ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Freelance Aircraft Ferry Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ag

Pilot

Grand Prairie, TX

... flights, ferry missions, and customer demonstrations. Your working environment: A suburb just ... Aircraft Flight: 20% * Perform flight training as an instructor pilot with transition and recurrent ...

New

Air Methods Pilots

Helicopter Pilot

Hagerstown, MD

$89K - $111K/yr

EMS Air Medical Aircraft: H135T3 $20,000 Stipend and $15,000 Sign-on Bonus Available AIR METHODS ... Spend your days off exploring the Appalachian Trail, Antietam National Battlefield, Harpers Ferry ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All Jobsfreelance JobsFreelance Aircraft Ferry Pilot Jobs

Freelance Aircraft Ferry Pilot information

See salary details

$48K

$87.1K

$133K

How much do freelance aircraft ferry pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance aircraft ferry 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 is a freelance aircraft ferry pilot?

A Freelance Aircraft Ferry Pilot is a professional pilot who is hired on a contract basis to transport aircraft from one location to another, often across countries or continents. Their main responsibility is to safely deliver planes, which may be newly purchased, sold, leased, or in need of maintenance, to their destination. Unlike airline pilots, ferry pilots typically fly unfamiliar aircraft and must be skilled in adapting to different types and models. They also handle route planning, international regulations, and logistics involved in long-distance flights. This role requires strong flying skills, flexibility, and the ability to work independently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance aircraft ferry pilot?

To thrive as a Freelance Aircraft Ferry Pilot, you need an FAA commercial pilot license (or equivalent), significant cross-country and international flight experience, and strong knowledge of flight planning and regulations. Familiarity with various aircraft types, GPS navigation systems, and advanced weather briefing tools is typically required. Outstanding problem-solving, adaptability, and communication skills help manage unexpected situations and coordinate with clients or authorities. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient delivery of diverse aircraft across long distances and often unfamiliar routes.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance aircraft ferry pilots during cross-border deliveries?

Freelance aircraft ferry pilots often encounter challenges such as navigating complex international regulations, securing overflight and landing permits, and dealing with variable weather conditions across different regions. Additionally, pilots must adapt quickly to unfamiliar aircraft and ensure thorough pre-flight inspections, as ferry flights often involve long distances over remote or inhospitable terrain. Effective communication with operators, owners, and ground support teams is essential to address unforeseen issues and ensure safe, timely deliveries.

What is the difference between Freelance Aircraft Ferry Pilot vs Commercial Pilot?

AspectFreelance Aircraft Ferry PilotCommercial Pilot
CertificationsPrivate Pilot License (PPL) or Commercial Pilot License (CPL), depending on aircraftCommercial Pilot License (CPL) required
Work EnvironmentAircraft transfer, often on-demand, across various locationsScheduled flights, passenger or cargo transport
Employer/IndustryIndependent, contracted for specific ferry jobsAirlines, charter companies, cargo carriers

Freelance Aircraft Ferry Pilots primarily transfer aircraft between locations on a contract basis, often working independently. Commercial Pilots operate scheduled flights for airlines or companies. While both roles require a CPL, ferry pilots focus on aircraft relocation, whereas commercial pilots focus on passenger or cargo services.

How much do freelance aircraft ferry pilots make?

Freelance aircraft ferry pilots typically earn between $25 and $50 per hour, depending on factors such as aircraft size, distance, and experience. Some pilots may also receive per-flight or per-mile compensation, with annual earnings varying widely based on workload and contracts.

How to get a job as a freelance aircraft ferry pilot?

To become a freelance aircraft ferry pilot, you need a commercial pilot license with an aircraft type rating, significant flying experience, and a strong understanding of aircraft systems and regulations. Building a network with aircraft owners, brokers, and operators is essential, along with maintaining current certifications and logbook hours. Many ferry pilots also use specialized tools and adhere to safety standards to ensure successful assignments.
More about Freelance Aircraft Ferry Pilot jobs

What cities are hiring for Freelance Aircraft Ferry Pilot jobs?

