Are you searching for the pilot salary per month in Nigeria in 2025? You’re not alone. Thousands of young Nigerians dream of becoming pilots not just for the thrill of flying, but also for the high income and prestige associated with the job. But how much do pilots actually earn in Nigeria?
This full guide reveals everything you need to know about pilot earnings in Nigeria from entry-level salaries to experienced airline captains, private jet pilots, helicopter pilots, and even government-employed pilots. Whether you’re considering aviation school or you're a fresh graduate, this breakdown will help you understand the financial expectations.
Overview of Pilot Careers in Nigeria
Pilots are responsible for operating aircraft to transport passengers, cargo, or perform surveillance, charter, or military missions. In Nigeria, the aviation sector is regulated by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), and pilots must have proper training and licensing.
Types of Pilots in Nigeria:
Commercial Airline Pilots
Private Jet Pilots
Helicopter Pilots
Cargo/Freight Pilots
Military and Government Pilots
Flight Instructors
The pilot salary per month in Nigeria varies greatly depending on:
License Type (CPL, ATPL, PPL)
Flying hours and experience
Airline/company or agency
Aircraft type (jet, turboprop, helicopter)
Domestic or international routes
Entry-Level Pilot Salary in Nigeria (2025)
After graduating from an aviation school and obtaining a Commercial Pilot License (CPL), most new pilots begin as First Officers (co-pilots). Salaries differ based on the airline and aircraft flown.
Airline First Officer (Junior Co-Pilot):
Monthly Salary Range: ₦500,000 – ₦1,200,000
Airlines: Air Peace, Arik Air, Dana Air, United Nigeria Airlines
Other Benefits: Free flights, crew allowances, duty bonus
Private Jet or Charter Pilot (Entry Level):
Salary Range: ₦400,000 – ₦800,000/month
Employers: ExecuJet, Izy Air, Jetwest, private clients
Entry-level pilots may also work as flight instructors in aviation schools and earn between ₦300,000 – ₦600,000 monthly.
Experienced Commercial Pilot Salary in Nigeria (2025)
With more than 2,000 flight hours and an Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL), pilots are eligible to become captains and fly larger aircraft.
Airline Captain (Domestic Flights):
Monthly Salary: ₦1.5 million – ₦3 million
Airlines: Air Peace, Ibom Air, Overland Airways
Aircraft Type: Boeing 737, Embraer, Bombardier
International Airline Pilot:
Monthly Salary: ₦3 million – ₦5 million+
Perks: International flight bonuses, allowances, retirement benefits
Helicopter Pilot Salary (Experienced):
Monthly Salary: ₦1 million – ₦2 million
Employers: Oil companies, security firms, offshore operations
Pilot Salary Table in Nigeria (2025)
| Pilot Type | Experience Level | Monthly Salary (₦) |
|---|---|---|
| Airline First Officer | Entry Level | ₦500,000 – ₦1.2 million |
| Airline Captain | 5+ years | ₦1.5m – ₦3 million |
| International Captain | 10+ years | ₦3m – ₦5 million+ |
| Private Jet Pilot | Mid-Level | ₦600,000 – ₦1.5 million |
| Helicopter Pilot | Mid to Senior | ₦1m – ₦2 million |
| Flight Instructor | Entry – Mid | ₦300,000 – ₦700,000 |
| Military/Govt Pilot | GL 12 – 15 | ₦350k – ₦900k + Allowances |
Breakdown of Pilot Salary by Employer
| Employer Type | Monthly Pay Range (₦) |
|---|---|
| Local Airlines | ₦500k – ₦3m |
| International Airlines | ₦3m – ₦5m+ |
| Private Jet Charter Services | ₦400k – ₦1.5m |
| Oil & Gas (Helicopter Pilots) | ₦1m – ₦2.5m |
| Aviation Schools (Instructors) | ₦300k – ₦700k |
| Nigerian Air Force | ₦350k – ₦1m+ (with benefits) |
Allowances and Benefits for Nigerian Pilots
In addition to basic salary, pilots often enjoy:
Flight Allowances (per diem, duty bonus)
Medical Insurance
Pension Contributions
Travel Perks (Free or discounted tickets)
Uniform and Meal Allowance
Offshore Bonus (for helicopter pilots)
International and premium airlines offer even more comprehensive benefits, including accommodation, life insurance, and dollar-based earnings.
Pilot Promotion Path in Nigeria
Career Path for Airline Pilots:
Flight School Graduate → First Officer (CPL)
First Officer → Senior First Officer (more flight hours)
Senior First Officer → Captain (ATPL required)
Captain → Chief Pilot / Fleet Manager / Director of Flight Operations
Promotion often depends on total flying hours (typically 1,500–2,500 for captainship), safety record, and simulator checks.
Requirements and Cost of Becoming a Pilot in Nigeria
To earn the salaries above, pilots must:
Attend an NCAA-approved flight school
Obtain a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) (after PPL and hours)
Build up to 1,500+ flight hours for captainship
Consider type-rating certification for specific aircraft
Cost of Pilot Training in Nigeria (as of 2025):
₦10 million – ₦25 million, depending on school and aircraft
Is Pilot Salary in Nigeria Paid in Naira or Dollars?
Local airlines pay in Naira, while foreign/international contracts, offshore companies, and some private jet services may pay in USD or offer foreign currency bonuses, especially for captains and contract pilots.
Pilot Salary vs Other High-Income Jobs in Nigeria (2025)
| Job Title | Monthly Salary (₦) |
|---|---|
| Airline Pilot (Captain) | ₦1.5m – ₦5m+ |
| Medical Consultant | ₦700k – ₦2m |
| Engineer (Oil & Gas) | ₦400k – ₦1.5m |
| Senior Banker | ₦600k – ₦2m |
| Lawyer (Partner) | ₦500k – ₦2.5m |
Pilots remain among the highest-paid professionals in Nigeria, especially those working in aviation firms or international routes.
FAQs – Pilot Salary Per Month in Nigeria 2025
How much does a pilot earn monthly in Nigeria?
₦500,000 – ₦5 million depending on rank, type of aircraft, and employer.
What is the salary of a private jet pilot in Nigeria?
₦600,000 – ₦1.5 million monthly, sometimes more with experience.
How much do international pilots earn in Nigeria?
Up to ₦5 million+ per month, plus travel perks and dollar bonuses.
Is flying a plane a good career in Nigeria?
Yes. Though training is expensive, pilot jobs offer high income, travel opportunities, and respect.
Do helicopter pilots earn more than commercial pilots?
In some offshore operations (e.g., oil companies), yes — they can earn ₦1 million – ₦2.5 million monthly.
Final Thoughts: Pilot Salary Per Month in Nigeria (2025)
The pilot salary per month in Nigeria in 2025 remains among the highest in the professional job market. While entry-level First Officers start from ₦500,000+, experienced captains working for premium airlines can earn millions per month.
Private jet pilots, helicopter operators in oil fields, and international airline captains also enjoy attractive pay, multiple allowances, and dollar-based perks. However, the path to this career is demanding and expensive — requiring years of training, thousands of flying hours, and strict licensing.
If you’re passionate about flying, and willing to invest in aviation school and simulator time, piloting in Nigeria offers one of the best-paying careers today.