The fourth episode of Aviation Start, FLYING’s career-focused video podcast hosted by Jamail Larkins, takes on one of the most talked-about and least understood ways to earn a living in the cockpit: contract corporate flying.
“People believe you can go and make 50, 60, $70,000 a month,” said guest Jay Kadir, a 26-year-old contract pilot who flies the Gulfstream G-IV. “It’s true. I’ve seen it. I know people who’ve done it. It’s not as easy or simple as just that. It takes a long time.”
‘Aviation Start’ Episode 4 Breaks Down How Contract Pilots Build $50,000 Months
Gulfstream pilot Jay Kadir explains day rates, networking, and why the airlines aren't the only path to a flying career.
![FLYING ‘Aviation Start’ podcast host Jamail Larkins (left) speaks with contract pilot Jay Kadir during the latest episode. [Credit: FLYING]](https://www.flyingmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Screenshot-2026-10-02-at-9.16.29-AM.jpg)
Key Takeaways:
- Contract corporate flying offers pilots significant earning potential, with day rates ranging from $500 to $4,500 depending on the aircraft, allowing for monthly incomes of $50,000-$70,000 on consistent high-value flights.
- Success in this self-employed field requires pilots to self-fund expensive training, including type ratings, and to actively build a strong professional network through in-person events and strategic social media outreach.
- A primary advantage of contract corporate flying is the flexibility and control it provides over one's schedule, allowing pilots to choose assignments and prioritize personal commitments.
- The industry anticipates a high demand, needing approximately 33,000 more corporate pilots in the next decade, making it a growing and viable career alternative to traditional airline roles.
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