Cities with the most Freelance Aircraft Ferry Pilot job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Aircraft Ferry Pilot jobs?

The most popular types of Aircraft Ferry Pilot jobs are:

What states have the most Freelance Aircraft Ferry Pilot jobs?

States with the most job openings for Freelance Aircraft Ferry Pilot jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Freelance Aircraft Ferry Pilot jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Aircraft Ferry Pilot jobs are:

Freelance Aircraft Ferry Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Aircraft Ferry Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 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.

F-16 Ferry Pilot - TEMPORARY

Top Aces Corporation

Arizona City, AZ • On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Other

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

F-16 Ferry Pilot - TEMPORARY

Full Time Mesa, AZ, US

7 days ago Requisition ID: 1150

F-16 Ferry Pilot is responsible for mission planning, briefing, execution, and debriefing missions in support of the safe and efficient movement of F-16 Aircraft between designated locations via preplanned routing and multiple sorties. As an experienced F-16 Pilot, this role will conduct aircraft delivery missions consisting of multiple sorties with individual flight durations of up to eight (8) hours. International operations may include departures, transits, arrivals, potential diversions, and landings at international airports throughout Europe, Africa, and South America. The information below is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required for this position.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Perform mission planning in preparation for F-16 AOS movement as directed by authorized planning agency.
  • Accomplish necessary ground training prior to flights.
  • Deploy as required to support mission and contract requirements.
  • Act as or support personnel responsible for flight safety, training, scheduling, standardization and evaluation, or other Program Management duties as needed.
  • Adhere to all directions provided by the Chief Pilot, Director of OPS, AOS Director and Ferry Flight F-16 Flight Lead as well as the Contract Requesting Official (CRO).
  • Adhere to OSHA and OH&S requirements, demonstrate proper use of PPE, safety systems, and tools.
  • Report hazards (such as unsafe situations and activities) and other safety concerns as soon as humanly possible to supervisor and through Company’s Safety Management System (SMS).
  • Perform related duties as assigned.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

  • Previously qualified US DoD-trained F-16 pilot or equivalent allied training program.
  • Previously qualified in Air-to-Air Refueling in the F-16.
  • 500 hours Pilot In Command (PIC) of any fixed wing DoD (or Allied) fighter aircraft.
  • TAC F-16 pilots will have valid U.S. Federal Aviation Administration, European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) or military qualifications and currencies for F-16.
  • Must be able to work under pressure and meet deadlines while fostering a positive attitude.
  • Must have strong problem‑solving abilities.
  • Proficient in the English language with excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Must be proficient in the Microsoft Office Suite.
  • Must be able to work nights, weekends, and holidays as needed.
  • Must be able to travel within the US and internationally.
  • Must demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of a F-16 Ferry Pilot in daily work performance.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a US security clearance at the secret level, or NATO equivalent.
  • Must not be barred from any military installation.

CERTIFICATIONS / LICENSES

  • FAA instrument Currency, EASA Instrument Currency, or DoD military F-16 currency.
  • Second Class Medical Certificate or DoD equivalent medical clearance.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • 1,000 hours PIC in F-16
  • 500 hours as an F-16 Instructor Pilot
  • Previous performance of a trans‑oceanic fighter aircraft AOS movement as Pilot in Command
  • Squadron Command experience
  • FAA CFI (I) Certificate

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Must be able to work in various weather environments and conditions.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
  • Must be able to stand, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, sit, talk, walk, hear, see, and reach with hands and arms.
  • This position requires close vision, distant vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.
  • This role is performed around loud noises and hazardous chemicals with exposure to fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, and risks of electrical shock. The F-16 Ferry Pilot must be able to work in environments with exposure to noise, chemicals, dust, and varying weather conditions.

TEMPORARY ASSIGNMENT NOTICE

This is a temporary position established to support the completion of specific contract-related deliverables. The assignment is anticipated to last approximately 9–14 days and is expected to conclude upon completion of the required deliverables. The anticipated duration is an estimate and may vary based on operational and contractual requirements.

#J-18808-Ljbffr

Apply