Commercial Pilots
Pilot and navigate the flight of fixed-wing aircraft on nonscheduled air carrier routes, or helicopters. Requires Commercial Pilot certificate. Includes charter pilots with similar certification, and air ambulance and air tour pilots. Excludes regional, national, and international airline pilots.
Common Job Titles
- Captain
- Commercial Pilot
- Helicopter Pilot
- Pilot
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- Hands-onOperate fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters on nonscheduled routes using autopilot systems, flight management systems, and navigation instruments under varying weather conditions.Advanced
- KnowledgeEvaluate aircraft systems, flight instruments, and equipment status during pre-flight inspections and in-flight operations to ensure compliance with safety standards.Advanced
- KnowledgeAssess in-flight emergencies and system malfunctions independently under time pressure, applying critical thinking and aviation regulations.Advanced
- KnowledgeDevelop flight plans and route strategies using aeronautical charts, GPS devices, and weather data while considering fuel efficiency and regulatory requirements.Advanced
- MindsetModel professional aviation standards and safety culture when training crew members and interacting with passengers in high-stress situations.Advanced
- KnowledgeAnalyze flight data, weather conditions, and navigation information using electronic flight instrument systems and GPS devices to make real-time route adjustments.Proficient
- Hands-onCoordinate flight control inputs with aircraft systems during takeoff, landing, and emergency maneuvers to maintain aircraft stability and passenger safety.Proficient
- MindsetIntegrate customer service principles with flight safety protocols when interacting with passengers on charter, air ambulance, and air tour flights.Proficient
- Hands-onExecute mechanical equipment inspections and maintenance procedures using diagnostic tools and following manufacturer specifications to ensure airworthiness.Proficient
- KnowledgeInterpret air traffic control communications and navigational aids through VHF/UHF radio systems, applying knowledge of aviation terminology and regulations.Proficient
- KnowledgeApply knowledge of physics, mechanical systems, and geography to troubleshoot aircraft performance issues and optimize flight operations across diverse terrain.Proficient
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Commercial Pilots (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
51,830
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $59,330. 25th percentile: U.S. $81,660. 50th percentile: U.S. $122,670. 75th percentile: U.S. $175,050. 90th percentile: U.S. $239,200. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $59,330 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $239,200+ |
| Workers on average earn | $142,960 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Customer and Personal Service4.2/5
- English Language4.0/5
- Transportation4.0/5
- Geography3.6/5
- Public Safety and Security3.6/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Adobe Creative Cloud software
- Microsoft Office software
Technology Skills
- AeroPlanner
- Aeronautical charts
- AirSmith FlightPrompt
- Airdata
- Airline Pilots Daily Aviation Log PPC
- ArduPilot Mission Planner
- Calibration software
- CloudCompare
Tools & Equipment
- Air conditioning systems
- Air data computers
- Air pressurization systems
- Airborne collision avoidance systems ACAS
- Airfield lighting equipment
- Anemometers
- Anti-skid systems
- Autobrakes