Commercial Pilots
O*NET 53-2012.00 · SOC 53-2012
Commercial Pilot is a solid career choice. Median pay is $123k a year with +5.2% projected growth through 2035 (about as fast as average) and about 5,200 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Pilot charter or cargo aircraft on scheduled or on-demand routes.
- →File flight plans with aviation authorities before departure.
- →Perform pre-flight inspections of aircraft mechanical systems.
- →Monitor weather conditions and adjust routes during flight.
- →Communicate with passengers or clients about flight status.
Education & How to Get In
Most Commercial Pilot positions require an associate degree or vocational training. Many community colleges and technical schools offer relevant programs that can be completed in 1–2 years, often with hands-on clinical or lab experience built in.
Get Started Learning
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Work Environment
Structured, offices, data centers, or remote
Independent, focused deep work with periodic team check-ins
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Commercial Pilot involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Commercial Pilot?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Commercial Pilot Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Commercial Pilots is projected to grow 5.2% from 2025 to 2035, about as fast as average for all occupations. The BLS flags this as a Bright Outlook occupation.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·39% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target
- ·28% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Commercial Pilot make?
The median Commercial Pilot earns $123k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Commercial Pilot jobs?
Our model puts Commercial Pilot at 42 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 39% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target; 28% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress.
Is Commercial Pilot a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 5.2% between 2025 and 2035, which is about as fast as average. That works out to roughly 5,200 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Commercial Pilot?
Most Commercial Pilot roles expect an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational certificate rather than a four-year degree.
How long does it take to become a Commercial Pilot?
Typically one to two years, typically an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational program. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 3 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Commercial Pilot career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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