RAF pay scales 2026/27
RAF pay follows the tri-service Pay16 structure: salary is set by rank, increment and trade supplement, with the 14.5% X-Factor included. The RAF renamed its junior ranks in 2021, so SAC is now Air Specialist (Class 1).
3.6% award verified · ranges indicative · Written ministerial statement, 9 June 2026
| Rank | NATO code | Salary range |
|---|---|---|
| Air Specialist (Class 1) | OR-2 | £27,282 – £41,164 |
| Corporal (entry) | OR-3 | £35,310 – £41,164 |
| Corporal | OR-4 | £40,989 – £48,497 |
| Sergeant | OR-6 | £46,022 – £56,611 |
| Flight Sergeant | OR-7 | £51,615 – £65,249 |
| Rank | NATO code | Salary range |
|---|---|---|
| Pilot Officer / Flying Officer | OF-1 | £35,925 – £47,351 |
| Flight Lieutenant | OF-2 | £54,716 – £64,852 |
| Squadron Leader | OF-3 | £68,624 – £81,960 |
| Wing Commander | OF-4 | £95,850 – £110,806 |
| Group Captain | OF-5 | £115,881 – £127,272 |
Ranges run from the lowest increment on the lowest trade supplement to the highest on the highest. The RAF's technical weighting shows in the supplements: aircraft engineering, cyberspace and air operations trades tend to sit in higher supplements than ground support roles, and aircrew have their own separate pay spine above the figures here.
Common questions
How much does the RAF pay in 2026/27?
Airmen and airwomen start around £27,282 a year after initial training, with a sergeant (OR-6) earning £46,022 to £56,611. All ranks received the 3.6% rise from 1 April 2026.
Does the RAF pay more than the other services?
No. One tri-service pay structure covers the Army, Royal Navy and RAF, so equivalent ranks earn the same; only trade supplements and service-specific allowances differ.
Is a pension deducted from RAF pay?
No. The Armed Forces Pension Scheme 2015 is non-contributory, so nothing comes out of pay for it.