Private Pilot License Jobs

Exciting Opportunities for Private Pilot License Holders in 2025

Are you a certified private pilot looking to turn your passion into a rewarding career? You’re in the right place. There are more private pilot license jobs available than ever before, and many industries are actively hiring skilled aviators to fill exciting roles. Whether you’re just beginning your flying journey or looking to gain more flight hours, this guide breaks down what to expect, where to apply, and how to land your next aviation job.

What Is a Private Pilot License (PPL)?

A Private Pilot License (PPL) is a certification that allows you to fly small aircraft for personal use. While it doesn’t qualify you to fly commercially, it opens the door to many aviation-related opportunities. With the right connections, experience, and some additional training, PPL holders can find jobs that offer flight time, competitive pay, and a step toward an advanced flying career.

Top Private Pilot License Jobs in 2025

Let’s look at some of the best jobs you can get with a private pilot license:

1. Aerial Tour Pilot

Tour companies in scenic regions—like the Rockies, the Maritimes, or coastal areas—often hire private pilots to fly short trips for tourists. These flights typically operate in small aircraft and don’t require a commercial license if you fly under certain business arrangements.

Why it’s great: You’ll build hours, talk to people, and fly over beautiful locations every day.

2. Flight Instructor (with extra certification)

Once you get your Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) rating, you can begin teaching others. Many private pilots choose this path to gain hours and get paid to fly.

Bonus: You can start building toward your commercial license while earning income.

3. Pipeline or Powerline Patrol Pilot

Utility companies hire private pilots to inspect pipelines, powerlines, and other infrastructure from the air. These roles are ideal for low-time pilots, especially in rural or remote areas.

Perks: Steady hours, routine flights, and great solo flying experience.

4. Agricultural Survey and Crop Monitoring

Some jobs require low-level flying to monitor crops or gather environmental data. Private pilots with experience in visual navigation and map reading are especially valuable.

Good to know: Many of these roles are seasonal, making them perfect for students or part-time flyers.

5. Corporate or Personal Pilot Assistant

Although most corporate pilot jobs require a commercial license, there are private pilot license jobs assisting busy executives, private aircraft owners, or local businesses. Tasks might include aircraft prep, basic flying, or managing flight records.

Upside: Great networking opportunity to enter the corporate aviation world.

Skills and Qualifications Needed

To qualify for most private pilot license jobs, you’ll need the following:

• A valid and current Private Pilot License (PPL)

• A minimum number of logged flying hours (usually 100+ hours helps)

• Strong communication and navigation skills

• Comfort with solo and VFR (Visual Flight Rules) flying

• FAA/Transport Canada medical certificate (Class 3 or higher)

• Willingness to relocate or travel for work

Additional training or endorsements—like night flying, instrument rating, or float plane rating—can increase your chances of getting hired and landing better roles.

Where to Find Private Pilot License Jobs

Finding the right aviation job takes some effort, but it’s absolutely possible. Here are some places to start:

• Aviation job boards like AvCanada, PilotCareerCentre, and JSfirm

• Local airports and flight schools often post part-time or seasonal openings

• Government and environmental agencies (e.g., forestry departments or wildlife surveys)

• Tourism operators in areas with aerial sightseeing

• Facebook and LinkedIn aviation groups where pilots share job leads

If you’re passionate, proactive, and willing to start small, you’ll build experience that leads to better flying opportunities in the future.

Tips to Land a Job With a Private Pilot License

1. Build Hours Wisely: Fly often, keep detailed logs, and consider volunteering for charitable flights or nonprofits.

2. Network: Attend aviation events, talk to instructors, and connect with pilots online.

3. Keep Learning: Stay up to date with airspace changes, weather reading, and aircraft systems.

4. Stay Flexible: Be open to contract work, part-time jobs, or relocation.

5. Show Reliability: Employers want safe, trustworthy pilots who are committed and professional.