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Volaris vs Aeromexico

A side-by-side comparison of pilot careers at Volaris (Y4) and Aeromexico (AM) — covering salary, fleet, requirements, and more.

Head-to-Head Comparison

Volaris
Aeromexico
Country
Mexico
Mexico
Airline Type
Low-Cost Carrier
Major Airline
IATA Code
Y4
AM
Regulatory Authority
DGAC
DGAC
First Officer Salary
$30,000 - $55,000
$35,000 - $65,000
Captain Salary
$80,000 - $140,000
$90,000 - $160,000
Fleet
Airbus A320/321neo
Boeing 737 MAX/787, Embraer E190

Requirements Comparison

Volaris

  • DGAC ATPL
  • Class 1 medical
  • Airbus type rating
  • Spanish proficiency
  • Mexican work authorization

Aeromexico

  • DGAC ATPL
  • 1,500+ hours
  • Class 1 medical
  • Spanish and English proficiency

Pros & Cons

Volaris

Pros

  • +Faster career progression
  • +Simplified fleet — fewer type ratings needed

Cons

  • Higher workload with quick turnarounds
  • Lower starting FO salary compared to US/Gulf carriers
  • Type rating required before application

Aeromexico

Pros

  • +Modern fleet with 787 Dreamliner
  • +Simplified fleet — fewer type ratings needed

Cons

  • Lower starting FO salary compared to US/Gulf carriers

About Each Airline

Volaris

Mexico's largest ultra-low-cost carrier, rapidly expanding across Mexico, Central America, and the United States.

Full Volaris career guide →

Aeromexico

Mexico's flag carrier and SkyTeam member operates domestic and international routes from Mexico City.

Full Aeromexico career guide →

Calculate Your Salary

Model your earning potential at Volaris or Aeromexico based on your experience, ratings, and career stage.

Salary Calculator

Test Your Knowledge

Study DGAC theory questions with our free interactive quiz.

Practice Quiz