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Air Freight Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NAC/NAMS

NAC MGR Aircraft Records

Anchorage, AK · On-site

Aloha Air Cargo : (AAC) is the largest air freight carrier in the state of Hawaii and is a vital transportation provider to business, government, and non-profit entities. AAC moves approximately 350 ...

Norfolk Southern Corp.

Captain Pilot

Atlanta, GA · On-site

To operate the Company aircraft as called upon, providing safe, comfortable, and efficient air ... Today, it operates a customer-centric and operations-driven freight transportation network.

Norfolk Southern Corp.

Captain Pilot

Atlanta, GA · On-site

To operate the Company aircraft as called upon, providing safe, comfortable, and efficient air ... Today, it operates a customer-centric and operations-driven freight transportation network.

Ameriflight

BE-1900 Captain Cargo Pilot

Bellingham, WA · On-site

$87K/yr

... freight forwarders to adapt to the ever-changing demands and speed of a modern air cargo supply ... Base salary is $87,006 annually Pilot Benefits: * Ameriflight is a proud partner of the UPS ...

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All JobsAir Freight Pilot Jobs

Air Freight Pilot information

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$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do air freight pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for air freight 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 a female pilot called?

A female pilot is simply called a pilot, as the term applies equally regardless of gender. In some contexts, the term 'aviatrix' has been used historically, but it is rarely used today; most female pilots use the same job title as their male counterparts. Gender does not change the professional designation in aviation.

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

AspectAir Freight PilotCargo Pilot
CertificationsCommercial Pilot License (CPL), Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) if requiredCommercial Pilot License (CPL), often same as Air Freight Pilot
Work EnvironmentOperate cargo aircraft, often for freight companies or airlinesOperate cargo aircraft, similar environment
Employer & IndustryAirlines, freight carriers, logistics companiesFreight carriers, logistics companies, cargo airlines

Both Air Freight Pilots and Cargo Pilots operate cargo aircraft and require similar certifications. The main difference lies in terminology; 'Air Freight Pilot' emphasizes freight transportation, while 'Cargo Pilot' is a more general term. Both roles work in similar environments and industries, focusing on transporting goods efficiently and safely.

How much do air freight pilots make?

Air freight 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 overtime and per diem allowances.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Air Freight Pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Air Freight Pilot, you need an Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL), extensive flight experience, and a strong understanding of aviation regulations and cargo operations. Proficiency with avionics systems, flight management software, and navigation tools is essential, and many employers require certifications specific to the aircraft type. Excellent situational awareness, decision-making under pressure, and effective communication with ground and flight crews set top pilots apart. These skills ensure the safe, timely, and efficient transport of cargo in compliance with strict safety standards.

What are Air Freight Pilots?

Air Freight Pilots are professional aviators who operate aircraft specifically designed or designated for transporting cargo, rather than passengers. Their primary responsibilities include safely flying planes that carry goods between airports, adhering to schedules, and ensuring that all cargo is loaded, secured, and delivered efficiently. They must thoroughly plan each flight, monitor weather conditions, communicate with air traffic control, and comply with aviation regulations. Air Freight Pilots often work irregular hours, including nights and weekends, due to the demands of the logistics industry. This role requires specialized training, commercial pilot licensing, and strong attention to detail to ensure the safety and timely arrival of shipments.

Which pilots make $500,000 a year?

Air freight pilots, especially those flying large cargo aircraft for major logistics companies, can earn annual salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000, primarily through a combination of base pay, overtime, and bonuses. High earnings are typically associated with extensive experience, seniority, and flying long-haul or specialized routes, often requiring advanced certifications and a high level of skill. However, such salaries are relatively rare and usually represent top-tier compensation in the aviation industry.

Do you need 1500 hours to be a cargo pilot?

For an air freight pilot, accumulating at least 1,500 flight hours is often a requirement for advanced positions or airline employment, as it demonstrates sufficient experience in flying and handling cargo aircraft. Entry-level cargo pilots may start with fewer hours, but higher-hour thresholds are common for commercial and airline roles, along with necessary certifications such as an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) license. Experience, training, and certifications are key factors in qualifying for cargo pilot positions.

What are some typical challenges Air Freight Pilots face when managing tight delivery schedules?

Air Freight Pilots often encounter the challenge of maintaining strict delivery timelines while navigating unpredictable factors such as adverse weather conditions, air traffic delays, and last-minute cargo changes. Successfully managing these variables requires strong decision-making skills, effective communication with ground crews and dispatchers, and the ability to adapt flight plans as necessary. Pilots must also adhere to safety regulations and manage fatigue, especially during overnight or long-haul flights, which are common in air freight operations.
More about Air Freight Pilot jobs
What states have the most Air Freight Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Air Freight Pilot jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Air Freight Pilot jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Air Freight Pilot jobs are:
Air Freight Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Air Freight Pilot job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 54% Full Time, 38% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

Seasonal Seaplane Pilot

Kawanti Adventures and Taquan Air

Ketchikan, AK • On-site

Temporary

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Taquan Air in Ketchikan is looking to fill seasonal full-time pilot positions starting May 1st, 2024 through September 30th, 2024.
We operate DeHavilland Beavers and Turbine Otters on straight floats exclusively. All pilot positions involve flying freight and mail to multiple destinations near Ketchikan, as well as on and around Prince of Wales Island. The summer season will include flight seeing tours to the Misty Fjords National Monument and surrounding areas. Applicants must be physically fit and able to load and unload cargo, have good customer service skills, be able to work well with others as part of a team, with good judgement and a safety-first frame of mind.
REQUIREMENTS FOR PILOTS:
  • Commercial Pilot Certificate with Airplane Single-engine Sea Rating
  • 1000 hours total time
  • 100 hours cross-country time, including 25 hours night cross-country time
  • Instrument Rating (per FAR 135.243)
  • Taquan Air will consider a variety of experience levels, however you do need 200 hours float time minimum.
  • A history of instructing seaplane applicants is a definite plus.

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