Aircraft Fueler Salary: A Comprehensive Guide for 2024
In the intricate world of aviation, few roles are as fundamentally critical as the aircraft fueler. These professionals are the lifeblood of airport operations, ensuring every flight, from a private jet to a massive cargo plane, is safely and efficiently prepared for its journey. If you're considering a hands-on career in aviation with solid earning potential, understanding the aircraft fueler salary is your first step. This guide breaks down what you can expect to earn and the key factors that can increase your pay.
What Does an Aircraft Fueler Do?
An aircraft fueler, also known as a Line Service Technician (LST) or Ramp Agent, is a specialized ground crew member responsible for the safe and accurate refueling of airplanes and helicopters. This is a role that requires precision, a deep commitment to safety protocols, and the ability to work in a fast-paced, all-weather environment.
Key responsibilities include:
- Operating refueling vehicles and equipment.
- Conducting quality control checks on aviation fuel to test for contaminants.
- Accurately calculating fuel loads based on flight plans and aircraft specifications.
- Following strict safety procedures from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the specific airline or airport.
- Documenting all fueling operations meticulously.
- Communicating effectively with the flight crew and other ground personnel.
In many settings, especially at Fixed-Base Operators (FBOs), their duties may also extend to aircraft towing, de-icing, and other ground support services.
Average Aircraft Fueler Salary
The compensation for an aircraft fueler is competitive for a role that typically does not require a college degree. While exact figures vary, we can establish a clear picture by looking at data from leading salary aggregators.
As of early 2024, the salary landscape for an aircraft fueler in the United States is as follows:
- Median Salary: According to Salary.com, the median annual salary for an aircraft fueler is $50,223. The typical range falls between $44,220 and $57,118.
- Hourly and Total Pay: Payscale.com reports an average hourly wage of $19.53. Their data shows a total annual pay range, including potential overtime and bonuses, from $36,000 to $68,000.
- Aggregated Average: Glassdoor reports a slightly higher average base pay of $54,374 per year, with a "likely range" between $45,000 and $67,000.
These figures show a consistent and solid earning potential, with significant room for growth as professionals gain experience and take on more responsibility.
Key Factors That Influence Salary
Your specific salary as an aircraft fueler isn't a single number—it's influenced by a combination of crucial factors. Understanding these variables can help you maximize your earning potential throughout your career.
### Level of Education
For an aircraft fueler, a high school diploma or GED is typically the only educational requirement. Most of the critical skills are learned through comprehensive on-the-job training. Therefore, higher education does not directly translate to a higher starting salary for this specific role. However, pursuing an associate's or bachelor's degree in aviation management or a related field can be a significant advantage for those aiming for supervisory or management positions within an FBO or airline, leading to higher long-term earnings.
### Years of Experience
Experience is one of the most significant drivers of an aircraft fueler's salary. As you build a track record of safety, reliability, and expertise, your value to an employer increases substantially.
- Entry-Level (0-2 years): New fuelers can expect to earn at the lower end of the scale, typically in the $36,000 to $45,000 range. This period is focused on mastering safety protocols and equipment operation.
- Mid-Career (3-8 years): With several years of experience, fuelers can expect to earn near the national median, from $48,000 to $58,000. They may take on training new hires or handling more complex aircraft.
- Senior/Lead Fueler (8+ years): Highly experienced professionals, especially those in a Lead or Supervisory role, can command salaries at the top of the range, often exceeding $60,000 to $70,000+. These roles involve overseeing a team, managing schedules, and ensuring compliance across all operations.
### Geographic Location
Where you work matters. Salaries for aircraft fuelers can vary dramatically based on the cost of living and the demand for aviation professionals at major airport hubs.
According to data compiled by Zippia and Salary.com, some of the highest-paying states and metropolitan areas include:
- California: Major hubs like Los Angeles (LAX) and San Francisco (SFO) drive up wages.
- New York: Airports like John F. Kennedy (JFK) and LaGuardia (LGA) offer higher pay to offset a high cost of living.
- Washington: Home to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) and significant aerospace manufacturing.
- Alaska: Unique logistical challenges and a high cost of living often lead to higher wages for aviation support roles.
Conversely, salaries may be lower in states with a lower cost of living and smaller, less busy regional airports.
### Company Type
The type of company you work for is a major determinant of your pay and benefits package.
- Major Airlines (e.g., Delta, American, United): These positions are often unionized, which typically leads to structured pay scales, guaranteed annual raises, and excellent benefits packages, including health insurance, retirement plans, and flight perks.
- Cargo Carriers (e.g., FedEx, UPS, Amazon Air): Similar to major airlines, these global logistics giants often offer highly competitive, union-backed wages and benefits. Their major hubs (like Memphis for FedEx and Louisville for UPS) are centers of high-paying ground crew jobs.
- Fixed-Base Operators (FBOs) (e.g., Signature Flight Support, Atlantic Aviation): FBOs service private and corporate jets. Salaries can be very competitive, and there is often an opportunity to earn tips from high-net-worth clients, which can significantly boost overall income.
- Government and Military Contractors: Working for a contractor that services government or military aircraft can provide stable employment with competitive, predictable pay.
### Area of Specialization
While "aircraft fueler" is the core job, developing specialized skills can increase your value. Certifications like the NATA Safety 1st Professional Line Service Training (PLST) are often required and demonstrate a commitment to the profession. Additional skills that can command higher pay include:
- Fuel Quality Assurance: Specializing in the technical aspects of fuel testing and quality control.
- De-icing Operations: Being certified and experienced in aircraft de-icing is a valuable winter skill.
- Supervisory Roles: Moving into a Line Service Supervisor or Ramp Manager position is the most direct path to a higher salary.
Job Outlook
The career outlook for aircraft fuelers and related ground crew positions is stable and tied directly to the health of the airline industry. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects growth for the broader category of "Hand Laborers and Material Movers," which includes ground crew.
The BLS projects that employment for "Ground and Cargo Handlers" will grow by 6 percent from 2022 to 2032, which is faster than the average for all occupations. The BLS anticipates about 129,500 openings for these roles each year, on average, over the decade. This demand is driven by the constant need to replace workers who retire or change careers and the overall growth in air travel and cargo shipping. As long as planes fly, there will be a steady demand for skilled and reliable aircraft fuelers.
Conclusion
A career as an aircraft fueler offers a direct entry point into the exciting world of aviation with a solid and dependable salary. While a high school diploma is often the only educational prerequisite, your earning potential is far from static. By gaining experience, embracing a safety-first mindset, and strategically choosing your location and employer, you can build a rewarding and financially secure career. For the hands-on individual looking for a vital role at the heart of the action, the path of an aircraft fueler is one of great promise and opportunity.