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Aircraft Rescue Salary information

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$69

How much do aircraft rescue salary jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for aircraft rescue salary in the United States is $35.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $49.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What's the highest paid job in aviation?

In aviation, airline pilots, especially captains of large commercial aircraft, tend to be the highest paid roles, with salaries often exceeding $200,000 annually. These positions require extensive experience, certifications, and often involve irregular schedules and long hours.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Aircraft Rescue Firefighter, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Aircraft Rescue Firefighter, you need specialized training in firefighting, emergency medical response, and knowledge of aircraft operations, usually supported by certifications such as Firefighter I/II and Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF). Familiarity with firefighting vehicles, rescue tools, communication systems, and hazardous materials handling is essential. Quick decision-making, teamwork, physical fitness, and strong communication skills help individuals excel in high-pressure, emergency situations. These skills and qualities are critical for ensuring the safety of passengers, crew, and airport facilities during aviation emergencies.

What is the average salary for an aircraft rescue firefighter?

The average salary for an aircraft rescue firefighters, also known as ARFF (Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting) personnel, varies depending on location, experience, and employer. In the United States, the median annual salary typically ranges from $40,000 to $60,000, with some positions at major airports or with significant experience earning upwards of $70,000 or more. Benefits, overtime opportunities, and cost of living in the area can also affect total compensation.

How to become an arff?

To become an Aircraft Rescue Firefighter (ARFF), candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, emergency response training, and certification such as Firefighter I and II. Additional qualifications include physical fitness, experience with firefighting equipment, and often specialized training in aircraft rescue and hazardous materials response. Some positions require a valid driver's license and the ability to work in a high-pressure environment around aircraft.

What is the difference between Aircraft Rescue Salary vs Firefighter?

AspectAircraft RescueFirefighter
Required CertificationsFirefighter certification, rescue trainingFirefighter certification, emergency medical training
Work EnvironmentAirports, aircraft rescue zonesFire stations, emergency scenes
Employer & IndustryAirlines, airportsMunicipalities, government agencies

Both Aircraft Rescue and Firefighters require similar certifications and work in emergency response environments. Aircraft Rescue personnel focus on airport and aircraft-specific rescue operations, while Firefighters serve broader community emergency needs. Salary differences reflect industry demands and specialized training, but both roles are vital in emergency services.

How hard is it to become an air force firefighter?

Becoming an Air Force firefighter requires meeting basic military enlistment standards, completing specialized training at the Fire Academy, and obtaining relevant certifications such as firefighter I and II. Candidates must pass physical fitness tests, background checks, and medical examinations, making the process competitive but achievable with proper preparation.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) roles?

Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting professionals often encounter unique challenges, such as responding to high-pressure emergencies involving hazardous materials, aviation fuel fires, and potential mass casualty situations. These roles require maintaining constant readiness, ongoing training, and physical fitness to meet strict safety standards. Teamwork is essential, as ARFF teams must coordinate closely with airport personnel, local emergency services, and air traffic control during incidents. The unpredictable nature of emergencies and shift work can also present challenges in maintaining work-life balance.

What is the highest paid type of firefighter?

Aircraft rescue firefighters, who specialize in responding to emergencies at airports and often require specialized training and certifications, tend to have higher salaries compared to other firefighter roles due to the specialized environment and skills needed. Salaries can vary based on location, experience, and agency, but aircraft rescue roles generally offer higher compensation within the firefighting field.
What cities are hiring for Aircraft Rescue Salary jobs? Cities with the most Aircraft Rescue Salary job openings:
What states have the most Aircraft Rescue Salary jobs? States with the most job openings for Aircraft Rescue Salary jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Aircraft Rescue Salary jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Aircraft Rescue Salary jobs are:
Aircraft Rescue Salary jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aircraft Rescue Salary job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,696 per year, or $35.4 per hour.
AVIATION BOATSWAINS MATE, AIRCRAFT HANDLING

AVIATION BOATSWAINS MATE, AIRCRAFT HANDLING

U.S. Navy

Green Bay, WI • On-site

Part-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 29 days ago

United States Navy rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 378 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

38th of 46 rated military and defense

Job description

Modern aircraft carriers are capable of launching aircraft every 20 seconds. That means the flight deck can get pretty busy, so solid management and communication are essential to preventing chaos. As an Aviation Boatswain’s Mate – Aircraft Handling (ABH), you ensure smooth launch and recovery operations by carefully directing the movement of all aircraft. Supervise every turn, tow and park, and secure them to the deck. Wherever they go, you’ll be the guide.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Aviation Boatswain’s Mate – Aircraft Handling (ABH) Sailors supervise the movement of Naval aircraft and perform rescue duties when necessary. In this role, specific responsibilities may include:

  • Assisting with the launch and recovery of aircraft
  • Spotting and securing aircraft and equipment
  • Performing crash rescue and crash removal duties in connection with aircraft launch and recovery
  • Firefighting and damage control duties
  • Operating and maintaining ground-handling equipment used for moving and hoisting aircraft

WORK ENVIRONMENT

  • Most of the work in this rating is performed outdoors on the flight decks of amphibious and aircraft carriers, in all climates and conditions, including hazardous environments. The work is fast-paced and ABHs typically work closely with others in aviation ratings. You will not spend your entire career at sea; you may also work with an aircraft squadron during a shore duty rotation.

QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

  • U.S. citizen or equivalent
  • High school graduate or equivalent
  • 17 years of age or older

PAY AND BENEFITS

From the day you start, you’ll receive:

  • Competitive salary
  • Potential to earn a bonus upon enlistment
  • Free health insurance
  • Free housing
  • A retirement plan
  • Paid training

EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES

  • Navy College Program and Tuition Assistance
  • Post-9/11 GI Bill, up to 100% tuition
  • Professional credentials and certifications
  • College credit hours toward a bachelor’s or associate degree through the American Council on Education

PART-TIME OPPORTUNITIES

  • Serving part-time as a Navy Reserve Sailor, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Aviation Boatswain’s Mates in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes.
  • For annual training, you may serve anywhere in the world, including locations in the U.S., at bases overseas, or in areas where humanitarian needs are great.

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About US Navy

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Industry

National security, national security and international affairs, public safety statistics centers and offices, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

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