Pilot Jobs in Ohio
By Renzo, CPL · Updated March 2026
Everything you need to know about aviation careers in Ohio (OH). From major airlines and airports to salary expectations and top employers, this guide covers the complete landscape of pilot jobs in Ohio.
4
Major Airports
4
Airlines Operating
~40
Flight Schools
$85,000
Starting Salary
Aviation Overview in Ohio
Ohio is the birthplace of aviation pioneers Orville and Wilbur Wright and the home of eight U.S. astronauts, earning it the 'Birthplace of Aviation' motto.
Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton is the largest Air Force base by personnel, housing the Air Force Research Laboratory and National Museum of the U.S. Air Force.
Amazon Air's primary hub at CVG (Hebron, KY/Cincinnati area) has created hundreds of cargo pilot jobs in the region.
Major Airports in Ohio
Ohio is served by 4 major airports, each offering different opportunities for airline, cargo, corporate, and general aviation pilots.
Airlines Hiring in Ohio
The following airlines operate flights out of Ohio airports and may have pilot bases or domiciles in the state. Check each airline's career page for current openings.
PSA Airlines
View salary dataAir Wisconsin
View salary dataAllegiant Air
View salary dataAmazon Air
View salary dataAverage Pilot Salaries in Ohio
Annual Salary Range
$85,000 - $195,000
National Median (BLS)
$198,190
Pilot salaries in Ohio 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 Ohio
PSA Airlines (HQ Dayton)
Amazon Air (CVG Hub)
Wright-Patterson AFB
GE Aerospace (Cincinnati)
Ohio State University Aviation
Flight Schools in Ohio
Ohio 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, Ohio has options to fit your goals and budget.
Browse Flight SchoolsHow to Start Your Pilot Career in Ohio
Get Your Medical Certificate
Visit an FAA Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) in Ohio 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 Ohio'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 Ohio. 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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