Low Time Pilot Jobs: Your 2025 Career Guide to Getting Hired With Less Than 500 Hours
Becoming a commercial pilot is a dream come true for many. But once you’ve earned your CPL (Commercial Pilot License), a common question arises: “What now?” The biggest hurdle most new pilots face is finding low time pilot jobs—especially when you have less than 500 hours of total flight time.
The good news? Even with minimal flight hours, there are real opportunities out there. This guide will walk you through where to find them, how to qualify, and how to boost your hours efficiently.
What Are Low Time Pilot Jobs?
Low time pilot jobs are aviation positions that accept pilots with 250 to 500 flight hours, which is generally below the standard hiring requirements for most regional airlines or commercial operators.
These jobs are the crucial stepping stones to reach your 1500-hour mark (if you’re aiming for an ATP) or to become eligible for more advanced roles.
Why It’s Hard to Land a Job With Low Hours
Most commercial pilot jobs require high flight hours due to regulatory standards and insurance demands. For example:
- In the United States, the FAA requires 1500 hours for an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate.
- Canadian operators may consider pilots at 500 hours but often prefer those with 750+.
- Europe and Asia also have varying thresholds based on aircraft type and airspace.
This makes it challenging for new CPL holders to break in—especially when you only have around 250 hours post-training.
Top Hiring Trends for Low Hour Pilots in 2025
Despite the hurdles, the aviation industry in 2025 is facing a pilot shortage, and many operators are starting to look at low hour pilots to fill entry-level positions. Some trends include:
- Flight schools hiring instructors immediately after CPL training
- Remote operators and bush flying companies needing young, adventurous pilots
- Simulator instructors and desk-based aviation roles open to low hour CPL holders
- An increase in internship-style cadet programs that offer job placement
Top Job Opportunities for Low Time Pilots (<500 Hours)
Let’s look at what kind of jobs are realistically available when you’re still building your hours.
1. Flight Instructor (CFI)
Arguably the most common route. If you love teaching and want a steady way to log hours, becoming a Certified Flight Instructor is the way to go.
Pros:
- Steady hours
- Builds knowledge and communication skills
Cons:
- Additional certification required
- Can be repetitive
Keywords used: flight instructor jobs, build flight hours, low time pilot jobs in Canada/USA
2. Banner Towing
Yes, flying over beaches with advertising banners is a real job—and it pays.
Pros:
- Great for hour-building
- Often accepts CPL holders at 250+ hours
Cons:
- Physically demanding
- Seasonal work
3. Aerial Survey / Mapping
You’ll fly a small aircraft with equipment onboard to photograph or scan land.
Pros:
- Fixed routes, predictable flying
- Good way to log cross-country hours
Cons:
- Requires attention to detail
- Can involve long hours away from home
4. Skydive Pilot
Get ready for lots of takeoffs and landings—skydiving companies often hire low hour commercial pilots during busy seasons.
Pros:
- High volume of takeoffs and landings (great for logbook)
- Fun flying atmosphere
Cons:
- Small, demanding aircraft
- Physically exhausting
5. Charter and Cargo Flying (Part 135)
Some operators accept CPL holders with 500 hours or less if they meet additional training or insurance standards.
Pros:
- Professional environment
- Builds experience fast
Cons:
- Not always easy to find for under 500 hours
6. Bush Flying / Remote Ops
Operating in regions like Alaska, Northern Canada, Africa, or Papua New Guinea? You bet.
Pros:
- Adventure and challenge
- Solid multi-engine experience
Cons:
- Requires mental and physical toughness
- Often low pay
Missing topic covered: bush flying jobs, international low time pilot jobs
Countries Where Low Time Pilots Get Hired in 2025
Some countries are more open to hiring low hour pilots than others. If you’re open to relocating, here are the top spots:
Country Why It’s Great Canada Growing aviation sector, especially in the North USA Plenty of CFI roles and banner towing New Zealand Remote flying and tourism pilots South Africa Charter and bush flying opportunities Philippines Cadet programs and cargo ops ✅ Long-tail keyword used: low time pilot jobs Canada, international pilot jobs under 500 hours
How to Build Flight Time Quickly (and Cheaply)
To become eligible for more competitive roles, you’ll need to build your hours. Here’s how:
1. Become a Flight Instructor
A classic path. Teach others while building your own skills and hours.
2. Join a Flying Club or Co-ownership
Split aircraft time costs with other low hour pilots. Many time building programs exist in Canada and the U.S.
3. Lease an Aircraft for Time Building
More expensive but flexible. Look for dry leases that offer block hours.
4. Volunteer Flying
Look for charitable flying opportunities (like Angel Flight or animal rescues) that allow you to log hours while giving back.
🔥 Unique inclusion: crowd-sourced hour building, co-op flying, volunteer ops
Best Job Boards for Low Time Pilots
Here’s where to start your search:
Platform Why It’s Great FlightDeckFriend Dedicated low hour job section PilotsGlobal Filters for under 500-hour jobs JSFirm U.S. focus, real-time listings AvCanada Forums Canada-specific pilot networking PPRuNe (Forums) Industry insights and job leads globally
Tips to Get Hired With Less Than 500 Hours
You’re not just selling your hours—you’re selling yourself. Here’s how to stand out:
- Polish your resume: Tailor it for each job, focus on safety, professionalism, and flexibility.
- Build an online presence: Create a LinkedIn profile or digital resume with a video introduction.
- Network: Talk to pilots at your school, go to aviation expos, or join online forums like PPRuNe.
- Apply widely: Send cold emails to regional operators, floatplane companies, and survey outfits.
✅ Keywords used: how to get pilot job under 500 hours, aviation jobs for low hour pilots
Cadet Programs and Mentorships That Hire Below 500 Hours
While rare, some airlines offer direct entry cadet programs or mentorship tracks:
- Air Asia Cadet Program (Asia)
- IndiGo Cadet Program (India)
- Regional mentorships in Canada and the U.S.
Some even sponsor type ratings or guarantee interviews after time building.
🔥 Missing topic covered: cadet pilot programs for low time pilots
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a pilot job at 250 hours?
Yes, jobs like flight instructing, banner towing, and skydive piloting are realistic starting points.
Do airlines ever hire below 500 hours?
Not often, but some cadet or regional programs may sponsor your hours or offer training bonds.
Is being a CFI the only way to build hours?
Not at all. Charter, bush, skydive, and even survey flying can build your hours—often with more adventure.
Final Thoughts: You Only Need One Yes
Breaking into the aviation world as a low time pilot is tough—but absolutely doable. Everyone starts somewhere. The goal is to keep flying, keep learning, and never give up.
Be persistent. Apply widely. And know that your big break could be one email or one referral away.