Have you ever dreamed of designing spacecraft that explore the far reaches of our solar system or developing aircraft that push the boundaries of flight? Aerospace engineering offers the opportunity to turn these dreams into reality.
In terms of aerospace engineering salary, it can be highly rewarding. In India, you can earn over INR 30L per year, while in the United States, you can command salaries exceeding INR 1.3 crore ($1.6L) annually.
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Interested to learn more about aerospace engineering salary? Dive deeper into the prospects of aerospace engineering in India and around the world.
Key Highlights
Here is a list of all the important topics you will come across in this blog on aerospace engineering salary and prospects.
| Topic | Key Highlights |
| Aerospace Engineering Salary in India (Monthly) | Entry-level: INR 3L – INR 6L Mid-level: INR 6L – INR 12L Senior-level: INR 10L – INR 30L |
| Aerospace Engineer Average Salary in the U.S (Annual) | Entry-level: INR 63.6L ($76k) Mid-level: INR 83.7L ($1L) Senior-level: INR 1 crore ($1.3L) |
| Average Aerospace Engineering Salary in the U.K (Annual) | Entry-level: INR 53.2L (£50k) Mid-level: INR 69.2L (£65k) Senior-level: INR 85.2L (£80k) |
| Average Aerospace Engineering Salary in Germany (Annual) | Entry-level: INR 40.7L (€45k) Mid-level: INR 58.8L (€65k) Senior-level: INR 76.8 L (€85,000) |
| Average Aerospace Engineering Salary in Australia (Annual) | Entry-level: INR 49.6L (AUD 91k) Mid-level: INR 60L (AUD 1.1L) Senior-level: INR 76.5L (AUD 1.4L) |
| Average Aerospace Engineering Salary in Canada (Annual) | Entry-level: INR 47L (CAD 78k) Mid-level: INR 60.4L (CAD 1L) Senior-level: INR 90.6L (CAD 1.5L) |
| Average Aerospace Engineering Salary in France (Annual) | Entry-level: INR 31.6L (€35k) Mid-level: INR 49.8L (€55k) Senior-level: INR 67.9L (€75k) |
| Top Colleges in the World for Aerospace Engineering | Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) University of Cambridge Stanford University |
Why Study Aerospace Engineering?
According to PwC, the global aerospace and defence industry generated INR 69L crores ($829 billion) in revenue in 2023, with projections indicating continued growth. The space sector alone is expected to reach a market value of INR 84L crores ($1 trillion) by 2040, as reported by Morgan Stanley. These figures underscore the promising future of the aerospace industry.
Here are three compelling reasons to consider a career in aerospace engineering. Have a look.
1. Latest Technology and Innovation
Aerospace engineering is at the heart of technological advancement. From developing more fuel-efficient aircraft to designing spacecraft for interplanetary exploration, you would be working on projects that push the boundaries of what’s possible.
NASA’s 2024 budget of INR 2L crores ($25.4 billion) for space exploration and aeronautics research highlights the significant investments being made in this field. As an aerospace engineer, you’ll have the opportunity to work with the latest technologies and contribute to groundbreaking innovations.
2. Growing Job Market and Competitive Salaries
The job market for aerospace engineers is rapidly evolving. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 6% growth in aerospace engineering jobs from 2022 to 2032, which is faster than the average for all occupations. Moreover, as an aerospace engineer, you would enjoy competitive salaries.
3. Contribution to Space Exploration and Defense
In the new era of space exploration, aerospace engineers are at the forefront of missions that expand the understanding of the universe. NASA’s Artemis program, which aims to return humans to the Moon and then send them to Mars, has a budget of INR 65.3k crores ($7.8 billion) for 2024.
If you are convinced by now that you want to pursue a degree in Aerospace Engineering, keep reading to know more about the salaries of Aerospace Engineers in India and around the world.
Aerospace Engineering Salary in India
The aerospace industry in India has been growing rapidly, with the government’s “Make in India” initiative providing a significant boost.
