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Aircraft Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Chief Pilot

Sellersburg, IN ยท On-site

$150K - $175K/yr

... Aircraft Management, and Part 135 Charter, we control the full client experience. Our charter ... We are seeking a Chief Pilot who can lead from the front -- operationally, culturally, and ...

Duke Energy Utility Aviation is a team-oriented service organization operating with 2 pilots in Duke Energy aircraft to support the company's production and maintenance of reliable power. A pilot ...

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Aircraft Pilot information

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$48K

$87.1K

$133K

How much do aircraft pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for aircraft pilot in the United States is $87,144.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,000.00 and $102,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some of the common challenges aircraft pilots face during routine flights?

Aircraft pilots often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing weather conditions, unexpected technical issues, and the need for precise communication with air traffic control. They must remain calm under pressure and be prepared to make quick decisions to ensure passenger and crew safety. Additionally, pilots frequently manage irregular schedules and long hours, which can impact work-life balance, making adaptability and strong time-management skills essential.

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

To thrive as an Aircraft Pilot, you need strong aeronautical knowledge, excellent hand-eye coordination, and the appropriate pilot certifications such as a commercial pilot license (CPL) or airline transport pilot license (ATPL). Familiarity with flight management systems, navigation tools, and aviation weather software is typically required. Outstanding situational awareness, decision-making under pressure, and effective communication are vital soft skills. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of aircraft in a highly regulated and dynamic environment.

Are airplane pilots in demand?

Aircraft pilots are in demand due to growth in air travel and the need for qualified personnel. The profession requires specialized training, certifications, and often experience, which can influence job availability. Demand can vary by region and industry conditions but generally remains steady in commercial and cargo aviation sectors.

What are Aircraft Pilots?

Aircraft pilots are trained professionals responsible for operating and navigating airplanes, helicopters, or other types of aircraft. They ensure the safe and efficient transportation of passengers or cargo by following flight plans, communicating with air traffic control, and monitoring aircraft systems. Pilots can work for commercial airlines, private charter companies, or in sectors such as cargo transport, law enforcement, or emergency medical services. Their duties also include conducting pre-flight checks, responding to emergencies, and keeping up to date with aviation regulations. Becoming an aircraft pilot typically requires specialized training, certification, and ongoing education to maintain safety standards.

Can you be a pilot with schizophrenia?

Aircraft pilots are required to meet strict medical standards set by aviation authorities, which typically exclude individuals with schizophrenia due to safety concerns. A diagnosis of schizophrenia can disqualify a person from obtaining or maintaining a pilot's medical certification, as mental health stability is critical for safe flight operations.

What pilots make $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced airline pilots, especially those flying international routes for major carriers, can earn annual salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000, including base pay, bonuses, and overtime. Corporate and private jet pilots with extensive experience and specialized certifications may also reach similar earnings, particularly if they work for large, high-net-worth clients or operate large, complex aircraft.

What is the difference between Aircraft Pilot vs Flight Instructor?

AspectAircraft PilotFlight Instructor
Required CertificationsCommercial Pilot License (CPL), Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) for advanced rolesCertified Flight Instructor (CFI), often with CPL or ATP
Work EnvironmentAirlines, charter services, cargo carriers, private flightsFlight schools, training aircraft, instructional settings
Employer & Industry UsageAirlines, private operators, cargo companiesFlight training academies, flight schools

Aircraft Pilots operate aircraft for transportation, cargo, or private purposes, requiring advanced licenses. Flight Instructors focus on training new pilots, holding instructor-specific certifications. While both roles involve flying aircraft, pilots primarily transport passengers or cargo, whereas instructors teach and evaluate student pilots in training environments.

How much does an aircraft pilot make?

