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Air Cargo Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Jumpseat privileges with CASS partners, including American, Alaska, Allegiant, Atlas Air, FedEx ... Reimbursement for Pilot Medical Certificate (post-hire only) * Medical, Dental, and Vision benefits

New

$131K - $171K/yr

Cargo Helicopter (CH-47); Utility Helicopter (UH-60 series), (LUH-72 series) and others when ... Conducts initial standardization flight evaluations for new air crew members and annual evaluations ...

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 ...

... 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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 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 ...

Lynden Air Cargo is a US part 121 all-cargo airline based in Anchorage, Alaska. We conduct ... Share critical operational information-such as weather, facilities, and services-with the Pilot in ...

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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 29, 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:
Infographic showing various Air Cargo Pilot job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 6% 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.
BE-1900 Captain - Cargo Pilot

BE-1900 Captain - Cargo Pilot

Ameriflight LLC

Pampa, TX • On-site

$87K/yr

Full-time, Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday


Job description

Description:


Ameriflight, LLC is the nation’s largest Part 135 cargo airline and the leading provider of scalable, outsourced aviation services for the regional express airfreight market. Our diverse portfolio enables major cargo integrators, manufacturers, aircraft operators, and freight forwarders to adapt quickly to the demands of today’s fast-moving supply chain.


Operating a fleet of more than 120 aircraft—including the Saab 340B, Embraer 120, Fairchild SA227, Beechcraft 1900, and Beechcraft 99—Ameriflight delivers reliable service from bases across the U.S.


About the position:

  • Captain in Beechcraft BE1900
  • Outstation domiciled in PPA, operating to AMA and LBB M-F evening and returning the following morning
  • Occasionally repositions to DFW for maintenance
  • Base salary is $87,006 annually

Pilot Benefits:

  • Ameriflight is a proud partner of the UPS Flightpath Pathway Program
  • Career advancement opportunities, including training and leadership positions
  • Paid training, including transportation, lodging, and per diem
  • Ability to bid specific base, equipment and domicile
  • Jumpseat privileges with CASS partners, including American, Alaska, Allegiant, Atlas Air, FedEx, Frontier, Horizon, JSX, Omni Air, Southwest, UPS Airlines and more
  • Known Crew Member (KCM) privileges available
  • Reimbursement for Pilot Medical Certificate (post-hire only)
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision benefits
  • Company provided Life Insurance
  • Vacation
  • 401K plan
Requirements:
  • Must meet FAR 135.243(c) requirements for PIC in IFR conditions
  • Commercial Pilot License multi-engine land with instrument rating, high performance and complex endorsements
  • 1,800 TT, 1000 PIC, 500 hours XC, 250 multi, 100 turbine PIC, 100 hours instrument (50 must be in aircraft), 100 hours night
  • Previous FAR121/135 experience required
  • Instrument Proficiency Check or 121/135 recurrent within past 6 months
  • First or Second Class medical. First Class required for all Charter / ESCS positions and international operations
  • FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit
  • Current Passport
  • English Proficient
  • Must be eligible to work in the U.S. and travel unrestricted in and out of the U.S.
  • Must meet airport badging requirements, including a TSA Security background check
  • Successful completion of pre-employment required DOT drug screening and other required background checks
  • May drive company provided vehicles - must have a valid Driver’s License and meet all company insurance criteria

We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are based on merit, qualifications, and business needs without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.