How much does a Pilot earn in Nigeria?
Find out how much Pilots earn in Nigeria, including monthly and annual salaries, job description, taxes, and more.
What does a Pilot do?
Pilots in Nigeria are responsible for operating aircraft safely and efficiently, navigating across the Nigerian and international airspaces. They work for commercial airlines, private corporations, or the military, planning flights, communicating with air traffic control, and monitoring weather conditions. They also ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers and crew throughout the flight.
Average Salary of a Pilot in Nigeria
The average salary for a pilot in Nigeria can vary based on the employer, location, and experience. The approximate figures are:
AVERAGE MONTHLY SALARY
₦ 850,000
AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY
₦ 10,200,000
Note: These figures are estimates and can vary. Senior and specialized professionals may earn significantly more.
Salary by Experience
- Entry Level: 300,000 - 500,000
- Mid Level: 600,000 - 1,000,000
- Senior Level: 1,200,000 - 2,000,000
Salary by Education
- Bachelor's Degree: Holders of a Bachelor's degree in aviation or related fields often start with average salaries but have greater upward mobility.
- Professional Pilot Certification: Certified pilots with licenses recognized by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) can expect higher starting salaries and opportunities.
Calculate Your Take-Home Pay as a Pilot
Wondering how much you'll actually take home? Enter an estimated gross monthly salary for a pilot in Nigeria to see an estimate of your net pay after taxes. (Note: This is a simplified calculation for illustrative purposes).
Estimated Net Monthly Salary:
(After an estimated tax of )
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How to Become a Pilot
Becoming a pilot in Nigeria involves a blend of formal education, professional training, and certification.
- Earn a Bachelor’s degree in aviation, engineering, or a related field.
- Attend a flight school accredited by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to obtain flight hours and experience.
- Pass the necessary examinations and training to receive a Private Pilot License (PPL), followed by a Commercial Pilot License (CPL).
- Gain experience and log enough flying hours to meet airlines or other employer's requirements.
- Maintain and upgrade certifications, including getting an Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) for career advancement.
Educational Requirements
Most commercial pilots in Nigeria possess a Bachelor’s degree in Aviation, Aerospace Engineering, or similar fields. Specialized training and flight hours achieved through an NCAA-accredited flight school are crucial.
Essential Skills
Technical Skills
- Aircraft operation
- Navigation
- Emergency management
- Flight planning
Soft Skills
- Communication
- Problem-solving
- Attention to detail
- Teamwork
Professional Certifications
Pilots must obtain a Private Pilot License (PPL) and a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority. Further certification, like an Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL), may be required for advancing in a pilot career.
LinkedIn Guide
A strong LinkedIn profile for pilots in Nigeria should highlight flight hours, certifications (PPL, CPL, ATPL), and any specialized training. Recommendations from instructors or colleagues can also significantly enhance a profile.
Compare With Another Job
See how a pilot's salary in Nigeria compares to other professions. This can help you understand your earning potential and career options.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Page last updated: August 13, 2025