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Freelance Part 135 Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Challenger 300 - Lead Pilot

Hawthorne, CA ยท On-site

$25K - $350K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

We were founded in 2005 by our President, Levi Stockton, as an FAA approved, Part 135, On-Demand ... The Lead Pilot will operate the aircraft as Pilot in Command (PIC) and report to Advanced Air ...

Challenger 300 - Lead Pilot

Hawthorne, CA ยท On-site

$25K - $350K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

We were founded in 2005 by our President, Levi Stockton, as an FAA approved, Part 135, On-Demand ... The Lead Pilot will operate the aircraft as Pilot in Command (PIC) and report to Advanced Air ...

Chief Pilot

Austin, TX ยท On-site

About the Role Vectored Approach is expanding into private jet charter operations under FAA Part 135 and seeking an experienced Chief Pilot to lead this new division. This role is critical for ...

Pilot

Farmingdale, NY ยท Remote

$75K - $250K/yr

Why Talon AirTalon Air is a leading aircraft management and charter operator with FAA Part 135 ... Pilots benefit from a collaborative culture, modern fleet, strong maintenance infrastructure, and ...

Why Talon Air Talon Air is a leading aircraft management and charter operator with FAA Part 135 ... Pilots benefit from a collaborative culture, modern fleet, strong maintenance infrastructure, and ...

We are looking for an experienced pilot that would enjoy coaching others, value CRM and work with a ... Must have part 135 experience * Pervious Simulator Instructor experience preferred * Basic computer ...

Pilot

Portsmouth, NH

  • Medical

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Air New England is a dynamic and safety-focused Part 135 charter operator based inPortsmouth, New Hampshire, seeking a skilled and experienced full-time pilot to join ourgrowing team. This position ...

Flight Follower (Part 135)

Fairbanks, AK

$25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Exercise operational control in coordination with the Pilot in Command (PIC) to ensure safe, compliant, and efficient flight operations under 14 CFR Part 135 and company Operations Specifications.

Chief Pilot

Sellersburg, IN ยท On-site

$150K - $175K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Description Lead a Growing Part 135 Operation PrivateFlite Aviation is expanding - and we are ... We are seeking a Chief Pilot who can lead from the front - operationally, culturally, and ...

Pilot

Portsmouth, NH ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Description Air New England is a dynamic and safety-focused Part 135 charter operator based in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, seeking a skilled and experienced full-time pilot to join our growing team.

Flight Follower (Part 135)

Fairbanks, AK ยท On-site

$31/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Exercise operational control in coordination with the Pilot in Command (PIC) to ensure safe, compliant, and efficient flight operations under 14 CFR Part 135 and company Operations Specifications.

... pilot account operating under a mix of Part 135 and Part 91 operations. This is an opportunity to ... Why Talon Air Talon Air is a leading aircraft management and charter operator with FAA Part 135 ...

Assistant Chief Pilot

Naples, FL

$175K - $225K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Assistant Chief Pilot Based in Naples, FL We are searching for a highly skilled Assistant Chief Pilot to oversee Part 91 and Part 135 flight operations in Naples, FL. The ideal candidate will possess ...

Showing results 21-40

Freelance Part 135 Pilot information

See salary details

$14

$47

$132

How much do freelance part 135 pilot jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance part 135 pilot in the United States is $47.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $61.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance Part 135 pilot?

A Freelance Part 135 Pilot is a professional pilot who operates under Part 135 of the Federal Aviation Regulations as an independent contractor rather than as a full-time employee. Part 135 governs non-scheduled air charter and commuter operations, including transporting passengers or cargo for hire. Freelance pilots are hired by different operators as needed, offering flexibility in their work schedule and the opportunity to fly various aircraft. They must meet specific FAA requirements, including certifications, experience, and regular training, to maintain their eligibility to fly under Part 135. This role is ideal for experienced pilots seeking variety and the ability to manage their own workload.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a freelance Part 135 pilot?

To thrive as a Freelance Part 135 Pilot, you need a commercial pilot certificate, instrument rating, and sufficient flight experience, often meeting or exceeding FAA minimum requirements. Familiarity with advanced avionics, flight planning software, and maintaining compliance with FAA 135 regulations is essential. Strong decision-making, adaptability, and effective communication stand out as vital soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient operations and the ability to handle diverse flight scenarios and client expectations under regulatory oversight.

What challenges do freelance Part 135 pilots face with scheduling and maintaining flight currency?

