How Much Do Aircraft Detailers Make? Real Income Numbers for 2026

How Much Do Aircraft Detailers Make?

Aircraft detailing pays significantly more than automotive detailing for the same physical effort. Here are the real numbers.

Hourly Rates

• Entry level working for a company: $18 to $28 per hour
• Independent detailer: $75 to $150 per hour
• Specialist services (brightwork, ceramic coatings): $100 to $200 per hour

Annual Income by Stage

• Solo operator just starting out: $40,000 to $70,000 in year one
• Established solo operator with recurring clients: $80,000 to $130,000
• Owner with one employee: $100,000 to $180,000
• Multi-crew operation with FBO contracts: $200,000+

Why Aircraft Detailing Pays More

Aircraft owners are high-net-worth individuals who prioritize quality over price. A Cessna owner might pay $300 for a full wash and wax — the same job on a car pays $80. A full detail on a large cabin jet pays $3,000 to $8,000 — the same job on an SUV pays $300 to $500. The knowledge barrier keeps competition thin and most markets have more demand than qualified detailers.

What Affects Your Income

• Aircraft size and type — larger aircraft mean more hours and higher revenue
• Service mix — ceramic coatings and brightwork have the highest margins
• Recurring clients — monthly maintenance agreements create predictable income
• Training and certification — certified detailers command higher rates and win more FBO referrals

How Quickly Can You Hit $100K?

Most Shiny Jets graduates who commit fully reach $80,000 to $100,000 in annual revenue within 12 to 18 months. The keys are pricing correctly from day one using the Shiny Jets CRM, landing 5 to 10 recurring monthly maintenance clients, and building relationships with one or two FBOs who refer walk-in work.

Ready to Start Earning?

Shiny Jets training programs are designed to get you operational fast — with real pricing tools, business startup curriculum, and a certified detailer directory listing that puts you in front of aircraft owners looking for qualified professionals. Book a free call to find out which program is right for you.