How Much Does the Pilot Make That Flys Air Force One?
WouterThere are a number of things to consider when evaluating how much the pilot of an Air Force One will make. Although these pay tables are published publicly each year, they can be tricky to interpret. In some areas, allowances like the Basic Allowance for Housing are not taxable, so it’s not always easy to determine how much a pilot will make.
Among other aircraft, Air Force One has 15 business jets that it uses to transport its president. The jets have VIP staterooms and specialized communications equipment. A pilot can make between $18,338 an hour on a 737 or $57,638 on a Gulfstream III.
The salary of an Air Force pilot varies depending on rank and experience. A pilot with 3 years of experience can earn about $47,000 a year. However, a top-ranking colonel can earn as much as $92,000 annually. Air Force pilots are also eligible for benefits including tuition assistance, low-cost insurance, and a generous retirement package. They may also receive retention bonuses.
The plane is large and complex, with three levels and about 4,000 square feet of floor space. There’s even a conference room and a gym. Air Force One’s interior also has many bells and whistles. In the event of a nuclear attack, the plane can even serve as a de facto bunker. It’s also equipped with advanced security and communications equipment to operate as a mobile command center in the event of an emergency.
