Pilotengehalt: Das verdienen Lufthansa-Piloten 2026

Lufthansa pilots are demanding higher compensation for their work in the Vereinigung Cockpit (VC) committee in 2026. The company had previously canceled an agreement allowing pilots to be excused from duties and receive credit for hours spent on VC committees. The dispute centers on pension contributions, with the VC seeking more benefits while the management argues about Lufthansa's weak economic condition.

The company's restructuring efforts to exit the loss zone also play a role. Lufthansa and Eurowings currently pay around 120,000 euros for pilot training at the European Flight Academy, with the rest being pre-financed. Upon completing training, new pilots must pay back the remainder as their annual income reaches at least 30,000 euros.

First officers at Lufthansa start at 88,600 euros per year, while captains can earn up to 281,300 euros in their highest seniority level. Eurowings pilots begin at around 70,200 euros for a first officer, significantly less than Lufthansa's. Various factors, such as the type of aircraft and years of experience, influence pilot salaries.

Lufthansa pilots have enjoyed special rights, including a minimum fleet size during the pandemic, which allowed co-pilots to accumulate more flight hours and higher pay. However, this arrangement was canceled unilaterally by the management. The VC plans to take the matter to court to clarify the situation.