According to a 2023 report by the India Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF), the Indian aerospace and defence market is projected to reach INR 5.9L crores (US$70 billion) by 2030, creating numerous opportunities for future aerospace engineers like you.
Have a look at the range of Aerospace Engineering Salary in India based on experience:
| Experience Level | Aerospace Engineering Salary (Annual) |
| 0-2 years | INR 3L – INR 6L |
| 3-7 years | INR 6L – INR 12L |
| 8+ years | INR 10L – INR 30L |
Here are the top 5 role-wise aerospace engineering salaries in India.
| Job Title | Average Annual Salary |
| Entry-level Aerospace Engineer | INR 3L – INR 6L |
| Design Engineer | INR 4L – INR 10L |
| Systems Engineer | INR 4L – INR 7L |
| Project Manager | INR 10L – INR 24L |
| Senior Aerospace Engineer | INR 9L – INR 18L |
Here are the specialisation-wise salaries for aerospace engineers in India.
| Specialisation | Average Annual Salary |
| Aerodynamics | INR 5L – INR 21L |
| Propulsion Systems | INR 3L – INR 8L |
| Flight Mechanics and Control | INR 3L – INR 8L |
| Space Systems | INR 3L – INR 31L |
| Aircraft Design | INR 4L – INR 10L |
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Top 3 Colleges for Aerospace Engineering in India
As of 2023, there were over 200 institutions offering aerospace engineering programs in India. Among these institutions, a few stand out for their excellence in aerospace education, research facilities, and industry connections.
Here are the top 3 colleges for aerospace engineering in India, which consistently rank high in national and international rankings.
| College Name | QS World University Rankings, 2025 | Annual Tuition Fees (INR) |
| Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay | 118 | INR 2.2L |
| Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras | 227 | INR 2.2L |
| Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur | 263 | INR 1L |
Top 6 Countries for the Highest Aerospace Engineering Salary
The global aerospace industry is a significant contributor to the world economy, with the Aerospace Industries Association reporting a total revenue of INR 1.2L crores ($418 billion) in 2023.
This thriving industry offers attractive compensation packages for skilled aerospace engineers, with salaries varying significantly across different countries.
DISCLAIMER: All INR conversions in this article are subject to change based on the currency conversion charges.
Here are the top 6 countries with the highest salary offerings for aerospace engineers.
1. Aerospace Engineering Salary in the U.S.
The United States is a global leader in aerospace engineering, home to major companies like Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and NASA. As of 2024, there are over 63k aerospace engineering professionals in the U.S.
Top Recruiters
- Boeing
- Lockheed Martin
- Northrop Grumman
- SpaceX
- NASA
Here are the average annual Aerospace Engineering salaries in the U.S. based on experience level. Have a look.
| Job | Average Annual Aerospace Engineering Salary |
| Entry-level Aerospace Engineer | INR 63.6L ($76k) |
| Mid-level Aerospace Engineer | INR 83.7L ($1L) |
| Senior Aerospace Engineer | INR 1 crore ($1.3L) |
Here are the top 5 role-wise salaries in India and the USA:
| Job Title | Aerospace Engineering Salary in the U.S. (Annual) |
| Entry-level Aerospace Engineer | INR 73.7L – INR 85.4L (USD 88k – USD 102k) |
| Systems Engineer | INR 83.7L – INR 92L (USD 1L – USD 1.1L) |
| Design Engineer | INR 75.3L – INR 83.7L (USD 90k – USD 1L) |
| Project Manager | INR 1 crore – INR 1.5 crore (USD 1.3L – 1.8L) |
| Senior Aerospace Engineer | INR 1.3 crores – INR 1.7 crores (USD 1.5L – USD 2L) |
Also Read: Average Salary in USA for 2024: The Best Guide
Here are the specialisation-wise salaries for aerospace engineering in the U.S.
