Pilot Jobs in Nevada
By Renzo, CPL · Updated March 2026
Everything you need to know about aviation careers in Nevada (NV). From major airlines and airports to salary expectations and top employers, this guide covers the complete landscape of pilot jobs in Nevada.
4
Major Airports
4
Airlines Operating
~30
Flight Schools
$90,000
Starting Salary
Aviation Overview in Nevada
Allegiant Air is headquartered in Las Vegas, providing local pilot base opportunities on the Airbus A320 family.
Nellis Air Force Base hosts the USAF Warfare Center and the Thunderbirds aerial demonstration team, as well as Red Flag exercises.
Las Vegas's year-round clear weather and proximity to restricted military airspace make it ideal for both civilian and military flight training.
Major Airports in Nevada
Nevada is served by 4 major airports, each offering different opportunities for airline, cargo, corporate, and general aviation pilots.
Airlines Hiring in Nevada
The following airlines operate flights out of Nevada airports and may have pilot bases or domiciles in the state. Check each airline's career page for current openings.
Spirit Airlines
View salary dataAllegiant Air
View salary dataSouthwest Airlines
View salary dataFrontier Airlines
View salary dataAverage Pilot Salaries in Nevada
Annual Salary Range
$90,000 - $200,000
National Median (BLS)
$198,190
Pilot salaries in Nevada vary based on employer type (airline, cargo, corporate, military), aircraft type, seniority, and rank. Entry-level positions such as flight instructors or regional first officers earn at the lower end, while senior captains at major airlines and cargo carriers earn at the top of the range. For a detailed breakdown, see our complete pilot salary guide.
Top Aviation Employers in Nevada
Allegiant Air (HQ)
Nellis AFB
Creech AFB (drone operations)
Maverick Helicopters
Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters
Flight Schools in Nevada
Nevada has approximately 30 flight schools offering training from Private Pilot License (PPL) through Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) ratings. Whether you are looking for Part 61 or Part 141 programs, accelerated courses, or university-affiliated aviation degrees, Nevada has options to fit your goals and budget.
Browse Flight SchoolsHow to Start Your Pilot Career in Nevada
Get Your Medical Certificate
Visit an FAA Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) in Nevada to obtain your medical certificate. Most student pilots need at least a Third-Class Medical, though a First-Class Medical is required for airline operations.
Earn Your Private Pilot License (PPL)
Enroll at one of Nevada's 30+ flight schools. The PPL requires a minimum of 40 hours of flight time (Part 61) or 35 hours (Part 141), though most students need 60-70 hours.
Build Hours and Add Ratings
Work toward your Instrument Rating, Commercial Pilot License, and possibly your CFI (Certified Flight Instructor) rating to build hours. Most airlines require 1,500 total hours for the ATP certificate.
Apply to Airlines and Employers
With your ATP minimums met, apply to regional airlines, cargo operators, or corporate flight departments in Nevada. Many of the state's top employers actively recruit pilots year-round.
For a more detailed walkthrough, read our complete guide to becoming a pilot.
Related Resources
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