Obtaining a commercial pilot license (CPL) from a reputable flight school opens up a range of career paths to choose from. Some want to work for an airline, which may require additional qualifications beyond the CPL, while others may choose to work for a corporation, charter company, haul cargo, dust crops or partake in other types of specialized flying.
Regardless of which path you choose, there are many good reasons to pursue a career as a commercial pilot. Let’s take a look at some of the biggest benefits to undergoing the training and obtaining a CPL.
Choose From A Number Of Fun Pilot Jobs
Whether you want to work for law enforcement, emergency rescue, business corporations or the airlines, there are a variety of jobs available to commercial pilot license holders. Check out some of the options below, for just a small sample of fun commercial pilot jobs:
- Airline pilot for international and regional carriers: Fly for companies like Delta, American or Frontier, carrying passengers safely from point A to B.
- Cargo pilot: Work for companies like FedEx, U.S. Postal Service or a private company transporting goods.
- Corporate-charter pilot: Fly business executives, celebrities and other VIPs to and from their destinations.
- Emergency/rescue services: Provide emergency medical services, transport biologically sensitive materials or rescue stranded individuals.
- Agricultural pilot: Fly aircraft that are used to apply pesticides, herbicides and other chemicals to crops.
Plenty Of Opportunities & Job Security
The career of a pilot is one of the fastest growing in the country, particularly in the airline industry. This means plenty of opportunities to shop around for a job at the right salary, as well as increased job security through at least 2030, when the majority of baby boomers are required to be retired. Because of the lingering pilot shortage and a return to normalcy after the pandemic, among other reasons, the industry needs over 14,000 pilots per year in order to keep up with travel demands.
Choose A High-Paying Career Path
Commercial pilots typically earn good salaries, especially as they gain experience and advance in their careers. The salary for commercial pilots can vary depending on factors such as the type of aircraft they fly, their level of experience, and the location and type of company they work for. However, you can expect to make a good salary, even starting out as a rookie pilot.
Commercial pilots typically earn good salaries, especially as they gain experience and advance in their careers. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for airline and commercial pilots was $134,630. In fact, many job titles will net you a hefty salary as a pilot within the commercial aviation industry. For example, take a look at some of the average salaries for commercial pilots below:
- Corporate jet pilots make $103,500
- Air tour pilots make $103,000
- Emergency rescue pilots make $90,000
- Pipeline patrol pilot make $83,500
- Agriculture pilots make $71,500
- Aerial survey pilots make $56,500
The Opportunity To Travel
As a commercial pilot, you’ll have the opportunity to visit a wide range of destinations, both domestically and internationally, and is often one of the biggest draws to the job. This can be a great way to see new cities, countries and even continents, while experiencing different cultures. This is often why people become pilots in the first place, because it’s truly the best way to travel the world.
Another great perk is that you’ll be able to see your new favorite destinations from a different perspective. In certain flying careers, you might be able to soar over landmarks or natural wonders that you have always wanted to see up close. Imagine viewing the immense Grand Canyon from the sky while enjoying coffee on your morning route, or flying into JFK Airport and tipping your cap toward the Statue Of Liberty upon your approach from the south.
Rewarding, Challenging & Prestigious Job
Piloting a commercial aircraft is a challenging job, but the feeling of accomplishment that comes with it can be very rewarding. At this point in the licensing process, you’ve become an accomplished aviator with potentially thousands of hours of training time under your belt. Being at the top of your field means more respect and admiration from your bosses, peers and the general public.
Flexibility
Commercial pilots often have a flexible schedule, with many working on a part-time or contract basis. This can provide a good balance between work and personal life, as pilots may have extended periods of time off between flights or trips. Commercial airline pilots typically receive anywhere between nine and 15 days off every month.
In addition to the flexibility in terms of scheduling, being a commercial pilot can also provide flexibility in terms of location. Pilots may have the opportunity to work for companies that operate flights to a wide range of destinations, which can provide the opportunity to live in different places or travel extensively.
Best Of Luck Becoming A Commercial Pilot!
Being a commercial pilot is a rewarding and exciting career that offers a wide range of benefits. From the high salary and opportunity to travel, to the job security and respect that pilots receive, there are many good reasons to consider a career as a commercial pilot. In addition, the flexibility and job opportunities available throughout the next decade make it an attractive career choice for many aspiring aviators. If you are considering becoming a commercial pilot, these benefits may be worth considering as you start applying for training programs.
Do you want to obtain a Commercial Pilot License?
Take a look at the many professional pilot programs offered by Inflight Pilot Training. We’ll help you achieve your dreams of becoming a certified, paid pilot. We’ve let countless people take the control wheel and soar to their favorite destinations, through accelerated pilot courses, commercial certifications, instrument ratings and more. With one of the best pass rates in Minnesota, you don’t have to worry about seeing success with our professional pilot training programs.
Let our diverse team of CFIs elevate your learning experience as you take to the skies. If you’re interested in learning more about Inflight programs, contact us today or call (952) 698-3000.