Entry-level Commercial Pilot salary in South Africa
What first-year commercial pilots actually earn in South Africa, the path from entry to mid-level, and the hourly rate behind those monthly numbers.
Starting pay
R35 000/mo
After 1–2 years
R60 000/mo
Hourly rate
R202–R347/hr
What you'll earn as a junior commercial pilot
- • Most first-year commercial pilots start between R35 000 and R60 000 per month.
- • That works out to roughly R202–R347 per hour on a 40-hour week.
- • Education path: Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL).
- • Typical experience needed at entry: 200+ flight hours for entry.
- • Within 3–5 years, mid-level pay rises to around R95 000/month.
From entry to mid-level
Within 3–5 years, mid-level commercial pilot pay rises to around R95 000/month - a 171% increase over your starting salary.
See full Commercial Pilot salary guide →