Aer Lingus Pilot Career Guide
Ireland's flag carrier, now part of IAG, operates transatlantic and European routes from Dublin and Shannon.
First Officer Salary
€55,000 - €90,000
Captain Salary
€120,000 - €190,000
Salary Progression
Year 1 FO
€60,000
Year 5 FO
€82,000
Year 10 Captain
€155,000
Year 20 Captain
€185,000
Bonuses & Perks
Annual performance bonus. Seniority increments. Transatlantic flying supplements.
Retirement
Irish Revenue-approved pension scheme with employer contributions.
Pilot Reviews & Ratings
Based on pilot forum data
Pros
- Ireland's flag carrier with strong transatlantic network
- US preclearance at Dublin and Shannon is unique advantage
- Part of IAG group providing financial stability
- Dublin offers good quality of life with English-speaking environment
- Strong pilot union (IALPA) representation
Cons
- Pay below UK and Northern European carriers
- Dublin cost of living has risen sharply (especially housing)
- Smaller fleet limits upgrade and variety opportunities
- Irish tax rates are moderately high
- Competition from Ryanair at Dublin base
Fleet & Routes
| Aircraft | Count | Routes |
|---|---|---|
| Airbus A320/A321 | 39 | European and UK short-haul |
| Airbus A321neo/LR | 16 | European and short transatlantic |
| Airbus A330-300 | 12 | Transatlantic to North America |
Interview & Selection Process
Application through Aer Lingus pilot careers
Online aptitude and cognitive testing
Technical assessment (aircraft systems, regulations)
Panel interview with training captains and HR
Simulator assessment on Airbus A330 or A320
Medical examination and background check
Pilot Lifestyle
Work Schedule
Typically 70-75 block hours/month. Mix of European short-haul and transatlantic long-haul. Good duty time regulations.
Home Base
Dublin Airport is the main base. Shannon provides US preclearance advantage for transatlantic routes.
Travel Benefits
Standby on IAG group airlines (BA, Iberia, Vueling). Oneworld travel benefits. Staff fares on Aer Lingus.
Commutable?
Limited — may require relocation
Hubs & Pilot Bases
Main Hubs
Pilot Bases
Cadet Program
Aer Lingus Future Pilot Programme
Ab-initio cadet programme in partnership with FTE Jerez providing pathway to type-rated First Officer at Aer Lingus.
Union & Representation
Pilots at Aer Lingus are represented by Irish Air Line Pilots Association (IALPA/FORSA).
Latest Developments
Aer Lingus A321LR expanding transatlantic network to secondary US cities
IALPA industrial action in 2024 over pay parity with IAG peers
Dublin Airport capacity constraints impacting Aer Lingus growth plans
Pilot Requirements
EASA ATPL
Class 1 medical
EU right to work
500+ hours multi-crew
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