Want something to compare? Here it is: a Nuclear Power Plant Operator job. Requires license. You are responsible for an asset valued more than all aircraft of major airline fleet together. Your mistake can kill immediately more people than crash of all aircraft of major airline. And then millions will suffer for many years after.
And by the way, millions cannot live without energy produced by your plant.
So this job is probably is more important than job done by 500 airline Captains. Anyone want to bet what is the typical salary for this position?