How much does a Flight navigator make

  1. Salary statistics
  2. Flight navigator
Image that illustrates Flight navigator

Flight navigator

69 800 kr

Pilots etc.

53 200 - 87 500 kr / month

Transport

What will be the salary after tax?

Salary progression Flight navigator

Average salary 69 800 kr
Males 70 000 kr
Females 0 kr
1 Likes 0 Comments 3 Vacant jobs ->

What does a flight navigator do? – Tasks and work environment

A flight navigator is responsible for planning, executing, and monitoring navigation during flights, especially within military and specialized civilian aviation. Tasks include precise route planning, position calculations, instrument monitoring, and direct communication with pilots and crew members. Flight navigators often work in teams in the aircraft cockpit and bear a significant responsibility for safety and efficiency during flights. The work environment is dynamic and may involve working under pressure, both day and night, as well as periods abroad depending on the mission.

Salary development over time

The salary for a flight navigator has shown a downward trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 74,400 SEK per month, which decreased to 71 200 SEK in 2023 and further to 69 800 SEK in 2024. The total decrease amounts to approximately 6.2% over the period. This decline can be explained by several factors, including changes in demand for the profession, increased competition from technological aids, and possibly reduced recruitment in certain sectors. Despite the lower salary level, flight navigators' compensation remains very high compared to many other transport sector professions, reflecting both the responsibility and high skill requirements.

Flight navigator salary – complete overview

  • Average salary: 69 800 SEK/month
  • Lowest salary: 53,200 SEK/month (female, public sector, post-secondary education less than 3 years)
  • Highest salary: 87,500 SEK/month (male, public sector, high school education up to 2 years)
  • Hourly wage (average): 420 SEK
  • Gender differences: Men earn an average of 70 000 SEK, and the highest known salary for women is 74,700 SEK
  • Regional differences: Data on regional variations is unavailable

Education and qualifications

To work as a flight navigator, a specialized education in aviation is usually required, often with a military background or through civilian flight schools with additional courses. The education includes both theoretical and practical components, such as advanced navigation, flight safety, and crew cooperation. Practical training and certifications are essential to obtain the necessary licenses.

  • Formal education: Military flight training or civilian flight school with navigation specialization (2–4 years)
  • Certifications: Navigator certificate, possibly additional licenses depending on aircraft type
  • Internship/training: Extensive practical training in simulators and supervised flights
  • Prerequisites: Good physical health, technical understanding, and mathematical skills
  • Advice for applicants: Military background or technical education facilitates admission

The role of the flight navigator has evolved with technological development, but the profession still requires a unique combination of analytical ability and quick decision-making – especially in unforeseen situations where automated systems are insufficient.

– statsskuld.se

Common benefits and compensations

Flight navigators are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, extra health insurance, wellness allowances, and opportunities for skills development. Travel and per diems may be added during international missions, and access to personnel housing is sometimes available for longer assignments.

Competition and challenges

The competition within the profession is relatively high because the number of training places and positions is limited, especially within military and government operations. A significant challenge is rapid technological development, where some navigation tasks are automated, potentially affecting demand for the role. Flight navigators must also continuously stay updated on changing regulations and new technology, while maintaining high standards of precision and teamwork. The job market is periodically influenced by changes in the aviation industry and defense sector, which can cause variations in recruitment needs.

Tips for aspiring flight navigators

To succeed as a flight navigator, it is beneficial to develop analytical skills and technical understanding early on, as the profession requires quick decisions and accuracy. Being resilient under stress is crucial, especially in unexpected situations requiring rapid re-prioritization. Good teamwork skills are central, as work is always in teams and communication must be clear and precise. Attention to detail and a methodical approach facilitate both training and daily work, while a continuous willingness to learn new skills is vital to keep up with rapid technological changes. Gaining experience with advanced technical systems, such as through hobbies like model flying or simulators, can also be a valuable step.

Key facts about flight navigators

  • Education level: Military or civilian flight training (2–4 years)
  • Work environment: Cockpit in aircraft, often international missions
  • Professional group: Pilots and others
  • Job openings: 412 jobs in the profession (May 2024)
  • Technical requirements: High ability to handle advanced navigation systems

Career paths and future outlook

After 3–5 years in the profession, a flight navigator can advance to senior positions within the crew, such as instructor or training manager, and participate in development projects related to new navigation systems. Transitioning to pilot training or specialist roles in flight safety is also possible. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, no specific forecast for job opportunities for flight navigators exists, but within the pilot group, there are 412 available jobs. Since the role is specialized and technology-driven, future demand may be affected by automation and changing needs in defense and civil aviation. Flexibility and ongoing skills development are therefore important for long-term career prospects.

Frequently asked questions about flight navigators

  • What does a flight navigator earn?
    - The average salary is 69 800 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience and sector.
  • How does one become a flight navigator?
    - Through military or civilian flight training with specialization in navigation and practical experience.
  • Are there salary differences between men and women?
    - Yes, men earn an average of 70 000 SEK, and the highest known salary for women is 74,700 SEK.
  • What work environments are typical?
    - Work mainly takes place in the aircraft cockpit, often during international missions and shift work.
  • What are the future prospects?
    - No specific forecasts are available, but there are 412 job openings in the pilot and related groups.
  • What education is required?
    - Military or civilian flight training, often 2–4 years including certification and practical training.

Richard Andersson

Richard Andersson - 2025-07-14 06:27:26

Occupation
Who has the highest salary?
The highest salary for a Flight navigator is 87500 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Public sector with a upper secondary education, maximum 2 years. The highest salary for a woman in this profession is 74700 kr.
Who has the lowest salary?
The lowest salary for a Flight navigator is 53200 kr. This salary belongs to a woman also working in the Public sector. The lowest salary for a man in this profession is 62900 kr.
Salary distributed by age and sector
Age Women's salary as a percentage of men's Base salary Monthly salary
25-34 48800 kr 51500 kr
35-44 55900 kr 58100 kr
45-54 72500 kr 74000 kr
55-64 94400 kr 95700 kr
Snitt 67900 kr 69800 kr
* Empty columns indicate that the statistical data was insufficient to allow for a statistically significant conclusion.
Salary per sector
Salary based on education
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About the data

All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.

All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.

Profession Flight navigator has the SSYK code 3153, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.

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