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FedEx Express vs American Airlines
A side-by-side comparison of pilot careers at FedEx Express (FX) and American Airlines (AA) — covering salary, fleet, requirements, and more.
Head-to-Head Comparison
FedEx Express
American Airlines
Country
United States
United States
Airline Type
Cargo Airline
Major Airline
IATA Code
FX
AA
Regulatory Authority
FAA
FAA
First Officer Salary
$100,000 - $220,000
$90,000 - $200,000
Captain Salary
$280,000 - $400,000+
$250,000 - $400,000+
Fleet
Boeing 757, 767, 777, MD-11, Airbus A300
Boeing 737, 777, 787, Airbus A319/320/321
Requirements Comparison
FedEx Express
- ATP certificate
- 1,500+ hours total time
- 500+ hours turbine PIC
- FAA Class 1 medical
- Excellent safety record
American Airlines
- ATP certificate
- 1,500+ hours total time
- FAA Class 1 medical
- FCC Restricted Radiotelephone permit
- US work authorization
- 4-year degree preferred
Pros & Cons
FedEx Express
Pros
- +Industry-leading captain pay
- +Daytime flexibility with cargo schedule
- +Large domestic route network
Cons
- –Primarily night flying operations
American Airlines
Pros
- +Industry-leading captain pay
- +Modern fleet with 787 Dreamliner
- +Large domestic route network
About Each Airline
FedEx Express
FedEx Express is one of the highest-paying airlines in the world. Cargo operations mean primarily night flying but excellent compensation and schedules.
Full FedEx Express career guide →American Airlines
The world's largest airline by fleet size, American Airlines is based in Fort Worth, Texas and operates an extensive domestic and international network.
Full American Airlines career guide →Calculate Your Salary
Model your earning potential at FedEx Express or American Airlines based on your experience, ratings, and career stage.
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