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Professional Pilot Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Chief Pilot / Director of Operations Position Summary Tom Wood Aviation is seeking a skilled and professional Charter Pilot to join our growing Part 91/135 flight operations team. The Charter Pilot ...

Chief Pilot / Director of Operations Position Summary Tom Wood Aviation is seeking a skilled and professional Charter Pilot to join our growing Part 91/135 flight operations team. The Charter Pilot ...

Chief Pilot

Sellersburg, IN · On-site

$150K - $175K/yr

... professional development of all flight crew members. The Chief Pilot must meet the qualifications of 14 CFR 119.71(b) and be eligible to exercise Operational Control under 135.77. Requirements Core ...

Helicopter Pilot

Elkhart, IN · On-site

$82K/yr

Maintains positive interpersonal relationships with colleagues, EMS representatives, hospitals and the public and strives to maintain a friendly and professional working environment * Pilots must ...

VFR Helicopter Pilot

Marion, IN · On-site

$50K/yr

This is a mission driven aviation role designed for professionals who value purpose, operational ... Pilots in this role conduct critical care transport missions, providing rapid response to patients ...

Description: Elite Pilots Wanted for a Fast-Growing Charter Operation PrivateFlite Aviation is ... We are looking for disciplined professionals who operate at a higher standard. Our mission is clear:

VFR Helicopter Pilot

West Lafayette, IN · On-site

$86K - $107K/yr

STS Technical Services is hiring Helicopter Pilots in West Lafayette, Indiana. Position Summary STS ... Represent the organization professionally in all interactions, including community outreach ...

River Pilot American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Nav Mate Pilots to lead our U.S. - flag fleet ... Our Nav Mates are meticulous professionals, in service to our guests and as examples to our crews.

River Pilot American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Nav Mate Pilots to lead our U.S. - flag fleet ... Our Nav Mates are meticulous professionals, in service to our guests and as examples to our crews.

Maintains positive interpersonal relationships with colleagues, EMS representatives, hospitals and the public and strives to maintain a friendly and professional working environment * Pilots must ...

Maintains positive interpersonal relationships with colleagues, EMS representatives, hospitals and the public and strives to maintain a friendly and professional working environment * Pilots must ...

Maintains positive interpersonal relationships with colleagues, EMS representatives, hospitals and the public and strives to maintain a friendly and professional working environment * Pilots must ...

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Professional Pilot information

See Indiana salary details

$47.1K

$124.6K

$191.3K

How much do professional pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for professional pilot in Indiana is $124,575.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,200.00 and $147,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much money do professional pilots make?

Professional pilots' salaries vary based on experience, aircraft type, and employer. Entry-level commercial pilots typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, while experienced airline captains can make over $200,000 per year. Factors such as flight hours, certifications, and union agreements influence earnings.

How long does it take to make $200,000 as a pilot?

Professional pilots typically reach a $200,000 annual salary after several years of experience, often around 5 to 10 years, depending on the airline, aircraft type, and flight hours accumulated. Early career pilots may earn significantly less, with salaries increasing as they gain seniority, additional certifications, and flying hours. Factors such as union agreements and regional differences can also influence earning timelines.

What are some common challenges professional pilots face during multi-crew operations, and how can they be addressed?

Professional pilots working in multi-crew environments often encounter challenges related to communication, coordination, and workload management. Effective teamwork and clear communication are essential to maintaining safety and efficiency, especially during high-pressure situations like adverse weather or emergencies. Regular training, adherence to standard operating procedures, and fostering an open cockpit culture help pilots address these challenges and ensure smooth collaboration with co-pilots and cabin crew. Emphasizing Crew Resource Management (CRM) is key to building trust and minimizing errors during flights.

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

To thrive as a Professional Pilot, you need strong aeronautical knowledge, situational awareness, and a valid commercial pilot license (CPL) or airline transport pilot license (ATPL). Proficiency in using flight management systems, navigation instruments, and adhering to aviation regulations is essential, with certifications often required by aviation authorities. Exceptional decision-making, communication, and teamwork skills help pilots operate safely and efficiently in high-pressure environments. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure passenger safety, regulatory compliance, and effective flight operations.

What is the difference between Professional Pilot vs Commercial Pilot?

AspectProfessional PilotCommercial Pilot
Required CertificationsCommercial Pilot Certificate, additional ratings depending on aircraftCommercial Pilot Certificate, specific ratings for aircraft types
Work EnvironmentVaries widely: airlines, cargo, charter, corporateAirlines, charter services, aerial work
Employer & Industry UsageUsed broadly across aviation sectorsPrimarily in commercial aviation operations

Both Professional Pilots and Commercial Pilots require similar certifications, but Professional Pilot is a broader term encompassing various roles in the aviation industry, while Commercial Pilot specifically refers to pilots authorized to be paid for flying. The main difference lies in scope and job responsibilities within the commercial aviation sector.

