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Air Freight Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lynden Incorporated

First Officer

Anchorage, AK · On-site

As a FO, you'll play a key role in transporting mail, freight, and supporting commercial operations ... Lynden Air Cargo's Employee Handbook, LAC GOM and applicable CFR's. * Responsible to Pilot-in ...

lynden

First Officer

Anchorage, AK

As a FO, you'll play a key role in transporting mail, freight, and supporting commercial operations ... Lynden Air Cargo's Employee Handbook, LAC GOM and applicable CFR's. * Responsible to Pilot-in ...

lynden

First Officer

Anchorage, AK

As a FO, you'll play a key role in transporting mail, freight, and supporting commercial operations ... Lynden Air Cargo's Employee Handbook, LAC GOM and applicable CFR's. * Responsible to Pilot-in ...

Kalitta Air, LLC

First Officer

Ypsilanti, MI · On-site

Chief Pilot POSITION PURPOSE: Safely assist the Captain and crew, through the use of Crew Resource ... Performing preflight inspections of the aircraft and freight. * Assisting the crew with the ...

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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 14, 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.
BE-1900 Captain Cargo Pilot

BE-1900 Captain Cargo Pilot

Ameriflight

Klamath Falls, OR • On-site

$87K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
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 BE-1900
  • Outstation domiciled in Klamath Falls, OR (LMT) operating to PDX M-F evening and returning the following morning
  • PDX layover is a shared apartment
  • Blocks approximately 50 hours per month
  • Starting salary is $87,006 annually

Pilot Benefits:
  • Ameriflight is a proud partner of the UPS Flightpath Pathway Program
  • 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, Spirit, UPS and more.
  • Known Crew Member (KCM) privileges available
  • Paid training, including transportation, lodging, and per diem
  • Company paid Type-Rating
  • Reimbursement for Pilot Medical Certificate (not retroactive to pre-hire)
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision benefits
  • Company provided Life Insurance
  • Vacation
  • 401K

Requirements
  • Must meet FAR 135.243(c) requirements for PIC in IFR conditions
  • 1,800 TT, 1000 PIC, 500 hours XC (defined at point to point), 250 multi, 100 turbine (multi preferred) , 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
  • Commercial Pilot License multi-engine land with instrument rating, high performance and complex endorsements
  • First Class or Second Class Medical (First Class required for 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
  • Must have and maintain a valid Driver's License and meet all company insurance criteria
  • All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected status.
Salary Description
$87,006 annually

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