Freelance Part 135 pilots often encounter challenges in securing a consistent flight schedule, as trip availability can be unpredictable and dependent on client demand. Maintaining flight currency and compliance with FAA regulations requires proactive planning, such as seeking out opportunities to fly regularly and staying updated on training requirements. Additionally, freelancers must efficiently manage communication with operators and clients, often juggling last-minute requests and adapting to changing itineraries. Building strong professional relationships with multiple operators can help mitigate these challenges and increase opportunities for steady work.

What is the difference between Freelance Part 135 Pilot vs Charter Pilot?

AspectFreelance Part 135 PilotCharter Pilot
CertificationsCommercial Pilot Certificate, Part 135 trainingCommercial Pilot Certificate, often Part 135 experience
Work EnvironmentOn-demand flights, multiple operatorsScheduled or on-demand charter flights
EmployerIndependent contractor or multiple operatorsPart of a charter company or operator

Both Freelance Part 135 Pilots and Charter Pilots operate under Part 135 regulations, requiring similar certifications. Freelance pilots typically work independently across various operators, offering flexible schedules. Charter pilots are usually employed by a specific charter company, flying scheduled or on-demand flights. The main difference lies in employment structure and work setup, with freelance pilots enjoying more independence and charter pilots working within a company environment.

More about Freelance Part 135 Pilot jobs

What cities are hiring for Freelance Part 135 Pilot jobs?

Cities with the most Freelance Part 135 Pilot job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Part 135 Pilot jobs?

The most popular types of Part 135 Pilot jobs are:

What states have the most Freelance Part 135 Pilot jobs?

States with the most job openings for Freelance Part 135 Pilot jobs include:

Infographic showing various Freelance Part 135 Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,230 per year, or $47.7 per hour.

Challenger 300 - Lead Pilot

ADVANCED AIR LLC

Hawthorne, CA โ€ข On-site

$25K - $350K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Description

Who We Are:


Advanced Air, LLC is an innovative, service-oriented aviation company headquartered in Hawthorne, California. We were founded in 2005 by our President, Levi Stockton, as an FAA approved, Part 135, On-Demand Air Carrier focused on superlative aircraft management and on demand charter.


Today, Advanced Air has more than 30 aircraft, operated in both scheduled and on-demand service, and a diversified portfolio of flying services in turboprop aircraft, business jets and regional passenger jets. Serving communities throughout the United States, Advanced Air has a deep commitment to operational excellence and metered, sustainable growth.


Our successful growth is driven by our adherence to our core values, safety, security, teamwork, and reliability. We are in this business for the long run and take a disciplined, thoughtful approach to growth opportunities.


About the Role and About You:


The Challenger 300 Lead Pilot position is based out of Hawthorne, CA (HHR). This is a 2-pilot account supported by a dedicated Maintenance Technician, flying under Part 135 (P135). This position requires a strong ability to multi-task, make high-level complex decisions, all while completing a variety of aviation-related tasks. This position will lead a team of 2 crew members and support Advanced Air's management of the aircraft. The Lead Pilot will operate the aircraft as Pilot in Command (PIC) and report to Advanced Air's Chief Pilot and, in his absence, the Director of Operations.ย 


This is not a commutable position - applicants must reside in or be willing to relocate to the Hawthorne/Greater Los Angeles area. If you are excited about aviation, looking to grow, and have all the required flight minimums and certifications, this may be the position for you!


What You Will Do:


Serve as the Lead Pilot and work with Advanced Air's VIP and Flight teams to facilitate and schedule owner flights, aircraft maintenance and flight crew training including:

  • Employee is required to attend to the aircraft at the management's direction for non-flight matters, including but not limited to vendor meetings, accepting deliveries, supervising service providers, or preparing the aircraft for upcoming trips.

Work with Advanced Air and the Assigned Crew including:

  • Manage the assigned crew's schedule and vacation requests and ensure they are available to handle owner-related tasks, from operating the aircraft to errands and aircraft servicing requests, including but not limited to picking up or delivering items (such as new dishes, amenities, catering, or personal effects) to or from the aircraft.

Maintain the aircraft in a readiness state including:

  • Responsible for ensuring the aircraft is owner-ready at all times, including but not limited to stocking, cleanliness, and organization of the interior and galley, verifying that all amenities, supplies, and consumables (food, candy, medicine, beverages, etc.) are present and unexpired.
  • Responsible for ensuring all passenger-facing electronics (e.g., iPads (updating movies each trip), iPod for music, AirShow, Wi-Fi, entertainment systems) are maintained and fully operational prior to each flight.
  • Assist with non-flight and ground duties as needed to support aircraft readiness and owner service, including helping with stocking, loading, unloading, and other aircraft-related logistics.

