
Aircraft fuelers are responsible for ensuring that aircraft are equipped with fuel and that they fly safely and efficiently. The job requires a comprehensive understanding of aircraft systems, safety protocols, and environmental regulations. The salary for aircraft fuelers varies depending on location and experience. In the US, the average hourly pay is $18.12, with the average annual salary being $38 per hour. In Australia, the average salary is AUD 89,000 to AUD 90,000, while in India, a high school diploma and a valid driver's license are required to qualify for the role.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Average hourly pay for an Aircraft Fueler in the US | $18.12 |
| Hourly pay range | $11.54–$27.40 |
| Average hourly pay in New York | $20 |
| Average annual salary | $37,700–$80,076 |
| Average annual salary range | $66,918–$92,084 |
| Average base salary | $73,189–$86,361 |
| Average total cash compensation | $72,041–$89,643 |
| Average annual salary in Australia | $56,322.70–$56,955.54 |
| Average base pay in Australia | $42,400.23–$57,588.38 |
| Starting wage in Florida | $13.50 |
| Starting wage in Portugal | $15.50 |
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What You'll Learn

Salary by location
An aircraft fueler's salary varies depending on location. As of July 1, 2025, the average annual salary for an aircraft fueler in the US is $80,076, equivalent to $38 per hour. However, salaries vary widely across the country, ranging from $66,918 to $92,084 per year. The average hourly rate for an aircraft fueler in the US is $18.12, with wages as high as $27.40 and as low as $11.54. New York ranks third out of 50 states for aircraft fueler salaries, with an average hourly wage of $20.
In Australia, the average airline fueler salary is around AUD 89,000 to AUD 90,000 per year, equivalent to $56,322.70 to $56,955.54 in US dollars. The base pay for aircraft fuelers in Australia ranges from AUD 67,000 to AUD 91,000 per year, or $42,400.23 to $57,588.38 in US dollars.
In India, the minimum qualifications to become an aircraft fueler include being over 18 years old, having a high school diploma, and possessing a valid driver's license. While I could not find specific salary information for aircraft fuelers in India, the minimum qualifications suggest that the salary may be lower than in countries with higher qualification requirements.
Location and experience significantly influence earnings for aircraft fuelers. For example, aircraft fuelers in high-growth sectors or high-paying regions, such as the District of Columbia or California, tend to earn more. Additionally, gaining advanced degrees, changing employers, and managing experience can all lead to higher pay.
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Salary by experience
The salary of an aircraft fueler varies depending on experience. As of July 1, 2025, the average hourly pay for an Aircraft Fueler in the United States is $18.12 per hour. Hourly wages can be as high as $27.40 and as low as $11.54. However, most Aircraft Fueler wages range from $15.38 (25th percentile) to $18.75 (75th percentile). In New York, an Aircraft Fueler makes an average of $20 per hour, which is higher than the national average.
In 2021, a Reddit user commented that they were hired at $15.50 per hour, and they were told that in four years, they could be earning close to $30 per hour. The same user also mentioned that with overtime, some people make close to $90,000 per year.
In Australia, the average airline fueler salary is AUD 89,000 to AUD 90,000 per year, which is equivalent to $56,322.70 to $56,955.54 in US dollars. The base pay in Australia ranges from AUD 67,000 to AUD 91,000 per year, which is equivalent to $42,400.23 to $57,588.38 in US dollars.
According to another source, the average annual salary for an Aircraft Fueler in the US is $80,076, which is equivalent to $38 per hour. Salaries for this position in the US range from $66,918 to $92,084 per year, with most professionals earning between the 25th percentile ($73,189) and the 75th percentile ($86,361). The top earners (90th percentile) make $92,084 per year.
Aircraft fuelers can increase their pay by changing employers, gaining advanced degrees, or managing more junior aircraft fuelers. Additionally, salaries can vary depending on the location, with some cities and states offering higher salaries due to demand or a lower cost of living.
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Salary by skill
The salary of an aircraft fueler varies depending on several factors, including location, level of education, experience, and skills.
Location
Aircraft fuelers in the United States earn an average hourly wage of $18.12, with the majority of wages ranging from $15.38 (25th percentile) to $18.75 (75th percentile). However, in certain cities like New York, the average hourly wage can be as high as $20.
