If the executor of a an estate lives 1,200 miles away, are they compensated for air-travel and hotel expense?

I can not tell if you are doing some estate planning or if the executor is already appointed.  If you are doing some estate planning you may want to name co-executors and one that is in state to avoid travel expenses.  Yes, the executor would be reimbursed from the estate.  Also double check that your state allows out of state executors and if yes, is there a caveat (like Florida which requires an in state person for service of papers).  Yes, the expenses are separate from the fee for sitting as executor.  And it is always best to spell things out clearly in the Will so that no one else balks when you are gone.  Please see a lawyer.  Good luck.