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Part 121 Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Previous Part 121, 125, or equivalent airline/military experience * Ability to obtain and maintain ... Retired Pilots Welcome Recently retired airline pilots are encouraged to apply. This role is ideal ...

Chief Pilot

Greenwood Village, CO · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

Minimum of 3 years' experience, within the past 6 years, as pilot in command of an aircraft operated under part 121 or part 135 of the CFRs; or, In the case of a person with previous experience as a ...

... Pilot in Command, for the preparation and issuance of the flight release in accordance with WGA's approved/accepted, as applicable, procedures under 14 CFR Part 121. * Monitor the progress of the ...

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Part 121 Pilot information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do part 121 pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for part 121 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 are some common challenges Part 121 Pilots face during multi-leg flight schedules, and how can they effectively manage them?

Part 121 Pilots often encounter challenges such as fatigue from multiple flight segments, tight turnaround times, and adapting to rapidly changing weather or operational conditions. Effective time management, thorough pre-flight preparation, and adherence to rest regulations are critical for maintaining safety and performance. Pilots also benefit from strong communication skills to coordinate efficiently with dispatchers, cabin crew, and air traffic control, ensuring smooth operations throughout their duty period.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Part 121 Pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Part 121 Pilot, you need an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate, strong aeronautical knowledge, and extensive flight experience, often with specific type ratings. Proficiency with advanced avionics, flight management systems, and regulatory compliance software is essential, along with recurrent training and checkrides. Exceptional situational awareness, decision-making, teamwork, and communication skills help pilots manage complex situations and ensure safety. These skills and qualifications are critical for maintaining operational safety, regulatory compliance, and effective crew coordination in commercial airline operations.

What is the difference between Part 121 Pilot vs Part 135 Pilot?

AspectPart 121 PilotPart 135 Pilot
CertificationsCommercial Pilot Certificate, ATP certificate often requiredCommercial Pilot Certificate, often with additional type ratings
Work EnvironmentScheduled airline operations, large aircraft, multiple crew membersCharter, on-demand flights, smaller aircraft, flexible schedules
Employer & IndustryMajor airlines, regional carriersCharter companies, air taxi services

Part 121 Pilots operate scheduled airline flights with larger aircraft and require specific certifications like the ATP. They typically work for major or regional airlines. In contrast, Part 135 Pilots operate on-demand or charter flights, often with smaller aircraft, and may have different certification requirements. Both roles are essential in the aviation industry but differ mainly in operation type, aircraft size, and work environment.

What is a Part 121 pilot?

A Part 121 pilot is a commercial airline pilot who operates flights under Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations Part 121, which governs scheduled air carriers in the United States. These pilots fly for airlines that provide regular, scheduled air service, and must adhere to strict safety, training, and operational standards set by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Part 121 pilots typically hold an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate and undergo rigorous recurrent training. Their responsibilities include safely operating large passenger or cargo aircraft, pre-flight planning, and ensuring compliance with all federal regulations.
Infographic showing various Part 121 Pilot job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 3% Full Time, and 95% Part Time. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

Experienced First Officer - Horizon Air

Horizon Air

Spokane, WA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

CompanyHorizon AirThe Team

As a pilot for Horizon Air, you will be among the best in the regional airline industry as you fly throughout the West. To help keep you at the top of your game, we offer attractive compensation, development opportunities, a path to our mainline carrier Alaska Airlines, and a great team that's known for its skill and close-knit teamwork. 

Role Summary

The First Officer Experienced is responsible for ensuring a safe journey and a positive experience for all Horizon Air (QX) guests while continually maintaining a high-level of professionalism. This is a union represented position.

Key Duties
  • Perform as Second in Command in the transport of passengers, mail, freight, or for other commercial purposes. Responsible for all aspects and conduct of flight to include preflight of required paperwork and restrictions, conduct of safe flight, and all post flight duties.
  • Comply with Federal Aviation Regulations (FAA), Company Flight Procedures, and Company Policies on scheduled flights and routes to ensure safety of flight.
  • Coordinate tasks to permit flight fueling, loading, passenger handling, etc. and associated duties to transport passengers in a safe manner in accordance with company policies and procedures, FOM, FAR's, and CRF's.
  • Pilots are team members both in the flight deck (Cockpit Resource Management), and with other operational departments.
  • Pilots are expected to present a professional image, including grooming standards and demeanor, at all times as a key representative of the company to both internal and external customers.
Job-Specific Experience, Education & Skills