| Specialisation | Aerospace Engineer Average Salary in the U.S. (Annual) |
| Aerodynamics | INR 62.5L – 1 crores (USD 75k – USD 1.3L) |
| Propulsion Systems | INR 66L – INR 1.2 crores (USD 80k – USD 1.4L) |
| Avionics | INR 70.8L – INR 1.3 crores (USD 85k – USD 1.5L) |
| Structures and Materials | INR 62.5L – INR 1 crore (USD 75k- USD 1.35L) |
| Flight Mechanics and Control | INR 66L – INR 1.2 crores (USD 80k – USD 1.45L) |
Also Read: Aeronautical Engineering Salary in the US in 2024: A Complete Guide
2. Aerospace Engineering Salary in the U.K.
The U.K. has a strong aerospace industry, with companies like BAE Systems and Rolls-Royce being major employers. The U.K. aerospace sector generated £38.2 billion in turnover in 2023, according to ADS Group.
Top Recruiters
- BAE Systems
- Rolls-Royce
- Airbus
- GKN Aerospace
- Meggitt
Here are the average annual Aerospace Engineering salaries in the U.K. based on experience level. Have a look.
| Job | Average Annual Aerospace Engineering Salary |
| Graduate Aerospace Engineer | INR 53.2L (£50k) |
| Senior Aerospace Engineer | INR 69.2L (£65k) |
| Experienced Aerospace Engineer | INR 85.2L (£80k) |
Here are the top 5 role-wise salaries in India and the UK.
| Job Title | Aerospace Engineering Salary in the U.K. (Annual) |
| Entry-level Aerospace Engineer | INR 29.8L – INR 42.6L (GBP 28k – GBP 40k) |
| Systems Engineer | INR 42.6L – INR 64L (GBP 40k – GBP 60k) |
| Design Engineer | INR 37.3L – INR 53.2L (GBP 35k – GBP 50k) |
| Project Manager | INR 42.6L – INR 96L (GBP 60k – GBP 90k) |
| Senior Aerospace Engineer | INR 69.3L – INR 1 Cr (GBP 65k – GBP 1L) |
Here are the specialisation-wise salaries for aerospace engineering in the U.K.
| Specialisation | Aerospace Engineering Salary in the U.K. (Annual) |
| Aerodynamics | INR 53.2L – INR 69.3L (GBP 35k – GBP 65k) |
| Propulsion Systems | INR 40.5L – INR 74.7L (GBP 38k – GBP 70k) |
| Avionics | INR 42.6L – INR 80L (GBP 40k – GBP 75k) |
| Structures and Materials | INR 53.2L – INR 72.5L (GBP 35k – GBP 68k) |
| Flight Mechanics and Control | INR 40.5L – INR 76.7L (GBP 38k – GBP 72k) |
Also Read: Engineer Salary in the UK 2024: Scope and Benefits
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3. Aerospace Engineering Salary in Germany
Germany is known for its strong engineering tradition and is home to companies like Airbus and MTU Aero Engines. As of 2023, The German aerospace industry employed over 1 lakh people.
Top Recruiters
- Airbus
- MTU Aero Engines
- Lufthansa Technik
- Liebherr-Aerospace
- OHB System
Here are the average annual Aerospace Engineering salaries in Germany based on experience level. Have a look.
| Job | Average Annual Aerospace Engineering Salary |
| Junior Aerospace Engineer | INR 40.7L (€45k) |
| Mid-level Aerospace Engineer | INR 58.8L (€65k) |
| Senior Aerospace Engineer | INR 76.8 L (€85,000) |
Here are the top 5 role-wise salaries in India and Germany.
| Job Title | Aerospace Engineering Salary in Germany (Annual) |
| Entry-level Aerospace Engineer | INR 40.8L – INR 54.4L (EUR 45k – EUR 60k) |
| Systems Engineer | INR 54.4L – INR 72.6L (EUR 60k – EUR 80k) |
| Design Engineer | INR 49.9L – INR 68L (EUR 55k – EUR 75k) |
| Project Manager | INR 72.6L – INR 90.7L (EUR 80k – EUR 1L) |
| Senior Aerospace Engineer | INR 77L – INR 1.1 crore (EUR 85k – EUR 1.2L) |
Here are the specialisation-wise salaries for aerospace engineering in Germany.
