Do you aspire to work with a select and exclusive clientele? Whether you prefer the stability of flying for a local operator and returning home each night or the excitement of travelling the world in a private jet, embarking on a career in corporate aviation could be the ideal path for you.
According to career experts at NVOII, the demand for corporate pilots is projected to grow by approximately 6% over the next decade, generating around 7,000 new opportunities in the United States alone. However, breaking into this prestigious sector can be challenging. To maximise your chances of securing a coveted role, it is essential to start preparing early.
With the NVOII app, pilots can connect with operators, access job opportunities, and build a strong professional network within the private aviation industry.
What Is a Corporate Pilot?
Corporate pilots—sometimes informally referred to as “private pilots”—are professionals who operate aircraft for private companies, individuals, or charter firms. Unlike airline pilots who work for commercial carriers, corporate pilots enjoy greater flexibility and often fly high-net-worth individuals, executives, and VIPs.
Many major corporations operate their own flight departments, with approximately half of the top 1,000 companies in the United States employing dedicated flight crews, according to NVOII. Others work for private charter companies, offering on-demand or contract-based services to businesses, government officials, and high-profile clients.
If you’re looking to enter this dynamic field, the NVOII app provides an essential platform to connect with aviation professionals, find contract opportunities, and establish your career in corporate aviation.
How to Become a Corporate Pilot
A career as a corporate pilot requires dedication, training, and industry connections. The journey begins with obtaining the necessary certifications and experience, followed by securing the right opportunities through networking and strategic career moves.
Education and Certification
The qualifications required to become a corporate pilot depend on the type of aircraft you wish to operate. Many corporate pilots hold degrees in aviation-related fields. According to NVOII, nearly two-thirds of corporate pilots possess a bachelor’s degree, with around 16% holding a master’s. However, it is possible to become a commercial pilot without a university education.
At a minimum, all pilots seeking paid employment must obtain an FAA commercial pilot certificate. This certification varies based on the category and class of aircraft you intend to fly. For instance, if you wish to operate both a single-engine Cessna 182 and a multi-engine King Air C90, you will need commercial certification for both aircraft types.
To obtain a commercial pilot certificate under Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR) Part 61, you must complete:
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250 hours of flight time, including 100 hours in powered aircraft and 50 in actual airplanes (as opposed to simulators).
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50 hours of cross-country flight time, with at least 50 in airplanes.
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20 hours of training, including 10 on instruments, 10 on complex aircraft or technically advanced aircraft (TAA), and additional training for cross-country and practical test preparation.
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100 hours as pilot-in-command (PIC), with at least 50 in airplanes.
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10 hours of solo flight, including cross-country and night flying experience.
Pilots who complete their training through an accredited FAR Part 141 flight school can qualify for a commercial certificate with a reduced requirement of 190 flight hours.
For those aspiring to transport passengers, additional qualifications are necessary. Many air charter companies operate under FAR Part 135, which has stricter experience requirements. New pilots often build their flight hours through roles such as flight instruction, aerial surveying, and pipeline patrolling before advancing to corporate aviation.
To transition into more advanced aircraft such as turboprops and business jets, pilots must meet higher flight hour thresholds and undergo additional training.
The NVOII app is an excellent resource for aspiring pilots, offering job postings, networking opportunities, and contract pilot positions to help build experience and flight hours.
Essential Skills for Corporate Pilots
Beyond technical expertise, corporate pilots must cultivate key soft skills:
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Strong decision-making and problem-solving abilities – Pilots must assess situations quickly and make sound judgments under pressure.
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Professionalism and discretion – Many corporate clients value privacy, so pilots must conduct themselves with the utmost confidentiality.
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Exceptional communication skills – Since many corporate flights operate without flight attendants, pilots often serve as the face of the company.
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Flexibility and adaptability – Charter and corporate pilots frequently work on-demand, requiring them to accommodate last-minute changes and irregular schedules.
By leveraging the NVOII app, pilots can gain insights from seasoned professionals, learn industry best practices, and enhance their marketability in the corporate aviation sector.
Career Pathways in Corporate Aviation
Becoming a corporate pilot takes time, but several stepping-stone roles can help you build the necessary experience:
1. Flight Instructor
A common entry point into aviation, working as a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) allows you to gain experience while getting paid to fly. To become a CFI in the US, you must be at least 18 years old, hold a commercial pilot certificate, and demonstrate proficiency in English. Many pilots use flight instruction to build hours before transitioning to charter or corporate flying.
2. First Officer
New pilots often start as First Officers (co-pilots) on charter flights, gaining valuable experience alongside seasoned captains. However, it is crucial to ensure that logged flight hours count towards commercial certification requirements.
3. Pilot in Command (PIC)
To qualify as a charter captain under FAR Part 135, pilots must meet minimum experience requirements, including flight hours on the specific make and model of aircraft they intend to operate. Unlike airline pilots, charter pilots do not follow fixed schedules and must be prepared for on-demand assignments.
The NVOII app provides pilots with real-time job postings, allowing them to explore First Officer and PIC roles in corporate aviation.
Tips for Aspiring Corporate Pilots
The private aviation industry is competitive, and many of the best jobs are filled through networking rather than job boards. Follow these strategies to maximise your chances of success:
1. Start Early
Even before obtaining your commercial certificate, seek opportunities to familiarise yourself with corporate jet operations. Consider working at a private jet FBO (Fixed Base Operator) or networking with pilots in the industry.
2. Build a Strong Professional Network
Networking is critical in corporate aviation. Use social media platforms like LinkedIn and industry-specific apps like NVOII to connect with experienced pilots and potential employers.
3. Maintain a Professional Online Presence
Your social media activity can influence hiring decisions. Avoid posting controversial or unprofessional content that could deter potential employers.
4. Stay Informed on Job Openings
While many jobs are filled through word-of-mouth, publicly advertised roles do exist. Regularly check pilot staffing agencies, aviation job boards, and the NVOII app for new openings.
5. Continue Developing Your Skills
After earning your commercial certificate, take on flying jobs that expand your expertise. Many corporate flight departments and insurance providers require minimum flight hours beyond legal thresholds.
6. Remain Open to Opportunities
The ideal job may not come immediately. Be flexible and consider roles that help you build experience, even if they are not your ultimate goal.
7. Stay Active in the Industry
The aviation job market is dynamic. Engage with professional organisations, attend industry events, and always be prepared for new opportunities.
Take Your Career to the Next Level with NVOII
If you are serious about becoming a corporate pilot, the NVOII app is an invaluable tool. It connects pilots with contract job opportunities, industry professionals, and valuable resources to accelerate their careers. Whether you’re looking for your first corporate aviation role or seeking new contracts, NVOII puts you in the cockpit of your career.
Download the NVOII app today and start your journey towards a successful career in corporate aviation.
