This International Airline Will Pay Pilots $100,000 a Year to Move Aircraft on the Ground in Chicago

British Airways is actively recruiting experienced pilots for a unique role at Chicago O’Hare International Airport, specifically designed to aid in the efficient movement of aircraft between terminals. This position, which offers an attractive salary between $90,000 and $100,000 annually, does not entail flying but focuses on taxiing planes on the ground.

The announcement comes from British Airways’ career portal, highlighting the airline’s need for skilled pilots to safely navigate Boeing 777 and 787 models between terminals at O’Hare. This role is important for maintaining punctuality and enhancing the overall operational efficiency of the airport, which is among the busiest in the United States.

The job description specifies that applicants should either be currently employed or have previously worked as airline transport pilots. A strong safety record and familiarity with the layout and protocols of Chicago O’Hare are prerequisites for candidates. British Airways flights operate from Terminal 5, where customs and border services are conducted, but due to a partnership with American Airlines, aircraft are dispatched from Terminal 3. Consequently, the need arises for pilots to taxi planes across these terminal facilities.

At some airports, ground crews typically utilise pushback tug vehicles for aircraft movement. However, at O’Hare, it is deemed safer and more efficient to use the aircraft’s own engines for ground taxiing. This method not only increases safety but also allows for a more streamlined operation at the busy airport.

Interestingly, aviation experts suggest that the role is tailored more towards semi-retired pilots rather than those in the thick of their flying careers. It presents an attractive opportunity for pilots who may no longer be eligible to fly commercial jets but are still capable of performing necessary ground manoeuvres at reduced speeds.

Although the six-figure salary for this taxi crew position appears lucrative, it does lag behind the earnings of first officers at several major U.S. airlines. According to insights from ATP Flight School, first-year pilots at American, Delta, United, Alaska, and Southwest Airlines can expect salaries exceeding $117,000, highlighting the competitive landscape for pilot compensation in the aviation sector.

British Airways currently operates daily flights from London Heathrow to Chicago, making this role essential for their service at O’Hare. The recruitment initiative aligns with the airline’s broader strategy, which recently announced an expansion plan, increasing its long-haul network by 9%. This plan includes more flights connecting from several key U.S. cities, including Baltimore, New Orleans, and Houston, with new services expected to commence in winter 2026.

The opportunity not only addresses operational needs at a critical airport but also presents a promising avenue for experienced pilots seeking a new role within the aviation industry. As travel demand continues to grow post-pandemic, British Airways appears poised to enhance its operations through strategic staffing decisions.

For those interested in applying, further details can be found on the British Airways career website, where the full job description and application process are outlined. The airline is keen to ensure a skilled and seasoned team is in place to support its expanding services in the U.S. market.