Brazil’s aviation sector is growing rapidly, offering exciting career opportunities for pilots. Whether in commercial airlines or the military, pilots in Brazil earn competitive salaries that vary based on experience, role, and employer.
This comprehensive guide explains the pilot salary per month in Brazil in 2025, comparing civil and military aviation pay. You will learn about the salary ranges, benefits, career paths, and factors that affect earnings. This article is useful for aspiring pilots, aviation professionals, and anyone curious about pilot incomes in Brazil.
Why Understanding Pilot Salaries in Brazil Matters
Knowing pilot salaries helps:
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Aviation professionals plan their careers and finances.
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Foreign pilots understand income expectations before relocating.
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Students decide on pilot training paths.
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Aviation enthusiasts grasp industry salary standards.
Overview of Civil and Military Aviation in Brazil
Civil Aviation
Civil aviation includes commercial airlines, cargo carriers, and private aviation companies. Brazil has some major airlines like LATAM, Gol, and Azul.
Military Aviation
The Brazilian Air Force (Força Aérea Brasileira - FAB) operates military pilots. They fly fighter jets, transport aircraft, and helicopters for defense and humanitarian missions.
Civil Aviation Pilot Salary in Brazil 2025
Entry-Level Pilot Salary
New commercial pilots or first officers start with modest salaries:
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Average monthly pay: R$8,000 to R$12,000 (~USD 1,600 to 2,400).
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Salary depends on airline size and location.
Captain Salary
Experienced captains earn significantly more:
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Monthly salary ranges from R$18,000 to R$40,000 (~USD 3,600 to 8,000).
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Senior captains at large airlines may earn above R$40,000.
Factors Affecting Civil Pilot Salaries
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Flight Hours: More experience and flight hours increase pay.
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Airline Reputation: Major airlines pay more than regional or charter services.
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Aircraft Type: Pilots flying large jets earn more than those flying smaller planes.
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Seniority: Seniority influences rank and salary scale.
Benefits for Civil Pilots
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Travel benefits and discounts.
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Health insurance and retirement plans.
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Bonuses based on performance and flight hours.
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Per diem allowances for layovers.
Military Pilot Salary in Brazil 2025
Rank-Based Salary Structure
Military pilot salaries are tied to rank within the Brazilian Air Force:
| Rank | Monthly Salary Range (BRL) | Approximate USD Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Second Lieutenant | R$7,000 – R$9,000 | $1,400 – $1,800 |
| First Lieutenant | R$9,000 – R$11,000 | $1,800 – $2,200 |
| Captain | R$11,000 – R$15,000 | $2,200 – $3,000 |
| Major and Above | R$15,000 – R$25,000+ | $3,000 – $5,000+ |
Additional Military Pilot Allowances
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Flight pay allowance.
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Hazard and operational bonuses.
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Housing allowance.
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Health and pension benefits.
Career Growth in Military Aviation
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Military pilots can advance through ranks with experience.
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Opportunities to train on advanced aircraft and attend flight schools.
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Military service offers job security and pension plans.
Comparison of Civil and Military Pilot Salaries in Brazil
| Aspect | Civil Aviation Pilots | Military Aviation Pilots |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level Salary | R$8,000 – R$12,000 | R$7,000 – R$9,000 |
| Experienced Captain | R$18,000 – R$40,000+ | R$15,000 – R$25,000+ |
| Salary Growth Potential | High, based on flight hours & airline | Moderate, based on rank and years |
| Benefits | Travel perks, bonuses, health care | Housing, flight pay, pension |
| Job Security | Moderate | High (military contract) |
How to Become a Pilot in Brazil
Civil Pilot Requirements
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Complete private pilot license (PPL).
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Obtain commercial pilot license (CPL).
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Accumulate required flight hours.
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Pass medical and aptitude tests.
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Obtain Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) for captain roles.
Military Pilot Pathway
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Join the Brazilian Air Force Academy.
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Complete rigorous training and education.
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Pass physical and flight tests.
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Progress through military ranks.
Factors Influencing Pilot Salaries in Brazil
Geographic Location
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Pilots based in São Paulo and Rio tend to earn more.
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Regional and remote airports offer lower salaries but sometimes bonuses.
Airline or Military Branch
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Large commercial airlines pay more than smaller companies.
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Military pay is standardized but includes additional allowances.
Experience and Flight Hours
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More flight hours correlate strongly with higher pay.
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Seniority increases chances for captaincy and bonuses.
Summary Table: Pilot Salaries in Brazil 2025
| Pilot Type | Entry-Level Salary (BRL) | Experienced Salary (BRL) | Approx. USD Equivalent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Civil Aviation Pilot | 8,000 – 12,000 | 18,000 – 40,000+ | 1,600 – 8,000+ |
| Military Pilot | 7,000 – 9,000 | 15,000 – 25,000+ | 1,400 – 5,000+ |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the average pilot salary in Brazil?
Entry-level pilots earn around R$8,000, while experienced captains earn up to R$40,000 monthly.
2. Do military pilots earn less than civil pilots?
Military pilots often earn less initially but have strong benefits and job security.
3. How long does it take to become a commercial pilot in Brazil?
Typically 2-4 years including training and accumulating flight hours.
4. Can foreigners work as pilots in Brazil?
Yes, but they must validate licenses and obtain work permits.
5. What benefits do Brazilian pilots receive?
Health insurance, travel perks, pension, bonuses, and housing allowances (military).
6. Which sector pays pilots more: civil or military?
Civil aviation generally offers higher salaries, especially for experienced captains.
7. What is the importance of flight hours?
Flight hours directly impact salary and job opportunities.
8. Are there job opportunities for new pilots in Brazil?
Yes, especially as aviation grows, but competition is high.
Conclusion: Pilot Career and Salary Outlook in Brazil 2025
Pilots in Brazil enjoy good salary prospects in both civil and military aviation. Civil aviation offers higher earning potential, especially for captains in large airlines. Military pilots benefit from job security, benefits, and steady career progression.
Aspiring pilots should consider training options, sector preferences, and long-term career goals. Whether you choose commercial airlines or the Air Force, a pilot career in Brazil is promising and rewarding.
Prepare well, accumulate flight hours, and stay updated on industry changes to maximize your income and success as a pilot in Brazil.