1

Freelance Small Aircraft Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Helicopter Pilot

Somerset, PA · On-site

$75K - $93K/yr

EMS Air Medical Aircraft: EC145 (VFR) AIR METHODS: GO ABOVE AND BEYOND HERE! As the leader in the ... Living and working in Somerset, PA offers the perfect blend of small-town warmth and big adventure.

Helicopter Pilot

Fanning Springs, FL · On-site

$74.61 - $91.19/hr

Location Life in Chiefland offers a refreshing change of pace where natural beauty and small-town ... Operates Air Methods aircraft in a safe and legal manner. * Completes pre-flight before every ...

New

Helicopter Pilot

Newark, DE · On-site

$88K - $109K/yr

Overview Rotor Wing Pilot - Christiana Care Newark, DEEMS Air Medical Aircraft: H145 D3 (IFR)$10 ... small-town charm and outdoor adventure, all while keeping you close to the action of major ...

... of small-town warmth and big-city opportunity. Benefits Air Methods is proud to offer a ... Operates Air methods aircraft in a safe and legal manner. Completes pre-flight before every flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Willcox, AZ · On-site

$85K - $106K/yr

Overview Rotor Wing Pilot - LifeNet of Arizona Willcox, AZEMS Air Medical Aircraft: EC130 (VFR) $10 ... small-town living and big outdoor opportunity. Benefits Air Methods is proud to offer a ...

$90 - $120/hr

Overview Rotor Wing Pilot - HealthNetMorgantown, WVEMS Air Medical Aircraft: EC145e (IFR)$15,000 ... small-town warmth and big-city opportunity. Just a short drive from Pittsburgh, Washington D.C ...

New

Helicopter Pilot

Sidney, NY · On-site

$82.90 - $93.25/hr

Overview Rotor Wing Pilot - LifeNetSidney, NYEMS Air Medical Aircraft: EC130 (VFR)$30,000 Annual ... Living in Sidney, NY is special for its perfect blend of small-town charm and natural beauty.

New

Helicopter Pilot

Lansdale, PA · On-site

$87K - $108K/yr

Overview Rotor Wing Pilot - JeffSTATLansdale, PAEMS Air Medical Aircraft: EC135 (VFR)$15,000 ... Living and working in Lansdale, PA, is a uniquely vibrant experience, seamlessly blending small ...

Helicopter Pilot

Panacea, FL · On-site

$77K - $96K/yr

Overview Rotor Wing Pilot - AirLife 1 FloridaCrawfordville, FLEMS Air Medical Aircraft: B407 (VFR ... Crawfordville, where small-town charm meets endless outdoor adventure. Just minutes from the ...

Helicopter Pilot

Show Low, AZ · On-site

$85K - $106K/yr

Overview Rotor Wing Pilot - Native AirShow Low, AZ EMS Air Medical Aircraft: AS350 (VFR)$15,000 ... With cooler temps, stunning starry skies, and endless outdoor recreation, Show Low blends small ...

Helicopter Pilot

Willcox, AZ · On-site

$90 - $135/hr

Overview Rotor Wing Pilot - LifeNet of Arizona Willcox, AZEMS Air Medical Aircraft: EC130 (VFR) $10 ... small-town living and big outdoor opportunity. Benefits Air Methods is proud to offer a ...

Helicopter Pilot

Hazleton, PA · On-site

$89K - $111K/yr

Overview Rotor Wing Pilot - Hazleton, PA Lehigh Valley MedEvac EMS Air Medical Aircraft: BK117C2 ... Living and working in Hazleton, PA, and its surrounding areas offer a unique blend of small-town ...

Helicopter Pilot

Woodbine, NJ

$92K - $115K/yr

Overview Rotor Wing Pilot - JeffSTATWoodbine, NJEMS Air Medical Aircraft: EC145 (VFR)$15,000 ... Living and working in Woodbine, NJ offers the perfect balance of small-town charm and exciting ...

Helicopter Pilot

Sidney, NY · On-site

$82K/yr

Overview Rotor Wing Pilot - LifeNetSidney, NYEMS Air Medical Aircraft: EC130 (VFR)$30,000 Annual ... Living in Sidney, NY is special for its perfect blend of small-town charm and natural beauty.

