Avelo Airlines Boosts Pilot Pay Amid Shortage, Plans Expansion
Avelo Airlines is taking proactive measures to address the ongoing pilot shortage by implementing a strategy of competitive compensation. In its fifth adjustment since its establishment in 2021, the airline has increased the pay scale for its pilots, highlighting the company’s commitment to attracting and retaining skilled aviators. Notably, first-year captains will now receive $240 per hour, with the rate escalating to $298 per hour by the 12th year. Meanwhile, first officers will experience a progression from $131 per hour to $201 over the same period.
The decision to enhance pilot compensation positions Avelo Airlines favorably when compared to other regional carriers and low-budget airlines, affirming its dedication to providing competitive remuneration. Avelo Airlines Chairman and CEO, Andrew Levy, emphasized the significance of the salary boost, stating that it, along with the airline’s exceptional benefits and quality of life offerings, will make Avelo an appealing choice for pilots. Levy underscored the pivotal role pilots play in Avelo’s future, expressing anticipation for the arrival of more skilled aviation professionals to the airline in the coming months and years.
In addition to the increased pilot compensation, Avelo Airlines has ambitious plans for expansion. The airline aims to add at least five more aircraft to its existing fleet of 16 by the next year, signifying robust growth. Furthermore, Avelo is set to establish its own flight training academy in Orlando, showcasing a commitment not only to meeting immediate pilot needs but also to fostering the next generation of aviators. This forward-thinking approach aligns with the airline’s overall strategy of sustaining growth and maintaining a competitive edge in the aviation industry.
Comparatively, Avelo’s pay raises for pilots stand out as among the most aggressive in the industry. This move comes in the wake of other major carriers, such as United Airlines, ratifying new contracts with significant pay increases and additional benefits for their pilots, reflecting a broader trend within the aviation sector to address labor shortages and enhance pilot satisfaction.