| Specialisation | Aerospace Engineer Average Salary in Germany (Annual) |
| Aerodynamics | INR 40.1L – INR 72.6L (EUR 45k – EUR 80k) |
| Propulsion Systems | INR 43.5L – INR 77L (EUR 48k – EUR 85k) |
| Avionics | INR 45.3L – INR 81.6L (EUR 50k – EUR 90k) |
| Structures and Materials | INR 40.8L – INR 74.4L (EUR 45k – EUR 82k) |
| Flight Mechanics and Control | INR 43.5L – INR 79.8L (EUR 48k – EUR 88k) |
Also Read: Average Salary in Germany for Indian Students
4. Aerospace Engineering Salary in Australia
Australia’s aerospace industry is growing, with a focus on the defence and space sectors. The Australian government has committed to investing AUD 330 billion in defence capabilities over the next decade, as of 2024.
Top Recruiters
- Boeing Australia
- Lockheed Martin Australia
- BAE Systems Australia
- Thales Australia
- Airbus Australia Pacific
Here are the average annual Aerospace Engineering salaries in Australia based on experience level. Have a look.
| Job | Average Annual Aerospace Engineering Salary |
| Graduate Aerospace Engineer | INR 49.5L (AUD 91k) |
| Mid-career Aerospace Engineer | INR 60L (AUD 1.1L) |
| Senior Aerospace Engineer | INR 76.5L (AUD 1.4L) |
Here are the top 5 role-wise salaries in India and Australia.
| Job Title | Aerospace Engineering Salary in Australia (Annual) |
| Entry-level Aerospace Engineer | INR 38.2L – INR 46.4L (AUD 70k – AUD 85k) |
| Systems Engineer | INR 46.4L – INR 54.5L (AUD 85k – AUD 1L) |
| Design Engineer | INR 43.6L – INR 51.8L (AUD 80k – AUD 95k) |
| Project Manager | INR 65.5L – INR 81.8L (AUD 120k – AUD 150k) |
| Senior Aerospace Engineer | INR 60L – INR 76.4L (AUD 110k – AUD 140k) |
Here are the specialisation-wise salaries for aerospace engineering in Australia.
| Specialisation | Aerospace Engineering Salary in Australia (Annual) |
| Aerodynamics | INR 24.5L – INR 43.6L (AUD 45k – AUD 80k) |
| Propulsion Systems | INR 26.2L – INR 46.4L (AUD 48k – AUD 85k) |
| Avionics | INR 27.3L – INR 49.1L (AUD 50k – AUD 90k) |
| Structures and Materials | INR 24.5L – INR 44.7L (AUD 45k – AUD 82k) |
| Flight Mechanics and Control | INR 26.2L – INR 48L (AUD 48k – AUD 88k) |
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Also Read: Highest-Paying Jobs in Australia to Skyrocket Your Career
5. Aerospace Engineering Salary in Canada
Canada has a thriving aerospace industry, particularly in Quebec and Ontario. According to the Aerospace Industries Association of Canada, the sector contributed over INR 2.4L crores (CAD 29 billion) to GDP in 2023.
Also Read: Study Aerospace Engineering in Canada- Eligibility, Fees & Process For Indian Students
Top Recruiters
- Bombardier
- CAE
- Pratt & Whitney Canada
- MDA
- Safran Landing Systems
Here are the average annual Aerospace Engineering salaries in Canada based on experience level. Have a look.
| Job | Average Annual Aerospace Engineering Salary |
| Entry-level Aerospace Engineer | INR 47L (CAD 78k) |
| Intermediate Aerospace Engineer | INR 60.4L (CAD 1L) |
| Senior Aerospace Engineer | INR 90.6L (CAD 1.5L) |
Here are the top 5 role-wise salaries in India and Canada.
