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Private Pilot Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

UAS Operations Test Engineer

Huntsville, AL ยท On-site

$92K - $166K/yr

Possession or ability to possess Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (or a private pilot's license). * Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to develop detailed technical ...

UAS Operations Test Engineer

Huntsville, AL ยท On-site

$92K - $166K/yr

Possession or ability to possess Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (or a private pilot's license). * Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to develop detailed technical ...

UAS Operations Test Engineer

Huntsville, AL ยท On-site

$92K - $166K/yr

Possession or ability to possess Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (or a private pilot's license). * Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to develop detailed technical ...

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Showing results 1-20

Private Pilot information

See Alabama salary details

$44.9K

$118.7K

$182.2K

How much do private pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for private pilot in Alabama is $118,661.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,600.00 and $140,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a private pilot?

Private pilots are individuals who hold a Private Pilot License (PPL), which allows them to fly aircraft for personal or recreational purposes but not for commercial compensation or hire. They are trained to operate small airplanes, follow aviation regulations, and ensure the safety of their flights. Private pilots can carry passengers, fly cross-country, and access a wide range of airports, but they must adhere to certain limitations such as not being paid for their flying services. The PPL is often seen as the first major step for those interested in aviation, either as a hobby or as a foundation for further advanced pilot certifications.

What does a private pilot do?

As a private pilot, you can use a private pilot license (PPL) to operate a non-commercial aircraft and fly yourself or passengers around. This is essentially the recreational level of flying, and private pilots often support community events through volunteer activities like taking children on short flights to help them experience the joy of flying. Private pilots are not allowed to charge passengers, transport freight for money, or perform any other tasks that could qualify as a job. To get paid for flying an aircraft, you need at least a commercial pilot's license, and many trainees obtain a private pilot license while working toward professional licensure.

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

To thrive as a Private Pilot, you need a strong understanding of aeronautical principles, flight regulations, and navigation, backed by a Private Pilot Certificate from the FAA. Familiarity with flight planning software, aircraft control systems, and radio communication tools is essential. Excellent situational awareness, decision-making skills, and calmness under pressure set outstanding pilots apart. These abilities ensure safe, efficient flight operations and effective handling of unexpected situations in the air.

What are some common challenges faced by private pilots during cross-country flights?

Private pilots often encounter challenges such as varying weather conditions, complex airspace navigation, and maintaining situational awareness during cross-country flights. Managing fuel planning, coordinating with air traffic control, and ensuring compliance with flight regulations require careful preparation and decision-making. Building experience through regular flying and thorough pre-flight planning helps mitigate these challenges and ensures safe, efficient journeys.

What is the difference between Private Pilot vs Commercial Pilot?

AspectPrivate PilotCommercial Pilot
CertificationsFederal Aviation Administration (FAA) Private Pilot CertificateFAA Commercial Pilot Certificate
Work EnvironmentPersonal flying, recreational, non-commercial activitiesPaid flying, charter services, aerial work
Employer & Industry UsageIndividuals, flight schools, private ownersAirlines, charter companies, aerial survey

The main difference between a Private Pilot and a Commercial Pilot lies in their certifications and permitted activities. Private Pilots can fly for personal or recreational purposes but cannot be paid for their flights. Commercial Pilots, on the other hand, hold additional certifications allowing them to be compensated for their flying services. Both roles require FAA certifications, but the scope of work and employment opportunities differ significantly.

Can you get jobs as a private pilot?

Private pilots can find employment opportunities in areas such as flight instruction, aerial photography, crop dusting, and charter services. However, many private pilot jobs require additional certifications, experience, and often involve part-time or seasonal work. Advancement to paid flying positions typically requires obtaining an commercial pilot certificate and gaining flight hours.

How much money can a private pilot make?

Private pilots typically do not earn a full-time income from flying and often fly as a hobby or for personal reasons. Those who work as flight instructors or in other aviation roles can earn between $25,000 and $75,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and additional certifications. Most private pilots pursue flying as a supplement to other careers or for recreational purposes rather than as a primary source of income.

What are the most commonly searched types of Private Pilot jobs in Alabama?

The most popular types of Private Pilot jobs in Alabama are:

What are popular job titles related to Private Pilot jobs in Alabama?

For Private Pilot jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Private Pilot jobs in Alabama look for?

The top searched job categories for Private Pilot jobs in Alabama are:

What cities in Alabama are hiring for Private Pilot jobs?

Cities in Alabama with the most Private Pilot job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Private Pilot jobs in AL?

For Private Pilot jobs in AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Private Pilot job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 78% In-person, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $118,661 per year, or $57 per hour.

Pilot in Command (PIC) - G650ER - Birmingham, AL

Birmingham, AL โ€ข On-site

Four Corners Aviation
Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturingย โ€ขย 11 - 50 employees

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Welcome to Four Corners, where we are redefining private aviation. As a dynamic new force in the industry backed by deep aviation roots, we offer a comprehensive suite of services, including Aircraft Management, Charter, and our innovative Freedom™ program—corporate jets as a service.