Aircraft pilots' salaries vary based on experience, type of aircraft, and employer. On average, commercial pilots earn around $130,000 annually, while airline pilots can make between $100,000 and $200,000 or more, with senior pilots earning higher salaries. Pilots typically need certifications such as a commercial pilot license and often work irregular hours, including nights and weekends.
More about Aircraft Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for Aircraft Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Aircraft Pilot job openings:
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What states have the most Aircraft Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Aircraft Pilot jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Aircraft Pilot jobs? For Aircraft Pilot jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Aircraft Pilot job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,144 per year, or $41.9 per hour.
Pilot - Challenger 604 (Pro-line Fusion) Second in Command (SIC)

Pilot - Challenger 604 (Pro-line Fusion) Second in Command (SIC)

ACI Jet

San Luis Obispo, CA โ€ข On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Description:

Passionate about aviation? So are we! "Aviators Doing Aviation" is more than a trademark; it's at the core of what we do. We inspire our team members and our communities to fall in love with aviation and to become prominent members of the aviation community.


We strive for excellence in everything we do, including our work culture. We commit to a positive work environment for all of our employees, and encourage their personal and professional development. If youโ€™re looking to join a team that is characterized by qualities like professionalism, integrity, perseverance, service, and enthusiasm then ACI Jet is the place for you. We value our team, and know how to have fun in the process.


Think you have what it takes to keep up? We like your attitude, and thatโ€™s one of the most important qualities that weโ€™re looking for in prospective employees. ACI Jet unlocks a world of opportunities to further your aviation career, so if you have what it takes to work for us, we'll work for you, too.


A Challenger 604 SIC is responsible for performing duties as a Part 91/135 aircraft pilot in a safe and efficient manner. This position will include operating the applicable aircraft on behalf of ACI Jet while maintaining a positive and productive relationship with ACI Jetโ€™s employees, vendors, and clients by personally performing these duties.


The Challenger 604 SIC will report directly to the account Lead Captain (Aircraft and Crew Manager - ACM).

Requirements:


WHAT YOU'LL DO:

  • Operates ACI Jet aircraft in a safe and efficient manner while in compliance with all company rules and regulations, manufacturersโ€™ limitations and manuals, governmental rules and regulations, and any other requirements of agencies having jurisdiction over the flight
  • Coordinate with ACI Jet Flight Dispatch personnel to ensure that the goals and objectives relating to assigned flight operations are achieved and carried out in accordance with applicable policies and procedures
  • Provide unparalleled courtesy, professionalism and customer service to ACI Jet Charter clients and owners
  • Ensures that Electronic Flight Bag(s) (EFB) are kept current with the latest navigation and application dates
  • Remain knowledgeable relative to the applicable portions of the ACI Jet Air Carrier Operations Manual (ACOM)
  • Ensure that a proper preflight inspection has been accomplished prior to takeoff including but not limited to the aircraft, its publications, documentation, equipment, passenger service items, fuel, weather conditions at destination, enroute, alternate airports and departure points, customs, permits, and airport/runway suitability

HERE'S THE TYPE OF PERSON WE ARE LOOKING FOR:

  • 2,500 hours total time
  • 500 hours PIC
  • 500 hours multi-engine
  • 150 hours instrument
  • 100 hours turbine
  • CL-604 Type Rating highly desired, but not required
  • Must have a current and valid Pilotโ€™s Certificate with an English proficient endorsement.
  • For this account, all applicants must meet the requirements of ICAO Annex I, Section 2.1.10
  • Must have a valid ATP rating
  • Must be able to maintain a First Class Medical
  • Must be able to maintain a valid United States Passport
  • Must have a Bachelorโ€™s degree from an accredited university or have 3-5 years of professional aviation experience.
  • Must be highly motivated and organized

WHAT YOUR COMPENSATION, BENEFITS, AND PERKS WILL BE:

  • Full Benefits (Medical, dental, vision, 401k matching, paid time off and continuing education).

Equal Employment Opportunity

ACI Jet is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on any protected characteristic, including race, religion, color, national origin, disability, sex, gender, age, sexual orientation, or veteran status. Reasonable accommodations are provided for qualified applicants with disabilities unless doing so would cause undue hardship; contact HR for details.


Pay: $120,000.00 - $160,000.00/yr | DOE