Helicopter Pilot

Taos, NM · On-site

$87K - $109K/yr

In Taos, you get small-town authenticity, big-mountain adventure, and a lifestyle that feels ... Operates Air Methods aircraft in a safe and legal manner. Completes pre-flight before every flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Show Low, AZ · On-site

$85K - $106K/yr

Overview Rotor Wing Pilot - Native AirShow Low, AZ EMS Air Medical Aircraft: AS350 (VFR)$15,000 ... With cooler temps, stunning starry skies, and endless outdoor recreation, Show Low blends small ...

Helicopter Pilot

Martinsville, VA · On-site

$84K - $105K/yr

Overview Rotor Wing Pilot - Air Life VirginiaMartinsville, VAEMS Air Medical Aircraft: EC135 (VFR ... Living and working in Martinsville, VA offers the perfect blend of small-town warmth and scenic ...

Helicopter Pilot

Pottsville, PA · On-site

$82K - $102K/yr

Overview Rotor Wing Pilot - MedEvacPottsville, PAEMS Air Medical Aircraft: EC135 (VFR)$10,000 ... small-town charm and big opportunities. With its rich history, welcoming community, and scenic ...

Helicopter Pilot

Westover, WV · On-site

$92K - $115K/yr

Overview Rotor Wing Pilot - HealthNetMorgantown, WVEMS Air Medical Aircraft: EC145e (IFR)$15,000 ... small-town warmth and big-city opportunity. Just a short drive from Pittsburgh, Washington D.C ...

Showing results 41-60

Freelance Small Aircraft Pilot information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

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

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance small aircraft 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 does a freelance small aircraft pilot do?

A freelance small aircraft pilot operates light aircraft on a contract or project basis instead of being employed full-time by a single company. Their duties can include flying passengers, transporting cargo, conducting aerial surveys, or providing flight instruction. Freelance pilots are responsible for maintaining their certifications, ensuring aircraft safety, and managing scheduling and administrative tasks. They often work with private clients, charter services, or small businesses, offering flexible flying services based on demand.

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

To thrive as a Freelance Small Aircraft Pilot, you need a valid commercial pilot’s license, strong knowledge of aviation regulations, and extensive flight experience in small aircraft. Familiarity with flight planning software, GPS navigation systems, and aircraft maintenance logs is typically required. Excellent situational awareness, adaptability, and clear communication are standout soft skills for client interactions and responding to in-flight challenges. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring passenger safety, regulatory compliance, and successful mission completion in diverse flying conditions.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance small aircraft pilots, and how can they be managed?

Freelance small aircraft pilots often encounter challenges such as irregular schedules, variable demand, and the need to juggle multiple clients. Managing these challenges involves proactive communication with clients, maintaining flexibility in availability, and staying current with certifications and regulatory requirements. Building a strong professional network and consistently delivering safe, reliable service can also help secure repeat business and referrals, making the freelance career path more stable and rewarding.

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

AspectFreelance Small Aircraft Pilot
CertificationsPrivate Pilot License (PPL), possibly Commercial Pilot License (CPL) depending on work
Work EnvironmentSelf-employed, on-demand flights, varied locations
EmployerIndependent, clients or charter companies

While both roles require pilot certifications, Freelance Small Aircraft Pilots operate independently, offering flexible, on-demand services. Commercial Small Aircraft Pilots typically work for companies or charter services, with more structured schedules and employment terms. The key difference lies in employment status and work setup, with freelancers managing their own contracts and clients.

More about Freelance Small Aircraft Pilot jobs

What cities are hiring for Freelance Small Aircraft Pilot jobs?

Cities with the most Freelance Small Aircraft Pilot job openings:

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

The most popular types of Small Aircraft Pilot jobs are:

What states have the most Freelance Small Aircraft Pilot jobs?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Freelance Small Aircraft Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

Helicopter Pilot

Air Methods Pilots

Somerset, PA • On-site

$75K - $93K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Overview

Rotor Wing Pilot - Conemaugh MedStarSomerset, PAEMS Air Medical Aircraft:  BK117 (VFR)$15,000 Annual Stipend, and $15,000 Sign-on Bonus Available

Coming Soon: EMS Air Medical Aircraft: EC145 (VFR)

AIR METHODS: GO ABOVE AND BEYOND HERE!

