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747 Cargo Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

National Air Cargo, Inc

First Officer

Orlando, FL · On-site

Chief Pilot FLSA Status: Exempt Summary: National First Officers, also known as second-in-command ... National Air Cargo is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants ...

National Air Cargo, Inc

Captain 777

Orlando, FL · On-site

Chief Pilot FLSA Status: Exempt Summary: National Airlines Captains are responsible overall for the ... The PIC is responsible for the safety of all crew members, passengers, and/or cargo on board the ...

National Air Cargo Group Inc

Captain 777

Orlando, FL

Chief Pilot FLSA Status: Exempt Summary: National Airlines Captains are responsible overall for the ... The PIC is responsible for the safety of all crew members, passengers, and/or cargo on board the ...

National Airlines

First Officer

Orlando, FL · On-site

Chief Pilot FLSA Status: Exempt Summary: National First Officers, also known as second-in-command ... National Air Cargo is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants ...

National Air Cargo, Inc

Mission Planner

Orlando, FL · On-site

... 747-400 and A-330-200 aircraft to accomplish its missions. Job Title: Mission Planner Location ... Identifies any additional insurance requirements for the carriage of special cargo such as ...

National Airlines

Captain 777

Orlando, FL · On-site

Chief Pilot FLSA Status: Exempt Summary: National Airlines Captains are responsible overall for the ... The PIC is responsible for the safety of all crew members, passengers, and/or cargo on board the ...

National Airlines

Mission Planner

Orlando, FL · On-site

... 747-400 and A-330-200 aircraft to accomplish its missions. Job Title: Mission Planner Location ... Identifies any additional insurance requirements for the carriage of special cargo such as ...

All Jobs747 Cargo Pilot Jobs

747 Cargo Pilot information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do 747 cargo pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for 747 cargo pilot in the United States is $130,916.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,000.00 and $155,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the 2 pilot rule?

The 2 pilot rule in cargo flying requires that at least two qualified pilots are present in the cockpit during flight to ensure safety and compliance with regulations. This rule is standard for commercial operations, especially on long-haul or complex flights, and helps maintain operational safety and crew workload management.

How much does a 747 cargo pilot make?

A 747 cargo pilot typically earns between $100,000 and $200,000 annually, depending on experience, airline, and flight hours. Senior pilots with extensive experience and additional certifications can earn higher salaries, often supplemented by per-diem and overtime pay.

What does a 747 cargo pilot do?

A 747 cargo pilot is responsible for flying Boeing 747 aircraft that transport freight instead of passengers. Their duties include planning flight routes, conducting pre-flight checks, monitoring weather conditions, ensuring the safe loading and unloading of cargo, and operating the aircraft during all stages of flight. They must also adhere to aviation regulations, communicate with air traffic control, and handle any in-flight issues that may arise. These pilots often work irregular hours and may fly long-haul international routes. Safety, efficiency, and attention to detail are crucial in this role.

What is the difference between 747 Cargo Pilot vs 747 Passenger Pilot?

Aspect747 Cargo Pilot747 Passenger Pilot
CertificationsCommercial Pilot License (CPL), type ratings for 747Commercial Pilot License (CPL), type ratings for 747
Work EnvironmentFreight cargo aircraft, often in logistics hubsPassenger aircraft, airports, and passenger terminals
Employer & IndustryCargo airlines, freight carriersPassenger airlines, commercial aviation

Both 747 Cargo Pilots and 747 Passenger Pilots require similar certifications and type ratings. The main difference lies in the work environment: cargo pilots operate freight aircraft focused on logistics, while passenger pilots fly commercial flights carrying passengers. Their roles are within the same industry but serve different operational needs.

How much do cargo airplane pilots make?

Cargo airplane pilots typically earn between $70,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, airline, and flight hours. Experienced pilots with additional certifications and long-haul routes tend to earn higher salaries, often supplemented by per diem and overtime pay.

Which pilots make $500,000 a year?

