Pilot Jobs in South Carolina

By Renzo, CPL · Updated March 2026

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

Major Airports

Airlines Operating

~25

Flight Schools

$85,000

Starting Salary

Aviation Overview in South Carolina

Boeing's Charleston facility manufactures the 787 Dreamliner, making South Carolina a significant player in commercial aircraft production.

Joint Base Charleston operates C-17 Globemaster III transport aircraft, providing military airlift career opportunities.

Shaw Air Force Base near Sumter operates F-16 Fighting Falcons and serves as the headquarters of U.S. Air Forces Central.

Major Airports in South Carolina

South Carolina is served by 4 major airports, each offering different opportunities for airline, cargo, corporate, and general aviation pilots.

Airport	ICAO	Location
Charleston International	KCHS	Charleston
Greenville-Spartanburg International	KGSP	Greenville
Myrtle Beach International	KMYR	Myrtle Beach
Columbia Metropolitan	KCAE	Columbia

Airlines Hiring in South Carolina

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

Allegiant Air

Spirit Airlines

JetBlue

SkyWest Airlines

Average Pilot Salaries in South Carolina

Annual Salary Range

$85,000 - $185,000

National Median (BLS)

$198,190

Pilot salaries in South Carolina 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 South Carolina

Boeing (Charleston 787 plant)

Joint Base Charleston

Shaw AFB

Stevens Aviation (MRO)

Allegiant Air

Flight Schools in South Carolina

South Carolina 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, South Carolina has options to fit your goals and budget.

Browse Flight Schools

How to Start Your Pilot Career in South Carolina

Get Your Medical Certificate

Visit an FAA Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) in South Carolina 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 South Carolina'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 South Carolina. 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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