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Pilot Intern Jobs in Atlanta, GA (NOW HIRING)

Pilot Intern information

See Atlanta, GA salary details

$8

$16

$22

How much do pilot intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for pilot intern in Atlanta, GA is $16.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.85 and $18.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a pilot intern?

Pilot Interns are students or recent graduates who participate in internship programs with airlines or aviation organizations to gain hands-on experience in the field of aviation. These internships typically involve shadowing experienced pilots, assisting with flight planning, and learning about aircraft operations and safety procedures. The goal of a Pilot Internship is to provide practical exposure to the aviation industry and help interns build valuable skills for their future careers as professional pilots.

What types of hands-on experience can I expect during a pilot intern program?

As a Pilot Intern, you can expect to participate in a variety of hands-on experiences, including assisting with pre-flight inspections, observing and sometimes participating in cockpit procedures under supervision, and learning about flight planning and weather analysis. Many programs also offer the opportunity to shadow experienced pilots and attend simulator training sessions. These activities provide valuable exposure to real-world airline operations and help interns build foundational skills and confidence for a future aviation career.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a pilot intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Pilot Intern, you need a foundational understanding of aviation theory, basic flight training, and typically enrollment in or completion of an accredited aviation program. Familiarity with flight simulators, aviation weather systems, and navigation tools is commonly required, along with progress toward a private pilot license (PPL) or similar certification. Strong communication, situational awareness, and teamwork are essential soft skills that help interns integrate with flight crews and learn effectively. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safety, building technical competence, and preparing for advancement in a highly regulated and dynamic field.

What is the difference between Pilot Intern vs Flight Instructor?

AspectPilot InternFlight Instructor
Required CredentialsStudent pilot certificate, basic flight trainingCommercial pilot license, flight instructor certificate
Work EnvironmentFlight training schools, airline internshipsFlight schools, general aviation, airline training
Employer & Industry UsageAirlines, flight training programsFlight schools, aviation training companies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

While a Pilot Intern is typically a student gaining initial flight experience and training, a Flight Instructor is a licensed pilot who teaches others how to fly. Pilot Interns focus on learning and accumulating flight hours, whereas Flight Instructors provide instruction and mentorship to aspiring pilots. Both roles are essential in aviation training but differ in certification requirements and responsibilities.

Can you intern as a pilot?

Yes, pilot internships are available and typically involve training programs that provide hands-on experience with flight operations, aircraft systems, and safety procedures. Interns often need to hold a student pilot certificate or relevant certifications and may be required to complete ground school or flight training hours under supervision.

What are the most commonly searched types of Pilot jobs in Atlanta, GA?

The most popular types of Pilot jobs in Atlanta, GA are:

Infographic showing various Pilot Intern job openings in Atlanta, GA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 17% Internship, 1% As Needed, 52% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,615 per year, or $16.6 per hour.

Intern, Professional Flight - Flight Operations (Spring 2027)

Atlanta, GA • On-site


Delta Air Lines, Inc.
Aviation • 10K+ employees

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 327 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 26 rated airlines

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students


$14.75 - $19.25/hr

Internship

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

A Flight Operations (Flight School) intern will assist in achieving divisional goals and contributing to the overall success of Delta Air Lines. Interns will be working with a specific team such as but not limited to Training and Standards, Line Operations or the Chief Pilot Office . While each intern will be assigned individual duties, all interns are expected to work as a team to complete a team assignment that will be presented to Flight Operations Leadership at the end of the semester.

Interns will have the opportunity to learn about other departments, such as but not limited to Flight Safety, Operations Customer Center, Technical Operations, In-Flight Service, and Airport Customer Service.

This is a paid internship, including additional privileges such as standby travel anywhere in the Delta system while off duty. 

This is not a remote position, Interns will work on-site at Delta's World Headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia.



Delta Air Lines logo

About Delta Air Lines

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Delta Air Lines, headquartered in Atlanta, GA, US, is one of the major players in the aviation industry with an official website, delta.com. Established in 1929, the airline is recognized globally for its wide range of airline services, including passenger and cargo transport. Originally envisioned as a crop-dusting service, Delta has progressed over the decades into a globally acclaimed airline, serving more than 200 million customers annually across a substantial international network spanning over 50 countries. Delta’s core values are rooted in honesty, integrity, respect, perseverance, and service and its mission is to connect the world in a safe, reliable, and customer-centric manner.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Atlanta, GA, US


What Delta Air Lines employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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