What can you do with a professional pilot degree?

A professional pilot degree prepares individuals to become licensed pilots, enabling them to operate aircraft for commercial or private purposes. Graduates can pursue careers as airline pilots, corporate pilots, flight instructors, or cargo pilots, often requiring additional certifications such as an Airline Transport Pilot license. The degree provides foundational knowledge of aeronautics, navigation, and safety procedures essential for the aviation industry.

What are professional pilots?

Professional pilots are licensed individuals who operate aircraft as their primary occupation. They may work for commercial airlines, charter companies, cargo carriers, or private employers, transporting passengers or goods. Professional pilots are responsible for safely navigating flights, conducting pre-flight checks, communicating with air traffic control, and ensuring compliance with aviation regulations. Their training includes extensive flight hours, simulator practice, and certification by aviation authorities. The role demands strong technical skills, situational awareness, and adherence to safety procedures.

What pilots make $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced airline captains, especially those flying long-haul international routes for major carriers, can earn annual salaries exceeding $500,000, including base pay, bonuses, and overtime. Corporate pilots for private or executive jets with extensive flight hours and seniority may also reach this level, often requiring advanced certifications and significant flight hours. Such high earnings are typically associated with seniority, aircraft size, and the employer's scale.
What are the most commonly searched types of Pilot jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Pilot jobs in Indiana are:
Infographic showing various Professional Pilot job openings in Indiana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 2% Summer. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,575 per year, or $59.9 per hour.

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Charter Pilot

Location: Tom Wood Aviation – Indianapolis, IN Reports To: Chief Pilot / Director of Operations

Position Summary

Tom Wood Aviation is seeking a skilled and professional Charter Pilot to join our growing Part 91/135 flight operations team. The Charter Pilot will be responsible for the safe, efficient, and customer-focused operation of company and client aircraft. This position requires a commitment to safety, superior airmanship, exceptional customer service, and strict adherence to FAA and company regulations.

Key Responsibilities

· Conduct Part 135 and Part 91 flights in accordance with FAA regulations and Tom Wood Aviation policies.

· Perform thorough pre-flight planning, inspections, and post-flight procedures.

· Ensure the highest standards of safety, professionalism, and passenger comfort throughout all phases of flight.

· Maintain required flight records, logs, and documentation accurately and promptly.

· Coordinate with dispatch, maintenance, and customer service teams to ensure smooth and efficient flight operations.

· Represent Tom Wood Aviation with professionalism and courtesy to clients, vendors, and regulatory agencies.

· Participate in ongoing training, proficiency checks, and safety programs as required by the company and FAA.

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

· FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate with Airplane Multi-Engine Land and Instrument Rating (ATP preferred).

· Current and valid FAA First-Class Medical Certificate.

· Minimum total flight time: 2,00 hours.

· Multi-engine PIC experience (500 hours preferred).

· Strong knowledge of FAA Part 135 regulations and operational standards.

· Excellent communication, decision-making, and customer service skills.

· Ability to work a flexible schedule, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

· Must pass a pre-employment background check and drug screening.

Preferred Qualifications:

· Experience in aircraft operated by Tom Wood Aviation (e.g., Cessna 414, Citation 510/525, King Air 90/200).

· Prior Part 135 experience.

· Experience operating in a variety of weather and airspace environments.

Why Work Here?

At Tom Wood Group, you’re more than an employee—you’re a part of a family-owned company that has been serving communities for over 50 years. We believe in investing in our people through training, career development, and advancement opportunities. Our team thrives on collaboration, integrity, and a sincere desire to help others, and we’re passionate about creating an environment where you can grow both personally and professionally.

 

What Makes Us Different?

  • A company built on core values: Humbly Confident, Passionately Driven, Sincere Desire to Help Others, and Uncompromising Integrity
  • Opportunities to advance across multiple industries and locations
  • A culture that values your contributions and celebrates success
  • Comprehensive benefits designed to support you and your family

What We Offer

  • Paid Time Off & Vacation
  • Paid Holidays
  • Medical, Dental & Vision Coverage
  • 401(k) with Company Match
  • Life & Disability Insurance
  • Professional Training & Career Development
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Service Awards
  • Opportunities for Advancement

Our Core Values

Humbly Confident | Passionately Driven | Sincere Desire to Help Others | Uncompromising Integrity

Employment Requirements:

All offers are contingent upon passing a background check, motor vehicle record review, social security verification, and drug screening. Tom Wood Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer.