Saudi Arabia’s soon-to-launch Riyadh Air is making waves by offering some of the highest pilot salaries in the region – promising to pay first officers and captains huge monthly wages when operations begin by the end of 2025.
First officers flying wide-body jets like the Boeing 787-9 could pocket up to 65,000 Saudi Riyals per month (US$17,300). Meanwhile, captains of narrow-body aircraft may earn as much as 115,000 Riyals (US$31,000), and those commanding wide-body planes could see salaries reaching 120,000 Riyals monthly (US$32,000).
The generous package doesn’t stop at salary. Pilots will also enjoy luxury housing, international school tuition for up to three children, 20 round-trip flights per year, a Ramadan bonus, a 5% yearly pay hike, business class travel perks, and even profit-sharing.
Riyadh Air is building a fleet of Airbus A321neo and Boeing 787-9 aircraft, currently training crews on a leased Dreamliner from Oman Air. Pilots must have at least 2,000 flight hours for first officer roles and 6,000 for captain positions – all under 59 years old.
With these hefty pay offers, Riyadh Air aims to lure top talent and fiercely compete across Middle East skies and beyond.