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Air Cargo Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ameriflight

BE-1900 Captain Cargo Pilot

Bellingham, WA · On-site

$87K/yr

Jumpseat privileges with CASS partners, including American, Alaska, Allegiant, Atlas Air, FedEx ... Reimbursement for Pilot Medical Certificate (not retroactive to pre-hire) * Medical, Dental, and ...

Reliable Robotics

Part 135 Line Pilot

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

... air cargo industry. We are building a high performance team and hiring at all levels within the ... As the Pilot in Command, you will be responsible to monitor the loading of cargo and ensure a ...

Reliable Robotics

Part 135 Line Pilot

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

... air cargo industry. We are building a high performance team and hiring at all levels within the ... As the Pilot in Command, you will be responsible to monitor the loading of cargo and ensure a ...

National Air Cargo, Inc

First Officer

Orlando, FL · On-site

... commercial air cargo carriages worldwide. National Airlines specializes in over-sized, time ... Chief Pilot FLSA Status: Exempt Summary: National First Officers, also known as second-in-command ...

Lynden Incorporated

First Officer

Anchorage, AK · On-site

Performs all assigned work in accordance with established policies and procedures as governed by Lynden Air Cargo's Employee Handbook, LAC GOM and applicable CFR's. * Responsible to Pilot-in-Command ...

National Air Cargo Group Inc

First Officer

Orlando, FL · On-site

... commercial air cargo carriages worldwide. National Airlines specializes in over-sized, time ... Chief Pilot FLSA Status: Exempt Summary: National First Officers, also known as second-in-command ...

Everts Air Cargo

Flight Dispatcher

Fairbanks, AK · On-site

$31/hr

Everts Air Cargo operates in Alaska, the Contiguous United States, Canada, and Central/South ... Exercise operational control authority in conjunction with the Pilot in Command (PIC) for the safe ...

lynden

First Officer

Anchorage, AK · On-site

Performs all assigned work in accordance with established policies and procedures as governed by Lynden Air Cargo's Employee Handbook, LAC GOM and applicable CFR's. * Responsible to Pilot-in-Command ...

lynden

First Officer

Anchorage, AK

Performs all assigned work in accordance with established policies and procedures as governed by Lynden Air Cargo's Employee Handbook, LAC GOM and applicable CFR's. * Responsible to Pilot-in-Command ...

Lynden Incorporated

Flight Engineer

Anchorage, AK · On-site

Lynden Air Cargo is a US part 121 all-cargo airline based in Anchorage, Alaska. We conduct ... Responsible to Pilot-in-Command (PIC) when on flight duty. * Responsible to the PIC for the ...

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All JobsAir Cargo Pilot Jobs

Air Cargo Pilot information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do air cargo pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for air 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Air Cargo Pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Air Cargo Pilot, you need a commercial pilot’s license (CPL) or airline transport pilot license (ATPL), extensive flight hours, and strong knowledge of aviation regulations and safety protocols. Proficiency with flight management systems, navigation tools, and understanding of cargo handling procedures is essential. Excellent problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help pilots manage unexpected situations and coordinate with ground crews. These competencies ensure safe, timely cargo deliveries and compliance with aviation standards in a demanding environment.

What are air cargo pilots?

Air cargo pilots are professional aviators who operate aircraft specifically designed or modified for transporting goods, mail, or freight rather than passengers. They are responsible for flying cargo planes on scheduled or chartered routes, ensuring timely and safe delivery of shipments. In addition to piloting the aircraft, air cargo pilots also oversee loading procedures, follow strict safety protocols, and communicate with air traffic control and ground crews. Their schedules may include overnight or long-haul flights, and they often work for logistics companies, freight carriers, or major airlines.

What is the difference between Air Cargo Pilot vs Commercial Pilot?

AspectAir Cargo PilotCommercial Pilot
CertificationsCommercial Pilot Certificate, specific cargo operation endorsementsCommercial Pilot Certificate, various endorsements depending on flying type
Work EnvironmentCargo aircraft, airports, often night and irregular hoursVarious settings including passenger, cargo, or instructional flying
Employer & IndustryAirlines, cargo carriers, freight companiesFlight schools, charter companies, aerial services

Air Cargo Pilots primarily operate cargo aircraft for freight companies, focusing on transporting goods. Commercial Pilots have broader roles, including passenger flights, aerial work, and flight instruction. While both require a Commercial Pilot Certificate, Air Cargo Pilots specialize in freight operations, often with specific cargo endorsements. Understanding these differences helps aspiring pilots choose the right career path based on their interests and certifications.

What are some common challenges that Air Cargo Pilots face during their shifts, and how are they typically addressed?

Air Cargo Pilots often encounter challenges such as irregular schedules, night flying, and rapidly changing weather conditions. Managing fatigue is crucial, as cargo flights frequently operate outside standard hours; airlines address this with strict adherence to rest regulations and support for healthy sleep routines. Additionally, Air Cargo Pilots must be adept at handling last-minute changes in cargo loads or routes, requiring strong communication and flexibility. Being proactive in pre-flight planning and maintaining close coordination with ground crews and dispatchers helps mitigate these challenges and ensures safe, efficient operations.
More about Air Cargo Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for Air Cargo Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Air Cargo Pilot job openings:
What states have the most Air Cargo Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Air Cargo Pilot jobs include:
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Air Cargo Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Air Cargo Pilot job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.