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FedEx Express, recognized as the world's largest cargo airline by fleet size, employs over 5,800 pilots and operates nearly 400 aircraft across more than 375 destinations worldwide. The company’s pilot workforce is unionized under the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), which negotiates contracts related to pay and working conditions.
According to ThrustFlight data, entry-level First Officers at FedEx Express earn a basic annual salary of $77,760 in their first year. This figure increases to $162,240 in the second year and $197,760 in the third year. Captains receive higher salaries, starting at $224,640 in their first year and rising to $268,800 by their third year. These figures are based on a minimum of 74 flight hours per month and do not include additional compensation such as per diem payments or retirement contributions.
Pilots also benefit from various bonuses and incentives. For example, those working during peak holiday seasons can earn up to 50% of their monthly salary as a bonus. Profit sharing may provide up to 20% of annual salary depending on company performance. Overtime is paid at time-and-a-half for hours exceeding 80 per month and double time for more than 90 hours. Other incentives include delay pay for extended delays, trainer pay for those instructing other pilots, international flight bonuses of up to 20%, and seniority bonuses that increase with years of service.
