Malaysia Airlines pilots will see new salary rates in 2025, following a recent pay adjustment aimed at keeping the airline competitive in Southeast Asia. As of August 2, 2025, the airline has confirmed new salary bands for pilots, reflecting both cost-of-living increases and the need to attract skilled professionals amid a regional pilot shortage.
The most important changes affect entry-level pilots, known as Second Officers or Cadets, who now earn a basic annual salary between RM 51,000 and RM 68,000 (about US$10,700 to US$14,300). This marks a roughly 5% increase over 2024, according to Malaysia Airlines’ human resources department. Monthly base pay for these pilots ranges from RM 4,229 to RM 5,668, depending on experience and progress through the training program. In addition, pilots receive allowances of RM 150 to RM 160 per night for layovers, with the exact amount depending on the stopover city.
First Officers, also known as co-pilots, see a much wider salary range. Their annual pay runs from RM 71,808 to RM 204,000, depending on experience, seniority, and the type of aircraft they fly. Monthly base pay for First Officers starts at RM 5,984 and can reach up to RM 17,000. Captains, who are the most senior pilots, earn between RM 129,000 and RM 201,100 per year. The highest salaries go to senior captains flying wide-body aircraft on international routes. Across all airlines in Malaysia, the median salary for airline pilots is RM 129,000 per year, while the top 25% of earners make between RM 185,000 and RM 201,100 annually.
These figures place Malaysia Airlines’ pilot salary structure in a strong position within the national market. According to PayScale’s 2025 report, the average salary for airline pilots, copilots, and flight engineers in Malaysia is RM 185,000, showing that Malaysia Airlines remains competitive. The airline’s pay rates are generally lower than those at major carriers in the United States 🇺🇸 or Europe, but they are in line with other Southeast Asian airlines. In fact, the gap between Malaysia Airlines and regional low-cost carriers has narrowed slightly in 2025, thanks to industry-wide pay adjustments.
Malaysia Airlines pilots also benefit from a range of allowances and benefits that add to their total compensation. In addition to their base salary, pilots receive per diem allowances for layovers, as well as housing and transportation benefits. For international pilots, these extras can add RM 15,000 to RM 30,000 per year. Health insurance, retirement contributions, and travel benefits are standard for all ranks.
The airline’s human resources director stated in June 2025, “Malaysia Airlines is committed to maintaining competitive pilot compensation to attract and retain top talent amid regional pilot shortages.” This statement comes as the Malaysia Airlines Pilots Association (MAPA) continues to negotiate for further pay increases, citing increased workloads and rising living costs in 2025. While no strikes or industrial actions are planned, these negotiations remain ongoing.
For pilots, the path to higher pay is clear but demanding. Cadet pilots start at the lower end of the pay scale, but can see rapid increases as they gain experience and move up the ranks. Promotion to First Officer and then Captain depends on flight hours, job performance, and seniority. Wide-body aircraft captains and those flying international routes earn the most, often exceeding RM 200,000 per year.
The process for salary progression at Malaysia Airlines follows a set path:
- Cadet Pilot Training: After completing training, cadets are placed on the Second Officer pay scale, earning between RM 4,229 and RM 5,668 per month.
- Fleet Assignment: Pilots are assigned to either narrow- or wide-body aircraft, with pay adjusted based on the type of plane they fly.
- Promotion: Moving up to First Officer and Captain is based on flight hours, performance, and seniority, with each step bringing a higher salary.
- Allowances: Pilots receive extra pay for international flights, overnight stays, and special assignments.
Industry analysts say Malaysia Airlines’ 2025 salary adjustments match regional trends, but warn that further increases may be needed to prevent pilots from leaving for higher-paying jobs at international airlines. As reported by VisaVerge.com, experts believe that ongoing union negotiations could lead to additional benefits or pay increases, especially for senior captains and those flying international routes.
Feedback from current Malaysia Airlines pilots shows a mix of satisfaction and concern. Many appreciate the recent pay adjustments, but some worry about increased workloads and the rising cost of living, especially in Kuala Lumpur and other major cities. One pilot shared, “The new salary bands help, but with inflation and more flights, we hope for more support in the future.”
