How to Become a Corporate Pilot

The path requires time and hard work, but there are exciting and rewarding career opportunities in the field.

Andrew Chen

Tuesday, July 23, 2024 at 10:14 AM ET

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Edited By: tccjeremy

Many corporate pilots work for charter companies that operate private aircraft. [Credit: Adobe Stock]

Key Takeaways:

Corporate piloting offers an alternative aviation career path to airline roles, involving flying private aircraft for non-aviation companies, wealthy individuals, or charter clients across diverse destinations.
The journey to becoming a corporate pilot typically starts with obtaining private and commercial pilot certificates, followed by accumulating substantial flight hours, often 1,500 for entry-level first officer positions, and potentially an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate.
Key requirements include significant flight experience, specific FAA medical and radio operator licenses, and a valid passport, with competitive salaries ranging from $70,000 for new first officers to over $300,000 for senior captains.

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Beyond the hustle and bustle of a busy airport terminal, there is a whole other world of passenger aviation in our skies. Corporate aircraft and their pilots serve travelers all around the globe each and every day.

Although it is easy to assume that being a pilot means working for an airline, corporate aviation also offers exciting careers for aviators. Corporate pilots have unique opportunities when it comes to their lifestyle, workplace, and travel destinations. Here is what you need to know about becoming a corporate pilot.