Charter pilots operate flights that are not part of normal airline schedules. Instead of selling tickets on fixed routes, charter companies provide customized flights for passengers, businesses, sports teams, musicians, and cargo customers.
This career is one of the most flexible and diverse paths in aviation. Charter pilots may fly small turboprops one day and large business jets the next. Every trip can be different.
What Does a Charter Pilot Do?
Charter pilots transport passengers or cargo on demand.
Flights may include:
- Business travel
- Sports team transportation
- Vacation trips
- Medical transportation
- Government contracts
- Cargo operations
Daily Responsibilities
- Flight planning
- Passenger briefings
- Aircraft inspections
- Weather analysis
- Coordinating schedules
- Fuel planning
- Flying domestic and international routes
- Customer service
Charter pilots often work under FAA Part 135 regulations.
Types of Aircraft Used
Charter companies use many different aircraft types.
Common Aircraft
- Cessna Caravan
- King Air 350
- Pilatus PC-12
- Citation CJ3
- Hawker 800XP
- Learjet 75
- Gulfstream G550
Some charter pilots fly helicopters as well.
Salary Expectations
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, commercial pilots earned a median annual salary of $122,670 in 2024. (bls.gov)
Charter pilot salaries vary widely based on aircraft type and experience.
Estimated Salary Ranges
- Entry-level charter pilot: $60,000–$90,000
- Mid-level captain: $100,000–$180,000
- Large-cabin international captain: $200,000+
Contract charter pilots may also earn daily rates.
Schedule and Lifestyle
Charter flying can be highly unpredictable.
Lifestyle Advantages
- Variety in destinations
- Diverse flying experiences
- Faster flight-hour accumulation
- Opportunities to fly advanced aircraft
- Flexible career growth
Lifestyle Challenges
- Last-minute schedule changes
- On-call responsibilities
- Long duty days
- Irregular sleep schedules
Many pilots use charter flying to build experience before transitioning into airlines or corporate aviation.
Education and Training
Required Certifications
- Private Pilot Certificate
- Instrument Rating
- Commercial Pilot Certificate
- Multi-Engine Rating
- ATP certificate for many jobs
Many charter pilots begin their careers as flight instructors.
Major Charter Employers
Companies in Charter Aviation
- XO
- Wheels Up
- VistaJet
- Jet Linx
- ATI Jet
Skills Needed
Charter pilots must be highly adaptable.
Important Skills
- Quick decision-making
- Customer service
- Flight planning
- Situational awareness
- Flexibility
- Communication
- Professionalism
Career Advancement
Charter aviation can lead to many other opportunities.
Possible Career Paths
- Corporate aviation
- Fractional ownership operations
- Major airlines
- Cargo airlines
- Chief Pilot roles
- Check Airman positions
FAQs
What is FAA Part 135?
Part 135 regulations govern many charter and on-demand flight operations.
Can charter pilots fly internationally?
Yes. Many charter companies operate globally.
Is charter flying a good way to build hours?
Yes. Charter pilots often gain valuable multi-engine and turbine experience.
Final Thoughts
Charter aviation is one of the most exciting and fast-paced areas of aviation. Pilots gain valuable experience, fly diverse missions, and develop strong decision-making skills.
For students who want variety and adventure, charter flying can be an outstanding aviation career.
Ready to soar in your aviation career?