Pilot Jobs in Virginia
By Renzo, CPL · Updated March 2026
Everything you need to know about aviation careers in Virginia (VA). From major airlines and airports to salary expectations and top employers, this guide covers the complete landscape of pilot jobs in Virginia.
4
Major Airports
4
Airlines Operating
~35
Flight Schools
$95,000
Starting Salary
Aviation Overview in Virginia
Washington Dulles International is a major United Airlines hub and serves as the primary international airport for the nation's capital region.
Naval Air Station Oceana in Virginia Beach is the East Coast master jet base for the Navy, home to all East Coast F/A-18 squadrons.
Langley Air Force Base (Joint Base Langley-Eustis) operates F-22 Raptors and is home to Air Combat Command headquarters.
Major Airports in Virginia
Virginia is served by 4 major airports, each offering different opportunities for airline, cargo, corporate, and general aviation pilots.
Airlines Hiring in Virginia
The following airlines operate flights out of Virginia airports and may have pilot bases or domiciles in the state. Check each airline's career page for current openings.
United Airlines
View salary dataAmerican Airlines
View salary dataDelta Air Lines
View salary dataJetBlue
View salary dataAverage Pilot Salaries in Virginia
Annual Salary Range
$95,000 - $230,000
National Median (BLS)
$198,190
Pilot salaries in Virginia 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 Virginia
United Airlines (IAD Hub)
NAS Oceana
JB Langley-Eustis
Boeing (Arlington HQ)
Northrop Grumman (Falls Church)
Flight Schools in Virginia
Virginia has approximately 35 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, Virginia has options to fit your goals and budget.
Browse Flight SchoolsHow to Start Your Pilot Career in Virginia
Get Your Medical Certificate
Visit an FAA Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) in Virginia 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 Virginia's 35+ 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 Virginia. 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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