Four Corners is committed to offering personalized solutions that meet the highest standards of safety and customer care, setting new benchmarks for the industry. Our tagline, Be There™, embodies our mission to deliver unparalleled convenience and reliability – Four Corners allows you to simply Be There, and we take care of the rest. 

Our Company Values are deeply held and distinctly evident in everything we undertake.

  • Teamwork: Collaborate with a dynamic team that values each member's contributions and works together to achieve common goals.
  • Stewardship: Take pride in making decisions that uphold values of integrity and ethics and being responsible with customers' time.
  • Community: Be part of a supportive community that fosters growth, learning, and mutual respect.
  • Excellence: Strive for excellence in everything you do, from client interactions to innovative solutions.
  • Abundance: Embrace a mindset of enthusiasm and passion, where opportunities for growth and success are limitless.
  • Customer Obsession: We put our clients at the heart of everything we do, ensuring their needs are met with the highest standards of service.

If you're driven by a passion for aviation and a dedication to client service, Four Corners offers an exciting opportunity to be part of a forward-thinking team. We seek talented individuals eager to contribute to our mission and grow with us.

Ready to make your mark in private aviation? Apply today and experience what it means to truly Be There™ with Four Corners.

 

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Pilot-in-Command reports to the Chief Pilot regarding Company policies and procedures. Duties will involve FAR Part 91/135 operations as part of a crew.

The Pilot-in-Command has the following responsibility for safe transportation of passengers, crewmembers, and cargo during all aircraft operations. He / She may delegate duties but not the responsibility of those duties.

To serve as Pilot-in-Command in any aircraft he/she must hold an Airline Transport Pilot Certificate with the appropriate category and class rating and be qualified for their assigned position.

Candidate must be located within 90 minutes of Birmingham, AL. If not currently local, relocation to the Birmingham, AL area is required for this position.

QUALIFICATIONS:

(Minimum Requirements)

  • FAA Airline Transport Pilot Certificate
  • G650 Aircraft type rating strongly preferred
  • Current First Class Medical
  • 3500 hours total time
  • 1500 hours PIC turbine
  • Strong CRM Skills 
  • Must be legal to work in the U.S. and ability to travel any international destination
  • Must be enrolled in an FAA/DOT Drug & Alcohol Program
  • Pass a TSA Criminal History check

 

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Final authority to operate the assigned aircraft.
  • Authority to delay, cancel or discontinue a flight when, in his / her opinion conditions are unsuitable for the initiation or continuation of the flight.
  • Authority to indicate a change in the planned flight during the flight when, in his / her opinion, such a change is appropriate for the safer operation of the aircraft.
  • Respecting aircraft performance (i.e., takeoff, en-route, landing, special operations, mountainous airports, etc.), Flight Crewmembers shall strictly adhere to Company operating policies and procedures so as to mitigate the potential of controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).
  • Responsible for flight planning taking into account:
    • The suitability of the weather,
    • Routing,
    • Airports, traffic conditions,
    • Airway facilities along the route to be flown,
    • Aircraft performance.
  • Responsibility to ensure that a flight initiated is completed as planned.
  • Institute all necessary changes as required by en route conditions such that the flight may continue under appropriate procedures and rules.
  • Responsible for conducting the flight in a safe and prudent manner in accordance with the, but not limited to, the following items:
    • Reviewing and reporting the maintenance status of each aircraft.
    • The conduct of a proper preflight inspection in accordance with the approved Airplane Flight Manual or accepted preflight checklist.
    • A complete check of weather and facilities along the route to be flown and airport to be used.
    • Ensure the flight is conducted in accordance with the policies and procedures of this Manual, the Operations Specifications and applicable Federal Aviation Regulations.
    • To determine that weight and balance procedures are followed, and that the gross weight and CG of the loaded aircraft are within limits for operation.
    • Ensuring the safety of passengers, aircraft and crew.
    • Accurate completion of all trip paperwork in accordance with current procedures.
  • The Pilot-in-Command must adhere to the Certificate Holders directions and instructions, and compliance with all operations specifications, regulations and policies set forth in this manual with regard to operational control under Part 135. Failure to do so by the PIC may result in legal action by the FAA.
  • The Pilot-in-Command must carry out his/her duties and responsibilities in a "professional manner" at all times. The Pilot-in-Command sets the example for all crewmembers with regards to proper conduct, appearance, alertness, discipline, adherence to policies and procedures and standards. The PIC is expected to have open communication, and to be receptive to input from all crewmembers, toward the shared goal of a safe flight operation.
  • Comply with all regulatory, operations specifications and policies and procedures in this manual.
  • The Pilot-in-Command will report any and all flight interruptions to the Company. These must be reported prior to the next departure.
  • Other duties as assigned by the Chief Pilot.