We recently took a closer look at cabin crew salaries, uncovering what they earn and what the job entails. But every time you pass through KLIA and see a Malaysia Airlines pilot heading toward the gate or stepping into the cockpit, it’s hard not to wonder: What kind of salary does a pilot earn for flying that aircraft?
In 2025, the numbers might surprise you. Let’s break down the pilot salary at Malaysia Airlines, rank by rank, and see what it really takes to earn those wings.
Malaysia Airlines at a Glance
Malaysia Airlines (MH), the national flag carrier of Malaysia, is headquartered at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) and operates from both KLIA and its secondary base in Kota Kinabalu. A member of the Oneworld Alliance, the airline has a fleet of over 75 aircraft and serves more than 60 destinations across Asia and globally.
At its busiest, Malaysia Airlines runs over 300 flights daily, supported by a workforce of more than 1,200 pilots. The airline also offers a cadet pilot program, allowing aspiring aviators a pathway into commercial flying.
In this article, we break down what pilots earn at different ranks, the additional allowances they receive, and the benefits that come with flying for Malaysia’s national airline.
Starting Out: Second Officer Salary
Pilots at Malaysia Airlines begin their careers as Second Officers. These are typically fresh graduates from aviation academies or pilots with limited flight hours, working alongside captains to build experience.
- Annual pilot salary: RM 51,000 – RM 68,000
- Monthly equivalent: RM 4,250 – RM 5,667
Second Officers do not receive flight hour bonuses, but they are entitled to layover and meal allowances during assignments away from their home base. This phase focuses on logging flight time and learning the practical demands of the job.
Moving Up: First Officer Salary
Once they’ve accumulated the necessary hours, Second Officers are promoted to First Officers, commonly referred to as co-pilots. These pilots assist captains in operating the aircraft and often handle communication with air traffic control, takeoffs, landings, and navigation.
- Annual pilot salary: RM 72,000 – RM 204,000
- Monthly base pay: RM 6,000 – RM 17,000
In addition to their salary, First Officers receive flight hour pay:
- RM 29 per hour for narrow-body aircraft (like the Boeing 737)
- RM 43 per hour for wide-body aircraft (like the Airbus A350)
With enough flying hours and wide-body experience, a First Officer can earn upwards of RM 20,000 per month, especially on long-haul international routes.
Command Role: Captain Salary
Captains are the most senior pilots, commanding the cockpit and making all final decisions on flight operations. They also mentor junior pilots and handle any emergencies or complex in-flight decisions.
- Annual pilot salary: RM 180,000 – RM 420,000
- Monthly base pay: RM 15,000 – RM 35,000
Additional hourly flight pay is provided based on aircraft type:
- RM 48 per hour for narrow-body aircraft
- RM 72 per hour for wide-body aircraft
A senior captain operating long-haul international flights can earn over RM 50,000 in a high-flying month, combining base salary, flight hours, and allowances.
Aircraft Types and Impact on Pilot Salary
The type of aircraft flown significantly influences pilot salary at Malaysia Airlines. The airline operates a diverse fleet, including:
Current aircraft in service:
- Airbus A330-200, A330-300, and A330-900
- Airbus A350-900
- Boeing 737-800 and 737 MAX 8
On order:
- 17 Airbus A330-900
- 3 Airbus A350-900
- 32 Boeing 737 MAX 8
- 12 Boeing 737 MAX 10
Flying wide-body aircraft generally leads to higher flight pay and greater monthly earnings, particularly on international routes.
Benefits Malaysia Airlines Pilots Receive
In addition to their salaries, pilots at Malaysia Airlines enjoy a wide range of employee benefits that contribute to job satisfaction and work-life balance. These include:
- Generous time off: Annual leave plus compensation for public holidays worked. Parental leave is among the most generous in the industry.
- Insurance coverage: Comprehensive global medical insurance, as well as life and loss-of-license policies, ensuring financial security for both the pilot and their family.
- Travel perks: Pilots and nominated family members enjoy free travel on standby across the airline’s network, or significant discounts on paid tickets.
- Facilities: Access to gym, cafeteria, childcare facilities, airport shuttle services, and recreation areas located at the KL headquarters.
- Professional development: Pilots are encouraged to take upskilling courses and training to stay current with evolving aviation technologies. They are also offered career transition opportunities into office-based roles upon nearing retirement.
How to Join Malaysia Airlines as a Pilot
Interested in earning a competitive pilot salary and flying for the national carrier? Here’s what you’ll need:
Minimum requirements:
- A bachelor’s degree or equivalent
- A valid Malaysian ATPL (Airline Transport Pilot License)
- Pass Class 1 medical examination
- Strong English communication and leadership skills
- Malaysian citizenship or a valid Malaysian passport
Application process:
- Apply through the Malaysia Airlines Careers Portal
- Complete an online assessment (aptitude and personality)
- Attend an interview (some may include simulator tests)
- Clear medical exams and background checks
- Receive an offer (subject to documentation and license verification)
Is It Worth Becoming a Malaysia Airlines Pilot?
If you’re aiming for a rewarding and stable career with room for growth, becoming a pilot at Malaysia Airlines offers both solid compensation and meaningful perks. From RM 4,250/month as a new Second Officer to RM 30,000+ as a Captain, the pilot salary range is a reflection of both responsibility and skill.
With a strong support system, exciting travel opportunities, and continuous investment in fleet and training, Malaysia Airlines remains one of the most attractive employers for pilots in the region.
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Related articles:
Thinking of Becoming Cabin Crew? Here’s the Salary You Can Expect
If SIA Can Make RM9.19 Billion, Why MAS Is Still Struggling With RM54 Million?
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