In Australia, the average annual salary for an aircraft fueler is between AUD 89,000 and AUD 90,000, with a base pay ranging from AUD 67,000 to AUD 91,000.
Within the US, certain states like California and the District of Columbia offer higher salaries due to high demand from companies and startups.
Level of Education
Obtaining advanced degrees or specialized certifications can increase income potential and qualify fuelers for promotions. Courses in aviation fuel management, ground handling, or the IATA Aviation Fuel Management Essentials course can provide valuable skills and knowledge for this career.
Experience
Experience plays a crucial role in determining the salary of an aircraft fueler. Those with more experience or those who oversee junior fuelers can expect to earn higher wages. Additionally, some employers may offer guaranteed raises with each year of service, contributing to salary growth over time.
Skills
Certain skills can enhance the earning potential of aircraft fuelers. Specialized skills like customer service, aircraft maintenance, and a comprehensive understanding of aircraft systems, safety protocols, and environmental regulations can lead to higher-paying positions. Additionally, possessing soft skills such as communication, teamwork, language proficiency, and problem-solving abilities are highly valued by employers.
While the salary range for aircraft fuelers can vary, gaining experience, acquiring specialized skills, and targeting high-demand locations can significantly impact earning potential and career advancement opportunities.
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Salary by employer
As of July 1, 2025, the average annual salary for an aircraft fueler in the US is $80,076, equivalent to $38 per hour, $1,540 weekly, or $6,673 monthly. The base salary for aircraft fuelers ranges from $66,918 to $92,084 annually, with most professionals falling between the 25th percentile ($73,189) and 75th percentile ($86,361). The top earners (90th percentile) can make up to $92,084 per year.
Aircraft fuelers' salaries can vary depending on the employer, with some companies offering higher pay than others. For example, FlightSafety International and Hawthorne Global Aviation Services are known for paying their aircraft fuelers relatively well. On the other hand, companies like Outagamie County and Menzies Aviation offer highly competitive salaries for aircraft fuelers, which may provide a good starting point for those entering the field.
In addition to the employer, other factors such as location and experience also play a significant role in determining the salary for aircraft fuelers. For instance, aircraft fuelers in high-growth sectors or high-paying regions like the District of Columbia often earn above-average salaries due to higher demand and market conditions.
It is worth noting that the hourly wage rates for aircraft fuelers can range from as low as $11.54 to as high as $27.40 across the United States. The average hourly rate is $18.12, with most wages falling between $15.38 (25th percentile) and $18.75 (75th percentile).
Internationally, the average airline fueler salary in Australia is around AUD 89,000 to AUD 90,000 ($56,322.70 to $56,955.54) per year, with a base pay ranging from AUD 67,000 to AUD 91,000 ($42,400.23 to $57,588.38).
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Salary by education
The salary of an aircraft fueler at an airport varies depending on several factors, including location, education, and experience. While the minimum qualifications to become an aircraft fueler are not extensive, certain certifications and specialized training can impact salary potential.
In the United States, the average hourly pay for an aircraft fueler as of July 2025 is $18.12, with wages ranging from $11.54 to $27.40 per hour. The salary can vary significantly depending on the state and city. For example, New York offers an average hourly wage of $20, which is higher than the national average. The highest-paying states for aircraft fuelers include Nevada, Colorado, and Washington, with North Las Vegas, Denver, and Seattle being the top-paying cities. In contrast, states like Arkansas, Kansas, and Michigan have lower average salaries for this profession.
In Australia, the average annual salary for an airline fueler is between AUD 89,000 and AUD 90,000, which equates to approximately $56,322 to $56,955 in US dollars. The base pay range is between AUD 67,000 and AUD 91,000, or $42,400 to $57,588 annually. To obtain these positions in Australia, a high school diploma and a Certificate III or IV in relevant fields, such as driving operations, are typically required.
While education and certifications can impact salary, experience also plays a crucial role. In some cases, individuals may start as fuelers and later advance to lead or supervisory positions, which offer higher pay. Additionally, working for a military base or a company with better pay and benefits can also influence earnings.
It is worth noting that aircraft fuelers are often contracted out, and their salaries may be lower compared to those employed directly by airlines. However, opportunities for overtime and tips, particularly in FBO fueling private planes, can supplement their income.
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