Are you searching for the full UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) salary structure in 2025, including details of job levels, pay bands, and benefits? You are not alone. Many professionals in the aviation industry and those interested in joining the UK CAA want to understand how much they can earn and what perks are available.
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) is the UK’s regulatory body for aviation. It oversees air safety, economic regulation, airspace, and consumer protection. Working at the CAA offers the chance to contribute to a vital public service while enjoying competitive salaries and benefits.
This guide explains everything you need to know about the CAA salary structure 2025 — levels and perks. Whether you’re applying for a job, planning a career move, or just curious, this article provides accurate and practical information tailored to the UK audience.
Why Understanding the UK CAA Salary Structure Is Important
Learning about the salary structure at the CAA is essential because:
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It helps you set realistic career and salary expectations.
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It allows you to compare opportunities within the public sector and aviation industry.
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It prepares you to negotiate your salary confidently.
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It helps you identify roles that align with your skills and aspirations.
The CAA employs a wide range of professionals — from administrative staff to senior managers, engineers, inspectors, and economists — so pay varies based on role, level, and experience.
How Much Do UK CAA Employees Earn in 2025?
In 2025, salaries at the UK CAA depend on the job level, grade, and responsibilities.
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Entry-level administrative and support roles start from around £25,000 to £35,000 per year.
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Technical and specialist positions can range from £40,000 to £70,000 per year.
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Senior managers and directors earn between £80,000 and £150,000 per year, with the Chief Executive earning more.
The CAA salary structure is organised into grades, with each grade corresponding to a specific pay range and benefits. Below, we break down the levels and their respective pay bands.
UK CAA Salary Levels & Pay Bands 2025
The UK CAA uses a transparent grade and level system, ensuring fairness and clarity across all roles. The levels can be grouped as follows:
Administrative and Support Staff
These roles include clerical, administrative, and support services essential for daily operations.
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Level A (Administrative Assistant): £25,000 – £30,000
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Level B (Senior Administrator): £28,000 – £35,000
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Level C (Office Manager): £35,000 – £45,000
These roles usually require good organisational skills and basic qualifications.
Technical and Specialist Staff
This category includes engineers, inspectors, analysts, and other skilled professionals.
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Level D (Technical Specialist/Analyst): £40,000 – £55,000
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Level E (Senior Specialist/Engineer): £50,000 – £70,000
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Level F (Principal Specialist): £65,000 – £85,000
Specialist roles often require professional qualifications and experience in areas like engineering, safety, policy, or regulation.
Management and Leadership Roles
These positions include senior managers, heads of departments, and executives responsible for strategic decision-making.
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Level G (Head of Department): £80,000 – £100,000
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Level H (Director): £100,000 – £150,000
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Chief Executive: £200,000+
Leadership roles demand significant expertise, proven management skills, and the ability to oversee complex operations.
Summary Table: UK CAA Salary Levels & Perks 2025
| Level / Role | Salary Range (£) | Typical Perks |
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| Level A — Administrative Asst. | 25,000 – 30,000 | Pension, training, annual leave |
| Level B — Senior Admin | 28,000 – 35,000 | Flexible working, progression |
| Level C — Office Manager | 35,000 – 45,000 | Bonus eligibility, childcare support |
| Level D — Technical Specialist | 40,000 – 55,000 | Professional development, pension |
| Level E — Senior Engineer | 50,000 – 70,000 | Allowances, work-life balance |
| Level F — Principal Specialist | 65,000 – 85,000 | Health insurance, extra leave |
| Level G — Head of Dept. | 80,000 – 100,000 | Leadership bonuses, premium pension |
| Level H — Director | 100,000 – 150,000 | Executive perks, car allowance |
| Chief Executive | 200,000+ | Full benefits, strategic bonuses |
Perks and Benefits of Working at the CAA
In addition to competitive salaries, CAA employees enjoy several perks:
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Pension Scheme: Generous public-sector pension.
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Annual Leave: Typically 25–30 days plus bank holidays.
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Flexible Working: Options for hybrid and part-time work.
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Training and Development: Support for further education and certifications.
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Health and Well-being Programs: Including employee assistance services and health insurance for some roles.
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Childcare Support: Assistance schemes for parents.
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Bonuses: Performance-related pay for senior and specialist roles.
Factors That Affect CAA Salaries
Several factors influence your salary at the CAA:
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Job level and responsibilities: Higher levels attract higher salaries.
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Experience and qualifications: Experienced professionals command higher pay.
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Location: Roles in London or high-cost areas may include location allowances.
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Specialist skills: Niche expertise in areas like air safety or engineering can increase earning potential.
How to Progress at the CAA
The CAA offers clear pathways for career advancement:
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Entry-level staff can move into technical or management positions with experience and training.
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Specialist staff can progress to principal or head-level roles.
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Managers can advance to director-level positions.
Performance reviews, professional development, and internal job postings help employees move up the ladder.
Frequently Asked Questions About UK CAA Salaries 2025
What is the starting salary at the CAA?
Entry-level salaries start at around £25,000–£30,000 per year, depending on the role.
How much does a technical specialist at the CAA earn?
Technical specialists can earn between £40,000–£55,000 per year, increasing with experience and seniority.
Are there bonuses at the CAA?
Yes. Senior roles and exceptional performance in some specialist positions may attract performance-related bonuses.
Does the CAA pay more for London-based jobs?
Some roles include London Weighting or location allowances to compensate for higher living costs.
What is the highest-paid role at the CAA?
The Chief Executive earns over £200,000 per year, making it the highest-paid position.
Tips to Maximise Your Earnings at the CAA
If you aim to increase your earnings while working at the CAA:
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Pursue professional certifications and advanced qualifications.
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Apply for specialist or technical roles with higher pay scales.
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Take on leadership responsibilities or project management duties.
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Seek opportunities for internal promotion through regular performance reviews.
Final Thoughts: UK CAA Salary Structure 2025 — Levels & Perks
The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) salary structure in 2025 offers competitive pay, clear career progression, and excellent benefits. From administrative roles starting at £25,000 to senior executive positions earning over £200,000, the CAA provides opportunities for a wide range of professionals in aviation, regulation, and public service.
With additional perks like flexible working, pensions, and professional development, the CAA remains an attractive employer in the UK. Understanding the salary levels and benefits can help you plan your career, set realistic goals, and position yourself for success within the organisation.