Pilot Jobs in Massachusetts
By Renzo, CPL · Updated March 2026
Everything you need to know about aviation careers in Massachusetts (MA). From major airlines and airports to salary expectations and top employers, this guide covers the complete landscape of pilot jobs in Massachusetts.
4
Major Airports
4
Airlines Operating
~25
Flight Schools
$95,000
Starting Salary
Aviation Overview in Massachusetts
Boston Logan is JetBlue's second-largest focus city and a major Delta Air Lines hub, creating substantial pilot demand.
Cape Air, headquartered in Hyannis, is one of the largest commuter airlines in the U.S. and a common first job for new commercial pilots.
Massachusetts is home to several prestigious aviation programs, including MIT's Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics.
Major Airports in Massachusetts
Massachusetts is served by 4 major airports, each offering different opportunities for airline, cargo, corporate, and general aviation pilots.
Airlines Hiring in Massachusetts
The following airlines operate flights out of Massachusetts airports and may have pilot bases or domiciles in the state. Check each airline's career page for current openings.
JetBlue
View salary dataDelta Air Lines
View salary dataCape Air
View salary dataAmerican Airlines
View salary dataAverage Pilot Salaries in Massachusetts
Annual Salary Range
$95,000 - $220,000
National Median (BLS)
$198,190
Pilot salaries in Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts
JetBlue (BOS Focus City)
Delta Air Lines
Cape Air (HQ)
GE Aerospace (Lynn)
Raytheon Technologies
Flight Schools in Massachusetts
Massachusetts has approximately 25 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, Massachusetts has options to fit your goals and budget.
Browse Flight SchoolsHow to Start Your Pilot Career in Massachusetts
Get Your Medical Certificate
Visit an FAA Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) in Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts's 25+ 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 Massachusetts. 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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