Oversee, in conjunction with Advanced Air, aircraft cleaning and stocking including:

  • Responsible for managing and arranging all onboard laundry and dry cleaning, including removal and drop-off/pick-up of linens, towels, crew and owner uniforms, and other washable items, as required.
  • Maintain an accurate and up-to-date inventory of all galley items, linens, bedding, and other supplies, restocking as needed and communicating with the owner or owner's representative for special requests.
  • Maintain Part 135 pilot qualification on the assigned aircraft.
  • Be able to pass a Preemployment DOT Drug test and be subject to random Drug Screening.
  • Oversee aircraft expenses and ensure they are maintained within budget.ย 
  • Lead production of SOPs, Checklists, LOA approvals, and other Challenger 300 items as instructed by the Chief Pilot and DO.
  • Retain the final authority for the safe operation of the aircraft (FAR 91.3)ย 
  • Maintain responsibility for the security of the aircraft during its operation.ย 
  • Ensure that the assigned aircraft is airworthy by completing a preflight inspection per the AFM and verifying that all required documents are on board the aircraft.ย 
  • Review all flight briefs regarding the purpose of the flight, weather, operating procedures, notes and any special instructions, plans and flight assignments.ย 
  • Comply with all Federal Aviation regulations, company operations manual, operations specifications, standard operating procedures, and company policies and procedures.
  • Update flight and duty records, determine eligibility for the next flight assignment, and ensure any aircraft maintenance discrepancies are reported and in accordance with Company Policies and Proceduresย 
  • Proactively participate in and promote safety management systems by identifying, reporting, and mitigating hazards and quality issues; providing timely input to management and applying systems processes to address quality and safety issues.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice. The employee understands that, in addition to the duties listed, they may be assigned any other task reasonably related to the operation, presentation, service, and readiness of the aircraft, both in flight and on the ground, as directed by the owner or their representative.


Requirements

What We Are Looking For:

  • High school diploma or GED
  • CFI, CFII, and MEI Certificates preferred, but not required.
  • Digital dexterity for aircraft preflight and post-flight.
  • Airline Transport Pilot (ATP)
  • Challenger 300 PIC Type Rating
  • 3,000 hours Total Time.ย 
  • 1,000 PIC Turbine
  • High-level working knowledge of FAR Part 91, 61 and AIM Part Sections 4 & 5
  • Ability to work in confined spaces and to manipulate, push, pull, and lift heavy objects in excess of 150 lbs.
  • Ability to climb onto and off of an airplane wing as part of the preflight, post-flight, or during an over wing emergency exit.
  • Ability to execute flights of up to 4.5 hours up to a total flight time of 10 hours per day during a 14-hour duty period.

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.


What you Can Expect:


Industry standard compensation. Support from Advanced Air's management team to succeed in the role. Employees shall devote their full working time and attention exclusively to the account and may not operate, fly, or provide services for any other aircraft or employer without the express written permission of the Chief Pilot or Director of Operations.


Why You Should Work with Us:


We can tell you all about how great we are, but you probably want to know what is in it for you, so we have compiled a list of our standout benefits:

  • 401(k) plan with dollar-for-dollar employer match up to 4%
  • 100% Company Paid Health Insurance including Medical, Dental, Vision and $15,000 in life insurance for yourself.
  • KCM for your personal travel
  • $3.12 Domestic, $4.16 International Per diem pay for all hours associated with Flight Duty
  • Easy to use Flight/Travel Benefits; current contracts include Delta, Alaska, and Southwest

FYI:


We believe a diversity of perspectives and experiences is what makes a strong team. The stronger our team, the closer we are to our mission. So come join us! We are looking for people of all genders, races, ethnicities, orientations, abilities, and disabilities to come sit at our tables and fly our planes.


Physical Demands and Work Environment:


The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently stooping, climbing, bending, kneeling, lifting (minimum 50 lbs.) and operating machinery with repetitive motions.


The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The work environment includes working outdoors and in all weather conditions. May incur exposure to constant or intermittent sounds of a pitch or level significant enough to cause marked distraction or possible hearing loss while performing operations on the airfield ramp. Exposure to fumes, dust, loud noise, and/or outdoor weather conditions.


Selection Guidelines:


Formal application, rating of education and experience; oral interviews and reference checks; job-related tests may be required. The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.


The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.