Transportation · Pilot and navigate the flight of fixed-wing aircraft, usually on scheduled air carrier routes, for the transport of passengers and cargo
This profile is intended as career exploration guidance based on federal labor data. Actual job requirements, salaries, and opportunities vary by employer and location.
Entry Salary
$43–53k
First 1–2 years
Peak Salary
$81–95k
10+ years experience
Job Outlook
+3.9% · As fast as average
Projected growth of 3.9% from 2024 to 2034; about 12 openings projected per year.
Time to Start
4–6 years
College degree typical
Salary data sourced from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) May 2024. Actual compensation varies by location, experience, employer, and specialization.
Entry-Level Engineers
Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers
Experienced Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers
Senior Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers
Director of Transportation
You prioritize Support
This career is strongly aligned with Support — a core work value that shapes how people approach their career decisions.
You're strong in Operation and Control
Operation and Control is a top skill for this career, and it plays to what students like you naturally do best.
Good fit for your timeline
This career typically requires a bachelor's degree, which matches common student preparation goals.
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106 schools offer programs in this career field.
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