| Job Title | Aerospace Engineering Salary in Canada (Annual) |
| Entry-level Aerospace Engineer | INR 36.2L – INR 45.2L (CAD 60k – CAD 75k) |
| Systems Engineer | INR 42.2L – INR 54.3L (CAD 70k – CAD 90k) |
| Design Engineer | INR 39.2L – INR 48.3L (CAD 65k – CAD 80k) |
| Project Manager | INR 60.3L – INR 78.4L (CAD 1L – CAD 1.3L) |
| Senior Aerospace Engineer | INR 54.3L – INR 72.4L (CAD 90k – CAD 1.2L) |
Here are the specialisation-wise salaries for aerospace engineering in Canada.
| Specialisation | Aerospace Engineering Salary in Canada (Annual) |
| Aerodynamics | INR 42.2L – INR 54.3L (CAD 70k – CAD 90k) |
| Propulsion Systems | INR 45.2L – INR 57.3L (CAD 75k – CAD 95k) |
| Avionics | INR 48.3L – INR 60.3L (CAD 80k – CAD 1L) |
| Structures and Materials | INR 42.2L – INR 54.3L (CAD 70k – CAD 90k) |
| Flight Mechanics and Control | INR 45.2L – INR 57.3L (CAD 75k – CAD 95k) |
Also Read: Study Masters in Aerospace Engineering in Canada – Eligibility, Fees & Process For Indian Students
6. Aerospace Engineering Salary in France
France is home to major aerospace companies like Airbus and Dassault Aviation. As of 2023, The French aerospace industry generated INR 1.5L crore (USD 18 billion) in turnover.
Top Recruiters
- Airbus
- Dassault Aviation
- Safran
- Thales
- ArianeGroup
Here are the average annual Aerospace Engineering salaries in France based on experience level. Have a look.
| Job | Average Annual Aerospace Engineering Salary |
| Junior Aerospace Engineer | INR 31.6L (€35k) |
| Experienced Aerospace Engineer | INR 49.8L (€55k) |
| Senior Aerospace Engineer | INR 67.9L (€75k) |
Here are the top 5 role-wise salaries in India and France.
| Job Title | Aerospace Engineering Salary in France (Annual) |
| Entry-level Aerospace Engineer | INR 34.5L – INR 45.4L (EUR 38k – EUR 50k) |
| Systems Engineer | INR 40.8L – INR 54.4L (EUR 45k – EUR 60k) |
| Design Engineer | INR 38.1L – INR 49.9L (EUR 42k – EUR 55k) |
| Project Manager | INR 54.4L – INR 72.6L (EUR 60k – EUR 80k) |
| Senior Aerospace Engineer | INR 63.5L – INR 81.7L (EUR 70k – EUR 90k) |
Here are the specialisation-wise salaries for aerospace engineering in France.
| Specialisation | Aerospace Engineering Salary in France (Annual) |
| Aerodynamics | INR 34.5L – INR 45.4L (EUR 38k – EUR 50k) |
| Propulsion Systems | INR 40.8L – INR 63.5L (EUR 45k – EUR 70k) |
| Avionics | INR 38.1L – INR 49.9L (EUR 42k – EUR 55k) |
| Structures and Materials | INR 34.5L – INR 54.4L (EUR 38k – EUR 60k) |
| Flight Mechanics and Control | INR 40.8L – INR 63.5L (EUR 45k – EUR 70k) |
To Conclude
The field of aerospace engineering offers exciting opportunities and competitive salaries worldwide. In India, the industry is growing rapidly, with experienced professionals earning up to INR 30L per year. Globally, countries like the United States, United Kingdom, and Germany offer some of the highest salaries, with top earners in the U.S. commanding over INR 1.3 crores ($1.6L) annually.
