Starting pilot wages were also well below average in terms of hourly rate, starting at $65,000 annually for Captains, and $30,000 for First Officers as a minimum guarantee. The average captain's earnings were about $90,000 vs $120,000 per year for a theoretical first year Captain at airlines like United Airlines (there is no first year pay at United) but in the case of Skybus this included a significant stock options and profit share package unique in the airline industry.
Pilot starting wages were also lower than standard in terms of hourly rate, with Captains beginning at $65,000 annually and First Officers receiving a minimum guarantee of $30,000. The typical captain's earnings were about $90,000 compared to $120,000 per year for a theoretical first-year Captain at airlines like United Airlines (which does not offer initial pay), but Skybus included a unique stock options and profit share package.