Pilot Jobs in Florida

By Renzo, CPL · Updated March 2026

Everything you need to know about aviation careers in Florida (FL). From major airlines and airports to salary expectations and top employers, this guide covers the complete landscape of pilot jobs in Florida.

Major Airports

Airlines Operating

~250

Flight Schools

$90,000

Starting Salary

Aviation Overview in Florida

Florida has the second-highest number of pilots in the U.S. and is considered the flight training capital of the world.

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach and ATP Flight School headquarters in Jacksonville are among the largest pilot training institutions globally.

Miami is a major international gateway to Latin America and the Caribbean, creating high demand for bilingual pilots.

Major Airports in Florida

Florida is served by 5 major airports, each offering different opportunities for airline, cargo, corporate, and general aviation pilots.

Airport	ICAO	Location
Miami International	KMIA	Miami
Orlando International	KMCO	Orlando
Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International	KFLL	Fort Lauderdale
Tampa International	KTPA	Tampa
Jacksonville International	KJAX	Jacksonville

Airlines Hiring in Florida

The following airlines operate flights out of Florida airports and may have pilot bases or domiciles in the state. Check each airline's career page for current openings.

Spirit Airlines

JetBlue

American Airlines

Southwest Airlines

Silver Airways

Breeze Airways

Average Pilot Salaries in Florida

Annual Salary Range

$90,000 - $220,000

National Median (BLS)

$198,190

Pilot salaries in Florida 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 Florida

Spirit Airlines (FLL HQ)

JetBlue (MCO Focus City)

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

ATP Flight School

L3Harris Flight Academy

Flight Schools in Florida

Florida has approximately 250 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, Florida has options to fit your goals and budget.

Browse Flight Schools

How to Start Your Pilot Career in Florida

Get Your Medical Certificate

Visit an FAA Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) in Florida 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 Florida's 250+ 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 Florida. 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

Pilot Salary Guide (2026) →How to Become a Pilot →Private Pilot License →Part 61 vs Part 141 →Pilot Jobs by State →Flight School Directory →

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