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Air Canada vs WestJet
A side-by-side comparison of pilot careers at Air Canada (AC) and WestJet (WS) — covering salary, fleet, requirements, and more.
Head-to-Head Comparison
Air Canada
WestJet
Country
Canada
Canada
Airline Type
Major Airline
Major Airline
IATA Code
AC
WS
Regulatory Authority
FAA
FAA
First Officer Salary
C$80,000 - C$150,000
C$70,000 - C$130,000
Captain Salary
C$180,000 - C$300,000
C$160,000 - C$260,000
Fleet
Boeing 737 MAX/767/777/787, Airbus A220/319/320/321/330
Boeing 737 MAX/767, Bombardier Q400
Requirements Comparison
Air Canada
- Transport Canada ATPL
- Class 1 medical
- Canadian work authorization
- Bilingual (English/French) an asset
WestJet
- Transport Canada ATPL
- 3,000+ hours total
- 1,000+ on type
- Class 1 medical
Pros & Cons
Air Canada
Pros
- +Modern fleet with 787 Dreamliner
- +Simplified fleet — fewer type ratings needed
WestJet
Pros
- +Simplified fleet — fewer type ratings needed
Cons
- –High minimum hour requirements (3,000+)
- –Lower starting FO salary compared to US/Gulf carriers
About Each Airline
Air Canada
Canada's flag carrier operates global routes from hubs in Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver.
Full Air Canada career guide →WestJet
Canada's second-largest carrier, WestJet has evolved from LCC to full-service airline with international routes.
Full WestJet career guide →Calculate Your Salary
Model your earning potential at Air Canada or WestJet based on your experience, ratings, and career stage.
Salary Calculator