The Rich Somers Report Is this the BEST Time Ever to Become a Pilot? | Captain Curt E415
Oct 25, 2025
Captain Curt, a seasoned commercial airline pilot, reveals why now might be the best moment to become a pilot. He highlights lucrative starting salaries, showcasing how new pilots can earn six figures quickly. Curt explains tactics like double-pay trips that allow pilots to maximize earnings while minimizing flight hours. The conversation covers the rapid path to becoming an airline pilot in just 2–3 years and discusses the significant pay rates at airlines like Delta and United. With a pilot shortage looming, Curt encourages aspiring aviators to seize the unparalleled opportunities in aviation.
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Major Pilot Pay Has Become Exceptional
- Pilot pay has exploded at majors like Delta, with some captains nearing $1M by "working the system."
- High base pay plus profit sharing and strategic trip selection create outsized earnings for savvy pilots.
Game The Schedule To Maximize Income
- Watch schedules and trade for double-pay or short high-pay flights to maximize income and days off.
- Target short flights that pay the same as long flights, then wave trips to get multiple days paid for minimal flying.
Dad Cashed In By Playing The Contract
- Captain Curt recounts his dad playing the system to earn triple pay months and still keep half the month off.
- He monitored trips constantly and picked double-pay opportunities to maximize pay with minimal flying.