As the leader in the air medical industry, Air Methods seeks exceptional pilots to partner with us to serve our communities. We are committed to providing air medical transport resources to our communities 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, while providing our pilots with work/life balance. Our #1 objective is to ensure safety to/from every time, so come join our growing and high-performing culture, sparked by teammates who deliver on being the best!

Living and working in Somerset, PA offers the perfect blend of small-town warmth and big adventure. Nestled in the scenic Laurel Highlands, Somerset is a paradise for outdoor lovers-with skiing at Seven Springs, hiking the Great Allegheny Passage, and stunning mountain views around every turn. The area boasts a rich history, a strong sense of community, and a relaxed pace of life that's hard to beat. Yet you're never far from the action-Pittsburgh is just 1.5 hours away, offering pro sports, dining, and culture, while weekend escapes to the Atlantic coast or Washington, D.C. are easily within reach. It's where Appalachian charm meets opportunity.

Benefits

Air Methods is proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package created with the diverse needs of our teammates in mind:

  • Health, Dental and Vision
  • Competitive 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • Flexible Spending Account Benefit Plans
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Full Company-Paid Life Insurance
  • AD&D Insurance
  • Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Business Travel Accident Insurance
  • Voluntary Legal
  • Relocation Assistance
  • Employee Assistance and Benefit Concierge Service Programs

Job Summary

Responsible to ensure aircraft and weather conditions are airworthy to transport medical crew and patient to receiving hospital within an assigned operational area. Responsible for compliance with Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR), Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM), General Operations Manual guidelines (GOM), and thorough knowledge of Air Methods policies and procedures.

Responsibilities

Essential Functions and Responsibilities 

  • Operates Air Methods aircraft in a safe and legal manner.
  • Completes pre-flight before every flight verifying the aircraft is in an airworthy condition by sign off of Daily Flight Log. Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight and upon completion of each flight.
  • Final authority with regard to operations of aircraft and for the safety of passengers, cargo and equipment.
  • Must be thoroughly familiar with all aircraft and medical systems of backup aircraft utilized at operational area and also ensures that the medical flight team is familiar and comfortable with the medical interior and systems.
  • Responsible for completion of required documentation.
  • Able to conduct detailed flight planning with little notice to exacting standards.
  • Participates regularly in Air Methods meetings, activities, projects, committees and community outreach.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Additional Job Requirements

  • Regular scheduled attendance - 7 days on/7 days off (12-hour shifts)

Subject to applicable laws and Air Method's policies, regular attendance is an essential function of the position. All employees must follow Air Methods' employment practices and policies.

Qualifications

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily.  The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.  In accordance with applicable laws, Air Methods will provide reasonable accommodations that do not create an undue burden so disabled employees may perform the essential functions of the position.

Education & Experience

  • Associate's degree (A.A.) or equivalent from two-year college or technical school and two  to five years' related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Bachelor's degree preferred

 Skills

  • Pilots must have flown in category for a commercial operator or in the military within the previous 24 months
  • Maintains positive interpersonal relationships with colleagues, EMS representatives, hospitals and the public and strives to maintain a friendly and professional working environment

Visual Flight Rules (VFR) Program - Minimum Required Flight Times: 

  • 2000 total flight hours with minimum of 1500 flight hours in category
  • 1000 hours PIC in category
  • 500 hours of rotor wing turbine time
  • 200 hours of cross-country flight time, at least 50 hours of which were at night
  • 100 hours unaided night as PIC (50 hours of unaided can be substituted for by 100 hours of NVG time, but cannot be reduced below 50 hours of unaided time)
  • 50 hours total actual or hood instrument time in flight and in category (simulator time does not count) (for a RW candidate who is FW rated, 100 hours or greater of FW actual or hood Instrument time can reduce the RW required instrument time to 25 hours). 

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations

  • Commercial & Instrument Rating (for category and class of aircraft)
  • ATP rating in category meets this requirement
  • First OR Second Class FAA Medical certificate required.

Operation and Safety Requirements:

  • As a member of the Flight Crew, any person employed in this position shall maintain a weight not to exceed 250 pounds and shall be less than seventy (70) years old.

Internal Bidding Ends: 8/11/2026

Minimum payMaximum PayBenefits

For more information on our industry-leading benefits, please visit our benefits page here. 

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)

Air Methods is an EEO/AA employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. 

Employment Type: FULL_TIME