The global aerospace industry continues to grow, with projections indicating significant expansion in countries like India (expected to reach INR 5.9L crores or $70 billion by 2030) and continued dominance of traditional powerhouses like the U.S. and Europe. This growth promises exciting career prospects and competitive aerospace engineering salaries worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q: What is the average starting aerospace engineering salary in India?
A: Entry-level aerospace engineers in India can expect to earn between INR 25k – INR 40k per month. However, this may vary based on factors such as the specific company, location, and individual qualifications. Companies with a strong reputation or those located in metropolitan areas may offer higher starting salaries, reflecting the demand for skilled engineers in those regions.
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Q: Which country offers the highest aerospace engineering salary?
A: The United States generally offers the highest salaries for aerospace engineers, with experienced professionals earning INR 2.5 crores (USD 3L) annually. However, it’s important to consider the cost of living when comparing salaries across countries. Other countries, such as Canada and Australia, also offer competitive salaries, but they may not match the high earnings potential found in the U.S. aerospace sector.
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Q: What are the top companies hiring aerospace engineers globally?
A: Some of the top companies hiring aerospace engineers include the following:
Boeing
Airbus
Lockheed Martin
NASA
SpaceX
Northrop Grumman
BAE Systems -
Q: How does the aerospace engineering salary compare to other engineering fields?
A: Aerospace engineering salaries are generally competitive with other high-demand engineering fields like software engineering and electrical engineering. In many countries, aerospace engineers earn above-average salaries compared to other engineering disciplines. This is often due to the specialised skills required and the critical nature of aerospace projects in both commercial and defence sectors.
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Q: What additional benefits do aerospace engineers typically receive?
A: Besides your base salary, you will often receive benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and sometimes stock options or profit-sharing. Some companies also offer relocation assistance and continuing education support. These benefits can significantly improve the overall compensation package and contribute to job satisfaction.
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Q: How much does experience affect an aerospace engineer’s salary?
A: Experience significantly impacts your aerospace engineering salary. In India, for example, engineers with 8+ years of experience can earn 3-5 times more than entry-level engineers. Similar trends are seen globally, with experienced engineers often earning 50-100% more than those just starting their careers.
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Q: Are there any specialised skills that can increase an aerospace engineer’s salary?
A: Skills in areas like composite materials, avionics, systems engineering, and project management can boost your aerospace engineering salary. Additionally, expertise in emerging fields like autonomous systems or space technology can be particularly valuable.
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Q: How does the aerospace engineering job market look for the next 5-10 years?
A: The aerospace engineering job market is projected to grow steadily over the next decade, driven by advancements in commercial aviation, space exploration, and defence technologies. This growth is likely to create numerous job opportunities, especially for engineers with advanced skills and experience.
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Q: What is the salary difference between working in the private sector versus government agencies?
A: Generally, private sector jobs offer higher base salaries, especially at senior levels. However, government jobs often come with better job security, more comprehensive benefits, and the opportunity to work on cutting-edge national projects. The choice between sectors may depend on your priorities, such as salary versus job stability and work-life balance.
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Q: How do salaries in the commercial aviation sector compare to those in the space industry?
A: Salaries can be comparable between commercial aviation and the space industry, but the space industry often offers slightly higher salaries due to the specialised nature of the work. However, this can vary based on the specific company and role. Additionally, the increasing focus on space exploration and technology may lead to higher demand and compensation in this sector.
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Q: Are there opportunities for aerospace engineers to work remotely or internationally?
A: While many aerospace engineering roles require on-site presence due to the nature of the work, there are increasing opportunities for remote work, especially in areas like design and analysis. This allows you to gain diverse experiences and potentially higher salaries in different markets.
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Q: How does obtaining a master’s or PhD in aerospace engineering affect salary prospects?
A: Advanced degrees generally lead to higher salaries in aerospace engineering. Engineers with master’s degrees often earn 10-20% more than those with bachelor’s degrees, while PhD holders can command even higher salaries, especially in research-oriented roles. These advanced qualifications can also open doors to leadership positions and specialised research opportunities.
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