Different Types of Pilots

Have you ever wondered how many different types of pilots there are? Whether you are just researching information to become a pilot or looking to advance your pilot skills, it’s helpful to know how many different types of pilot positions there are.

Each type of pilot has its unique responsibilities, training requirements, and roles in the aviation industry. Understanding what each role entails may help you decide which one is right for you. By researching different types of pilot jobs, you can identify your interests and passions. For instance, you might find that you're more interested in aerial photography than in commercial airline piloting. You can consider factors like salary, job security, work-life balance, and more to decide which type of pilot job is best for you.

Airline Pilots

Airline pilots operate commercial aircraft, transporting passengers and/or cargo on scheduled flights. They typically work for airlines and must follow strict schedules and regulations.

Commercial Pilots

Commercial pilots fly aircraft for various purposes including charter flights, aerial photography, agricultural operations, and more. They may work for companies or individuals and often hold commercial pilot licenses.

Military Pilots

Military pilots operate aircraft for the armed forces. They are trained for combat missions, reconnaissance, transportation, and other military operations. Military pilots undergo rigorous training and may specialize in specific types of aircraft such as fighter jets, helicopters, or transport planes.

Private Pilots

Private pilots fly for personal or recreational purposes. They may own or rent aircraft and often fly for leisure, travel, or business purposes. Private pilots have less stringent training and regulatory requirements compared to commercial or military pilots.

Helicopter Pilots

Helicopter pilots specialize in flying rotary-wing aircraft. They may work in various sectors including emergency medical services (EMS), law enforcement, search and rescue, tourism, and offshore transportation.

Flight Instructors

Flight instructors are experienced pilots who teach aspiring pilots how to fly. They provide ground and flight training, prepare students for pilot certification exams, and help pilots improve their skills.

Experimental Test Pilots

Test pilots evaluate the performance and safety of new or modified aircraft. They conduct test flights to assess aircraft handling characteristics, systems operation, and aerodynamic performance. Test pilots often work for aircraft manufacturers, government agencies, or research institutions.

Corporate Pilots

Corporate pilots fly aircraft owned or chartered by corporations or wealthy individuals. They transport company executives, conduct business travel, and may also manage aircraft operations and maintenance.

Cargo Pilots

Cargo pilots transport freight and goods by air. They fly cargo aircraft for airlines, express delivery companies, and cargo operators. Cargo pilots may operate domestically or internationally, transporting a wide range of commodities.

Bush Pilots

A bush pilot is a person who can fly light to medium-sized aircraft safely in and out of places that would normally be regarded by most other pilots as “marginal,” “too dangerous,” or "impossible.” Generally, these are areas that are inaccessible to most aircraft and other means of transportation.

Agricultural Pilots

Agricultural pilots, also known as crop dusters, apply fertilizers, pesticides, and other chemicals to crops from the air. They help manage pests, diseases, and weeds in agricultural fields, orchards, and vineyards.

Training

These are some of the main types of pilots, but there are also niche specialties and variations within these categories based on specific aircraft types, missions, and industries. Training is a significant part of becoming a certain type of pilot. Depending on which area you move into, will determine the types of certifications and number of flight hours required to become certified. For example, much of this is determined by the type of aircraft the pilot will fly. Such as multi-engine or single-engine.

If you’re interested in becoming a pilot but are unsure about what industry would be best for you, we recommend connecting with pilots in different roles to learn more from their experiences. Attend pilot career events, start hanging around airports and chatting with the pilots, or schedule a meeting with our team.

Researching different types of pilot jobs will help you make more informed decisions and prepare you for a successful aviation career.

Contact Us today to learn more about a career as a pilot.