747 cargo pilots, especially those with seniority, extensive experience, and flying large, long-haul routes, can earn annual salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000. High earnings often include base pay, overtime, and bonuses, and require advanced certifications, such as an Airline Transport Pilot license, along with significant flight hours and company seniority.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a 747 Cargo Pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as a 747 Cargo Pilot, you need an Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL), extensive flight hours, and in-depth knowledge of aviation regulations and large aircraft operations. Proficiency with advanced avionics systems, flight management computers, and navigation tools is crucial, along with type-rating certification for the Boeing 747. Strong situational awareness, decision-making under pressure, and effective communication with crew and ground control distinguish top pilots. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient, and timely transport of cargo across international routes while managing complex operational challenges.

What are some unique challenges 747 Cargo Pilots face compared to passenger airline pilots?

747 Cargo Pilots often operate on irregular schedules, including night flights and long-haul routes that can cross multiple time zones, which can be physically demanding. Unlike passenger flights, cargo operations may involve landing at less-familiar airports with varying ground support, requiring adaptability and strong situational awareness. Additionally, cargo pilots work closely with ground crews and loadmasters to ensure proper weight and balance, making teamwork and clear communication essential. These factors contribute to a dynamic and sometimes unpredictable work environment, but also offer opportunities for rapid skill development and advancement.
More about 747 Cargo Pilot jobs
What job categories do people searching 747 Cargo Pilot jobs look for? The top searched job categories for 747 Cargo Pilot jobs are:
747 Cargo Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various 747 Cargo Pilot job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.
First Officer

First Officer

National Air Cargo, Inc

Orlando, FL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

National Airlines, based in Orlando, FL, operates passenger charter service as well as customized military and commercial air cargo carriages worldwide. National Airlines specializes in over-sized, time sensitive, and special handling requirements, utilizing 747-400 and A-330 aircraft to accomplish its missions.
Job Title: First Officer
Location: Home Based
Department: Flight Operations
Reports To: Chief Pilot
FLSA Status: Exempt
Summary: National First Officers, also known as second-in-command (SIC), report to the Chief Pilot and are functionally responsible to the Pilot in Command (PIC) of the flight to which they are assigned. The First Officer plays a vital component in the safe operation of National aircraft by assisting the captain in accordance with all Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR's) and company policies and procedures. First Officers are expected to exercise responsibilities in a manner that promotes teamwork, professionalism, and mentorship.
Duties & Responsibilities:
  • Must be thoroughly familiar with and adhere to instructions and procedures contained in the applicable company operational manuals.
  • Responsible for compliance with all regulations promulgated by both the FAA, foreign aviation authority if applicable, and the Company for the conduct of the flight.
  • Responsible for compliance with all clearances and directives issued by valid controlling agencies, i.e., Air Traffic Control (ATC), and Ground Control, etc.
  • Is considered to be in training for upgrading to Captain. Must take advantage of all Captain instructions and information available to prepare accordingly through observing closely the standard in-flight operating procedures and other techniques used by Captains during flight.
  • Ensures necessary forms and flight deck supplies are adequately stocked and available to the crew prior to each flight.
  • Performs the duties of a Relief Officer on a crew of 3 or more Pilots
  • Additional responsibilities may be found in National Airlines' General Operations Manual.

Qualifications:
  • Hold a current and unrestricted ATP certificate with an airplane category multi-engine class rating and English proficiency endorsement.
  • Hold a current FAA First Class medical Certificate.
  • Hold and FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit.
  • Hold a valid U.S. passport with no restrictions on international travel.
  • Legally authorized to work in the United States.
  • Have a minimum of 2,2000 required
  • Have a minimum of 500 hours of turbine time.
  • Minimum age of 23 (All National pilots are subject to FAA 121 mandatory retirement regulations). Note: ATP issued with a CIRC APCH-VMC Only limitation is acceptable.
  • Current and qualified operating in Part 121, 135 or 91 environments. (Preferred)

Supervisory Responsibility: No
Physical Requirements:
  • Prolonged periods of sitting.
  • Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at a time.

The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position. The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.
National Air Cargo is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, Protected Veteran status, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other legally protected status. We prohibit discrimination in all aspects of employment, including recruitment, hiring, compensation, benefits, training, termination, promotions or other conditions of employment or career development. We take affirmative steps to hire and advance females, racial minorities, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities. We offer Reasonable Accommodations where necessary to candidates for employment and to our qualified employees with disabilities.
National Airlines also expects all our employees to support and promote our Safety Management System (SMS) Safety Policy and Safety Objectives. Employees at all levels of the organization are encouraged to report safety concerns or hazards without fear of reprisal.

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