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United Airlines vs American Airlines
A side-by-side comparison of pilot careers at United Airlines (UA) and American Airlines (AA) — covering salary, fleet, requirements, and more.
Head-to-Head Comparison
United Airlines
American Airlines
Country
United States
United States
Airline Type
Major Airline
Major Airline
IATA Code
UA
AA
Regulatory Authority
FAA
FAA
First Officer Salary
$90,000 - $200,000
$90,000 - $200,000
Captain Salary
$250,000 - $400,000+
$250,000 - $400,000+
Fleet
Boeing 737, 757, 767, 777, 787, Airbus A319/320/321
Boeing 737, 777, 787, Airbus A319/320/321
Requirements Comparison
United Airlines
- ATP certificate
- 1,500+ hours total time
- FAA Class 1 medical
- 1,000+ hours PIC preferred
- 4-year degree preferred
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
United Airlines
Pros
- +Industry-leading captain pay
- +Modern fleet with 787 Dreamliner
- +Diverse fleet with many type rating opportunities
- +Large domestic route network
Cons
- –Longer wait for specific type ratings due to fleet size
American Airlines
Pros
- +Industry-leading captain pay
- +Modern fleet with 787 Dreamliner
- +Large domestic route network
About Each Airline
United Airlines
United Airlines operates a massive global network from its hubs in Newark, Chicago, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Washington.
Full United Airlines 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 United Airlines or American Airlines based on your experience, ratings, and career stage.
Salary Calculator