Required

  • 200 hours of FAA-approved Prior Qualifying Time to serve as pilot in command in part 121 operations (per FAR 121.436(a)(3)). Candidates will need to provide proof they have obtained this flight time requirement. All prior qualifying time will be verified in pilot logbooks with the System Chief Pilot and/or the Director of Operations at time of interview.
    • 200 hours as second in command at a part 121 carrier (per FAR 121.436(a)(3)); or
    • 200 hours as pilot in command at a part 91 carrier flying a multi-engine turbine-powered fixed-wing or powered-lift aircraft with an Airline transport pilot license and an applicable type rating (per FAR 91.1053(a)(2)(i)); or
    • 200 hours as pilot in command at a part 135 carrier in passenger-carrying operations of a turbojet airplane with a passenger-seat configuration, excluding each crewmember seat, of 10 seats of more (per FAR 135.243(a)(1)); or
    • 200 hours as pilot in command at a part 135 carrier in passenger-carrying operations of a multiengine airplane in a commuter operation (per FAR 135.243(a)(1)); or
    • 200 hours as pilot in command at a part 135 carrier holding an airline transport pilot certificate and if required appropriate type rating for that airplane (per FAR 135.243(a)(1)); or
    • 200 hours of military flight time obtained as pilot in command of a multiengine turbine-powered, fixed-wing airplane or powered-lift aircraft in an operation requiring more than one pilot (per FAR 121.436 (c)).
  • A minimum of 1,465 hours of total flight time or R-ATP qualified.
  • 500 hours of cross-country flight time or 200 if R-ATP or military qualified.
  • 100 hours of night flight time.
  • 250 total hours of flight time as pilot in command including 100 hours of cross-country flight time and 25 hours of night flight time.
  • 75 hours of instrument flight time in actual or simulated instrument conditions.
  • 25 hours of multi-engine flight time.
  • FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate with multi-engine and instrument ratings.
  • Must possess a current First-Class FAA Medical Certificate.
  • FCC permit restricted radiotelephone operator.
  • Must have and be able to maintain a valid passport allowing unrestricted travel, without a TRP, to and from the U.S.
  • Must possess a valid Driver's License.
  • Excellent judgment, leadership skills, demonstrated command ability and maturity.
  • Must be willing to accept a base assignment in Seattle, WA; Portland, OR; Spokane, WA; Boise, ID; Medford, OR; Anchorage, AK or Everett, WA based on company need.
  • Must be willing to work multiple days away from home, working a varied schedule, including weekends and holidays without restrictions.
  • Ability to communicate in English.
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Minimum age of 21 years old.
  • Must be authorized to work in the U.S.

Preferred

  • 100 hours of multi-engine flight time.
  • 100 hours flown in the last 12 months.
  • Four-year degree from an accredited University.
Airport SIDA Badge Requirements

Important notification for employees working at an airport or maintenance hangar: Employees will be required to obtain a SIDA badge provided by the airport authority and maintain good standing in order to keep their SIDA badge. Review the SIDA Badge Requirements document for a comprehensive overview. If an employee does not qualify for a SIDA badge or has their SIDA badge pulled from them, the employee will be terminated. 

Job-Specific Leadership Expectations

Embody our values to own safety, do the right thing, be caring and kind, and deliver performance.

BonusPay Details

Prior Part 121 Longevity Pay Credit:

We are offering a longevity match for hourly rates with no cap for pilots with prior part 121 experience. Year-for-year longevity pay is contingent upon the pilot maintaining a permanent bid preferencing all Captain positions as their highest priority bids.

Salary Details
  • First year pay rate: $92.72
  • Monthly pay guarantee (jet): 75 credit hours
  • Reserve pay guarantee: 73 credit hours
Total Rewards

Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines and Horizon Air pay and benefits can vary by company, location, number of regularly scheduled hours worked, length of employment, and employment status.

  • This role pays per collective bargaining agreement.
  • Free stand-by travel privileges on Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines & Horizon Air
  • Comprehensive well-being programs including medical, dental and vision benefits
  • Generous 401k contribution/match program
  • Annual bonus plans
  • Generous holiday and paid time off

For more information about Alaska/Hawaiian/Horizon Total Rewards please visit our career site and view benefits.

FLSA StatusExemptRegular/TemporaryRegularApply by 7:00 PM Pacific Time on9/30/2026LocationPortland, OR - PilotsRegulatory Information

Equal Employment Opportunity Policy Statement  

It is the policy of Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines and Horizon Air to comply with all applicable federal, state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment and to ensure equal opportunity in all terms, conditions, and benefits of employment or potential employment.   

We also prohibit discrimination and harassment against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information and other legally protected categories.  

We have established an EEO Compliance Program under Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 ("Section 503") and the Vietnam Era Veteran's Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974 ("VEVRAA").  All applicants and employees are treated without regard to their race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. In addition, we have established an audit and reporting system to allow for effective measurement of its equal employment opportunity activities.   

To implement this policy, we will: 

(1) Recruit, hire, train and promote qualified persons in all job titles, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information and any other legally protected categories; (2) Ensure that employment decisions are based only on valid job requirements; and (3) Ensure that all personnel actions and employment activities such as compensation, benefits, promotions, layoffs, return from layoff, Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines and Horizon Air sponsored programs, and tuition assistance will be administered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information and other legally protected categories. 

Employees and applicants for employment will not be subjected to harassment, intimidation, threats, coercion or discrimination because they have engaged or may engage in (1) filing a complaint, (2) opposing any act or practice made unlawful by, or exercising any other right protected by, any Federal, State or local law requiring equal opportunity, including Section 503 and the equal opportunity provisions of VEVRAA, or (3) assisting or participating in any investigation, compliance evaluation, hearing, or any other activity related to the administration of any Federal, State or local law requiring equal opportunity, including Section 503 and the equal opportunity provisions  of VEVRAA. 

Government Contractor & Department of Transportation (DOT) Regulations Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines & Horizon Air are regulated by the Department of Transportation (DOT - regulations, 49 CFR part 40) and all applicants are advised that post-offer and/or pre-employment drug testing will be conducted to determine the presence of marijuana, cocaine, opioids, phencyclidine (PCP) and amphetamines or a metabolite of these drugs prior to any offer or employment or transfer into a safety-sensitive position. Failure to submit to testing or positive indications of drug use will render the applicant ineligible for employment with Alaska Airlines/Hawaiian Airlines/Horizon Air and any employment offer will be withdrawn. 

Requisition TypeFrontlineRequisition ID2026-18545Employment Type: FULL_TIME