Airline Captain salary in New Zealand

Average Yearly Salary of Airline Captain in New Zealand is approximately 320,956 NZD (161,266 USD). Data is for 2025 and indicates a pre-tax value. The salary itself depends on multiple factors such as seniority, job performance, certifications, experience or any other bonuses. The value indicated is an average amount based on records we have in database. Real values may vary. The data is for orientational purposes.

What does Airline Captain do?

An airline captain is a highly skilled and experienced pilot who is responsible for the safe operation of an aircraft. They are in command of the flight and have the ultimate authority and responsibility for the safety of passengers, crew, and the aircraft. Their main duties include planning and executing flights, conducting pre-flight inspections, communicating with air traffic control, monitoring weather conditions, and ensuring compliance with aviation regulations. An airline captain must possess excellent leadership and decision-making skills, as they often have to make critical judgments in high-pressure situations. They must also have strong communication and teamwork abilities to effectively coordinate with the co-pilot and cabin crew. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to remain calm under stress are crucial qualities for this occupation.

Skills: Airline pilot, Aviation, Flight operations, Safety management, Leadership, Decision-making.
Job industry: Aviation

How much does Airline Captain make?

Difference in salary year over year or average salary increase is approximately 3 %


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Airline Captain a well paid job?

Yes, our data show that Airline Captain is a very well paid job. With years and experience the salary might increase even further, resulting in higher satisfaction.

What is considered a high salary for Airline Captain?

High salary for Airline Captain would be somewhere between 353,052 NZD and 465,386 NZD. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Airline Captain in New Zealand?

Living in New Zealand the approximate monthly expenses are: 1,938 USD. This amount covers basic needs such as food, housing, clothing, healthcare and education costs for a single person. No luxury expenses such as traveling, leisure, hobbies are included in the estimation.

Estimated Yearly Salary: 320,956 NZD
Estimated Monthly Salary: 26,746 NZD
Estimated Weekly Salary: 6,172 NZD per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 154 NZD per hour
By working as Airline Captain a person can save up to 11,500 USD per month or 138,005 USD yearly. Values are pre-tax.

NOTE: These values are estimates and are averaged for the whole country. Furthermore the value is likely exaggerated as no other expenses are taken into account in the projection. Unessential expenses are very subjective and are difficult to assess. Most likely the previously estimated number is significantly lower for majority of people. Expenses in different cities across the country may vary. Above values accuracy is low and is based on limited set of data obtained.

For more information regarding expenses in New Zealand, see costs of living in New Zealand.

Salary comparison to region and neighbouring coutries

Country's neighbours are: Australia, Fiji, New Caledonia, Tonga, Samoa.
To make it easier for comparison a conversion from local currency to USD has been made (conversion rates may vary).

Estimated Yearly Salary for Airline Captain

Last revision of data: 2025-01-04

Salary increase per years of experience

Based on data available the salary increase per years of experience is as following

0 years (beginner) equals base salary

1 to 5 years of experience yields +12% salary increase

6 to 10 years of experience yields +25% salary increase

11 to 15 years of experience yields +16% salary increase

16 to 25 years of experience yields +9% salary increase

more than 25 years of experience yields +10% salary increase

NOTE: Details based on limited set of data. Percentages may vary. The salary increase over years of experience can vary widely based on factors such as job industry, job role, location, company size, and individual performance. To gain even larger increase in salary one is advised to switch jobs and / or employer.

Top 10 highest salaries in New Zealand

Data as of 2025

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