How to Become a Cargo Pilot (FedEx, UPS, ATI)
Fly freight on heavy iron — FedEx (MD-11/777), UPS (757/767/747), Atlas Air (747), ATI (757/767). Often higher pay-rate ceiling than passenger legacies.
Salary by Career Stage
Entry
$95,000-$140,000 (FO Year 1)
Mid-Career
$220,000-$310,000
Senior
$420,000-$650,000 (FedEx 777 Captain top of scale)
FedEx and UPS top pay rates exceed Delta/United for equivalent equipment. International cargo (Atlas, ATI) pays competitively but with longer trips.
Requirements
Licenses & Ratings
- • ATP
- • Type rating (paid by carrier)
- • Class 1 medical
Flight Hours
Most cargo majors hire from regionals/military with 3,000-5,000 hours; some direct entry
Medical
Class 1
Min Age
23
Additional Certifications
- • RNP/NAT for international cargo
- • Hazmat handling
Pros
- + Highest-paying narrow-body and heavy-iron seats in many cases
- + No passenger service interactions
- + Predictable schedules at FedEx/UPS
- + Strong unions (IPA at FedEx, IPA-UPS)
Cons
- − Mostly nights flying (red-eyes, Memphis hub at FedEx)
- − High-time-zone international trips
- − Less glamour vs passenger flying
Top Employers
A Day in the Life
Show in evening, fly all night, hotel in destination. FedEx Memphis sort, UPS Louisville sort. International cargo: 6-14 day trips.
Training Path
- 1Same as airline path → 1,500 ATP
- 2Regional airline experience or military
- 3Apply to FedEx/UPS at 3,000-4,500 hours
- 4Type rating + line training
Key Traits for Success
Frequently Asked Questions
Is cargo better than passenger?
Higher pay ceiling at FedEx/UPS for equivalent equipment, fewer customer service issues, more night flying. Best for pilots who prefer cargo schedule structure.
Cargo without regional?
Possible at some operators (Atlas Air direct entry at 1,500). FedEx/UPS prefer 3,000+ from regional or military.
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