Register

How to Become a Government Pilot

Michigan DNR pilot Bill Green and biologist Roger Mech prepare for a forest monitoring flight. David Kenyon/Michigan DNR
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Government flying offers extensive and diverse career opportunities across military, federal, state, and municipal levels, often facing pilot shortages and operating the world's largest fleet.
  • Roles are highly varied, encompassing everything from military operations and federal research/environmental monitoring to state transportation and municipal law enforcement.
  • Specific pilot requirements differ significantly by agency and mission, necessitating thorough research by applicants to meet the unique qualifications for each position.
See a mistake? Contact us.

No realm of piloting provides more career opportunities than government, or public service, flying. The Armed Forces, federal agencies, state aeronautics divisions and aviation departments, and county and municipal authorities employ pilots to operate what is by all accounts the world’s largest fleet of fixed- and rotor-wing aircraft and remotely piloted aerial vehicles.

Ready to Sell Your Aircraft?

List your airplane on AircraftForSale.com and reach qualified buyers.

List Your Aircraft
AircraftForSale Logo | FLYING Logo
Pilot in aircraft
Sign-up for newsletters & special offers!

Get the latest stories & special offers delivered directly to your inbox.

SUBSCRIBE