (A320, A330, B787): Holding a type rating for aircraft such as the Airbus A320, A330, or Boeing 787 is a significant advantage.
In addition to a competitive salary, Avianca pilots enjoy a range of benefits that support their well-being and professional development within the company:
Flight Tickets for Employees and Family Members: Pilots have access to discounted or free airfare, allowing them to travel within and outside Colombia with their loved ones.
Health Plans and Insurance: Avianca provides high-quality medical coverage, life insurance, and other complementary services that ensure comprehensive protection for the pilot and their family.
Job Stability and Career Advancement Opportunities: As one of the largest airlines in Latin America, Avianca offers strong career growth potential, with real opportunities to move up from First Officer to Captain and even into administrative roles.
Ongoing Training and Internal Certifications: The airline invests in continuous training for its crew, including type ratings and certified internal courses. Partnering with institutions like GTA (Global Training Aviation) also enhances pilot preparation and employability.
Performance and Productivity Bonuses: Pilots may receive additional financial incentives for meeting operational goals, demonstrating high availability, or excelling in audits and simulation exercises.
Being a pilot at Avianca is undoubtedly a profitable and strategic career path within Colombia’s aviation sector. Not only do pilots receive one of the highest salaries in the country, but they also have the opportunity to build a long-term career, with real chances for promotion to Captain, participation in international flights, and access to additional benefits such as flight tickets, insurance, and continuous training.
This combination of job stability, career growth, and competitive compensation makes Avianca an excellent professional choice for those pursuing a future in Colombian aviation.
The monthly salary varies depending on the rank: a First Officer earns between COP $10 million and $18 million, while an experienced Captain can earn up to COP $28 million per month.
Avianca pilots receive airline tickets for themselves and their families, performance bonuses, medical insurance, ongoing training, and career growth opportunities within the company.