Looking ahead, Malaysia Airlines plans to review pilot compensation again in early 2026. If regional pilot shortages continue and inflation stays high, further adjustments may follow. The airline’s ongoing talks with MAPA could also result in new benefits or pay increases.
For those considering a career as a pilot with Malaysia Airlines, the salary structure in 2025 offers a clear path for growth:
| Pilot Role | Annual Salary | Monthly Base Pay | Median Salary | Average Salary | Annual Allowances |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Second Officer/Cadet | RM 51,000 – RM 68,000 | RM 4,229 – RM 5,668 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| First Officer | RM 71,808 – RM 204,000 | RM 5,984 – RM 17,000 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Captain | RM 129,000 – RM 201,100 | N/A | RM 129,000 | RM 185,000 | N/A |
| International Pilots Allowances | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | RM 15,000 – RM 30,000 |
- Entry-level (Second Officer/Cadet): RM 51,000–RM 68,000 per year
- First Officer: RM 71,808–RM 204,000 per year
- Captain: RM 129,000–RM 201,100 per year (median: RM 129,000; average: RM 185,000)
- Allowances: RM 15,000–RM 30,000 extra per year for international pilots
All figures are current as of August 2, 2025, and reflect the latest data and policy updates.
For those interested in joining Malaysia Airlines as a pilot, the airline’s official careers page provides up-to-date information on job openings, requirements, and the application process. You can visit the Malaysia Airlines Careers page for more details. The Malaysia Airlines Pilots Association (MAPA) also offers updates on union negotiations and pilot welfare at MAPA Pilots.
The salary changes at Malaysia Airlines in 2025 have several practical implications for pilots and their families. For new pilots, the higher starting pay makes the profession more attractive, especially for those just finishing flight school. For experienced pilots, the increased pay and allowances help offset the higher cost of living in Malaysia’s major cities. The extra benefits, such as health insurance and travel perks, also add value to the overall compensation package.
For the airline, these changes are part of a broader effort to keep skilled pilots from leaving for better-paying jobs abroad. The aviation industry in Southeast Asia is facing a shortage of qualified pilots, with many airlines competing for the same pool of talent. By raising salaries and improving benefits, Malaysia Airlines hopes to keep its pilots happy and loyal.
The new salary structure also affects the wider aviation community. As Malaysia Airlines raises pay, other airlines in the region may feel pressure to do the same. This could lead to higher salaries across the industry, making it easier for airlines to attract and keep good pilots. However, it could also increase costs for airlines, which may be passed on to passengers through higher ticket prices.
| Feature | Second Officer/Cadet | First Officer | Captain |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Salary | N/A | N/A | RM 129,000 – RM 201,100 |
| Monthly Base Pay | N/A | N/A | Not specified |
| Allowances | N/A | N/A | Included in total compensation |
For those planning a career in aviation, the 2025 salary data from Malaysia Airlines offers a useful benchmark. It shows that while pilot salaries in Malaysia are not as high as those in the United States 🇺🇸 or Europe, they are competitive within Southeast Asia. The clear path for career progression, combined with regular pay reviews and union support, makes Malaysia Airlines an attractive choice for many aspiring pilots.
If you are considering a move to Malaysia for a pilot job, it’s important to understand the full compensation package, including allowances and benefits. You should also keep an eye on ongoing union negotiations, as these could lead to further improvements in pay and working conditions.
For more information about working in Malaysia and immigration requirements, you can visit the official Malaysian Immigration Department website. This site provides details on work permits, visa requirements, and other important information for foreign pilots and their families.
In summary, Malaysia Airlines’ 2025 pilot salary structure reflects the airline’s commitment to staying competitive in a challenging market. With clear pay bands, regular reviews, and strong union support, pilots can expect fair compensation and opportunities for advancement. As the aviation industry continues to evolve, Malaysia Airlines is taking steps to ensure its pilots are well-paid, well-supported, and ready to meet the demands of modern air travel.
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