Pilot Jobs in Hawaii
By Renzo, CPL · Updated March 2026
Everything you need to know about aviation careers in Hawaii (HI). From major airlines and airports to salary expectations and top employers, this guide covers the complete landscape of pilot jobs in Hawaii.
4
Major Airports
3
Airlines Operating
~20
Flight Schools
$90,000
Starting Salary
Aviation Overview in Hawaii
Hawaiian Airlines is the state's largest employer of pilots and offers routes across the Pacific to Asia, Australia, and the U.S. mainland.
Inter-island flying is a unique aspect of Hawaiian aviation, with multiple daily flights connecting the major islands.
Hawaii's helicopter tour industry is one of the largest in the world, providing significant employment for rotorcraft pilots.
Major Airports in Hawaii
Hawaii is served by 4 major airports, each offering different opportunities for airline, cargo, corporate, and general aviation pilots.
Airlines Hiring in Hawaii
The following airlines operate flights out of Hawaii airports and may have pilot bases or domiciles in the state. Check each airline's career page for current openings.
Hawaiian Airlines
View salary dataSouthwest Airlines
View salary dataMokulele Airlines
View salary dataAverage Pilot Salaries in Hawaii
Annual Salary Range
$90,000 - $200,000
National Median (BLS)
$198,190
Pilot salaries in Hawaii 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 Hawaii
Hawaiian Airlines
Mokulele Airlines
Blue Hawaiian Helicopters
Maverick Helicopters
Pacific Missile Range Facility
Flight Schools in Hawaii
Hawaii has approximately 20 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, Hawaii has options to fit your goals and budget.
Browse Flight SchoolsHow to Start Your Pilot Career in Hawaii
Get Your Medical Certificate
Visit an FAA Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) in Hawaii 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 Hawaii's 20+ 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 Hawaii. 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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