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Etihad Airways vs Saudia (Saudi Arabian Airlines)
A side-by-side comparison of pilot careers at Etihad Airways (EY) and Saudia (Saudi Arabian Airlines) (SV) — covering salary, fleet, requirements, and more.
Head-to-Head Comparison
Etihad Airways
Saudia (Saudi Arabian Airlines)
Country
United Arab Emirates
Saudi Arabia
Airline Type
Major International Airline
Major Airline
IATA Code
EY
SV
Regulatory Authority
EASA
EASA
First Officer Salary
$95,000 - $140,000 (tax-free)
$80,000 - $130,000 (tax-free)
Captain Salary
$180,000 - $300,000 (tax-free)
$160,000 - $280,000 (tax-free)
Fleet
Airbus A321/350, Boeing 777/787
Airbus A320/321/330, Boeing 777/787
Requirements Comparison
Etihad Airways
- ICAO ATPL
- 3,000+ hours total time
- 1,500+ on multi-crew aircraft
- Valid Class 1 medical
Saudia (Saudi Arabian Airlines)
- ICAO ATPL
- 2,500+ hours
- 1,000+ on type
- Class 1 medical
Pros & Cons
Etihad Airways
Pros
- +Tax-free salary
- +Modern fleet with 787 Dreamliner
- +Simplified fleet — fewer type ratings needed
- +Tax-free jurisdiction
Cons
- –High minimum hour requirements (3,000+)
- –Relocation to the Middle East required
Saudia (Saudi Arabian Airlines)
Pros
- +Tax-free salary
- +Modern fleet with 787 Dreamliner
- +Simplified fleet — fewer type ratings needed
- +Tax-free jurisdiction
Cons
- –Relocation to the Middle East required
- –Lower starting FO salary compared to US/Gulf carriers
About Each Airline
Etihad Airways
Abu Dhabi's flagship carrier offers tax-free compensation and operates a modern fleet to destinations worldwide.
Full Etihad Airways career guide →Saudia (Saudi Arabian Airlines)
Saudi Arabia's flag carrier is expanding rapidly as part of the kingdom's Vision 2030 aviation growth strategy.
Full Saudia (Saudi Arabian Airlines) career guide →Calculate Your Salary
Model your earning potential at Etihad Airways or Saudia (Saudi Arabian Airlines) based on your experience, ratings, and career stage.
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