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Qantas Airways vs Air New Zealand
A side-by-side comparison of pilot careers at Qantas Airways (QF) and Air New Zealand (NZ) — covering salary, fleet, requirements, and more.
Head-to-Head Comparison
Qantas Airways
Air New Zealand
Country
Australia
New Zealand
Airline Type
Major Airline
Major Airline
IATA Code
QF
NZ
Regulatory Authority
FAA
FAA
First Officer Salary
A$100,000 - A$180,000
NZ$90,000 - NZ$160,000
Captain Salary
A$220,000 - A$380,000
NZ$200,000 - NZ$340,000
Fleet
Boeing 737/787, Airbus A330/380
Airbus A320/321, Boeing 777/787
Requirements Comparison
Qantas Airways
- CASA ATPL
- 2,500+ hours total
- 500+ hours on type
- Class 1 medical
- Australian work rights
Air New Zealand
- CAA NZ ATPL
- 2,500+ hours
- Class 1 medical
- NZ residency preferred
Pros & Cons
Qantas Airways
Pros
- +Modern fleet with 787 Dreamliner
- +Simplified fleet — fewer type ratings needed
Air New Zealand
Pros
- +Modern fleet with 787 Dreamliner
- +Simplified fleet — fewer type ratings needed
About Each Airline
Qantas Airways
Australia's flag carrier and one of the world's safest airlines, offering premium routes across the Asia-Pacific and beyond.
Full Qantas Airways career guide →Air New Zealand
New Zealand's national carrier, repeatedly named the world's best airline. Known for exceptional culture and lifestyle balance.
Full Air New Zealand career guide →Calculate Your Salary
Model your earning potential at Qantas Airways or Air New Zealand based on your experience, ratings, and career stage.
Salary Calculator