Pilot Jobs in Pennsylvania

By Renzo, CPL · Updated March 2026

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

Major Airports

Airlines Operating

~40

Flight Schools

$90,000

Starting Salary

Aviation Overview in Pennsylvania

Philadelphia International is American Airlines' largest hub on the East Coast, with more than 500 daily departures.

Piedmont Airlines, an American Eagle carrier, is headquartered in the greater Philadelphia area and operates Embraer E170/E175 aircraft.

Pennsylvania has a rich aviation heritage, with the Piper Aircraft Museum in Lock Haven and numerous historic airfields.

Major Airports in Pennsylvania

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

Airport	ICAO	Location
Philadelphia International	KPHL	Philadelphia
Pittsburgh International	KPIT	Pittsburgh
Lehigh Valley International	KABE	Allentown
Harrisburg International	KMDT	Harrisburg

Airlines Hiring in Pennsylvania

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

American Airlines

Piedmont Airlines

PSA Airlines

Southwest Airlines

Average Pilot Salaries in Pennsylvania

Annual Salary Range

$90,000 - $215,000

National Median (BLS)

$198,190

Pilot salaries in Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania

American Airlines (PHL Hub)

Piedmont Airlines

PSA Airlines

Pittsburgh ANG

LIFT Academy

Flight Schools in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania has approximately 40 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, Pennsylvania has options to fit your goals and budget.

Browse Flight Schools

How to Start Your Pilot Career in Pennsylvania

Get Your Medical Certificate

Visit an FAA Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) in Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania's 40+ 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 Pennsylvania. 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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