Akmal Azhar
Malaysia Airlines, the national flag carrier based in Kuala Lumpur, maintains a comprehensive and transparent pilot salary structure in 2025. Operating a diverse fleet that includes Airbus A330s, A350s, and Boeing 737s, the airline supports its regional and international network with over 1,200 pilots.
Second Officers and Cadet Pilot Salaries
Entry-level pilots, referred to as Second Officers or Cadets, earn between RM 51,000 and RM 68,000 per year (around USD 10,700 to USD 14,300). Monthly salaries range from RM 4,229 to RM 5,668, depending on experience. While these junior roles do not include hourly flying allowances, they are entitled to night stop and meal allowances amounting to RM 150–RM 160 per night.
First Officer Salary Range and Benefits
First Officers, who act as co-pilots and future captains, receive a higher salary range from RM 72,000 to RM 204,000 annually (USD 15,100 to USD 42,900). Additional flying-hour compensation is granted: RM 29 per hour for narrow-body aircraft and RM 43 per hour for wide-body aircraft, supplementing their base income.
Captain Earnings and Incentives
Captains are the most experienced pilots and enjoy the highest salary brackets. Their annual pay ranges from RM 180,000 to RM 420,000 (USD 38,000 to USD 88,000). In addition to this, they receive RM 48 per flying hour for narrow-body jets and RM 72 per hour for wide-body operations. Captains on long-haul flights typically occupy the top salary tier.
Mid-2025 Salary Adjustment Across All Ranks
In a move to maintain competitiveness in the regional market, Malaysia Airlines implemented a 5 percent salary hike for all pilot ranks in mid-2025. This increment was aimed at addressing rising living costs and attracting pilot talent amid regional shortages.
Additional Perks and Compensation
Pilots also enjoy significant non-salary benefits, including housing and per diem allowances that can contribute an extra RM 15,000 to RM 30,000 annually. The airline provides full medical and life insurance coverage, pension schemes, staff travel privileges for family members, professional development opportunities, and on-site facilities like childcare, gym, and transport.
Yes, Malaysia Airlines pilots do get pension benefits. Most Malaysian pilots are covered under the EPF (Employees Provident Fund), where both the airline and pilot contribute monthly. For long-serving pilots, there may also be retirement bonuses or gratuity payments. The exact benefits depend on whether the pilot is a permanent staff, contract-based, or an expatriate. In general, full-time local pilots receive proper retirement support through the national EPF system.
Comparison with National Pilot Salary Averages
According to SalaryExpert, the average pilot in Malaysia earns approximately RM 115,246 annually, with hourly rates averaging RM 55. New pilots start around RM 82,392 per year, while seasoned professionals may earn up to RM 143,654. Malaysia Airlines’ structure places it competitively within this national range.
Requirements to Become a Pilot at Malaysia Airlines
To qualify as a pilot with Malaysia Airlines, candidates must have a bachelor’s degree, hold a valid Malaysian ATPL (or equivalent), and possess a Class 1 medical certificate. Applicants should demonstrate strong leadership, English proficiency, and must be Malaysian passport holders. The hiring process includes online assessments, simulator checks, interviews, and medical evaluations.
Conclusion
Malaysia Airlines’ 2025 pilot salary structure reflects a merit-based and experience-driven system designed to meet regional challenges while ensuring pilot satisfaction and operational excellence. The recent adjustments, along with an array of financial and lifestyle benefits, help the airline stay competitive in the Southeast Asian aviation market.
Zakirin
Yusri Ng
