Pilot Jobs in Arizona
By Renzo, CPL · Updated March 2026
Everything you need to know about aviation careers in Arizona (AZ). From major airlines and airports to salary expectations and top employers, this guide covers the complete landscape of pilot jobs in Arizona.
5
Major Airports
4
Airlines Operating
~60
Flight Schools
$90,000
Starting Salary
Aviation Overview in Arizona
Arizona has over 300 days of sunshine per year, making it one of the best locations in the U.S. for flight training.
Mesa Airlines, one of the largest regional carriers, is headquartered in Phoenix.
The Pinal Airpark near Tucson is the largest aircraft boneyard in the world, and Davis-Monthan AFB stores thousands of military aircraft.
Major Airports in Arizona
Arizona is served by 5 major airports, each offering different opportunities for airline, cargo, corporate, and general aviation pilots.
Airlines Hiring in Arizona
The following airlines operate flights out of Arizona airports and may have pilot bases or domiciles in the state. Check each airline's career page for current openings.
American Airlines
View salary dataSouthwest Airlines
View salary dataMesa Airlines
View salary dataAllegiant Air
View salary dataAverage Pilot Salaries in Arizona
Annual Salary Range
$90,000 - $200,000
National Median (BLS)
$198,190
Pilot salaries in Arizona 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 Arizona
American Airlines (PHX Hub)
Southwest Airlines
Mesa Airlines
Embry-Riddle Prescott
CAE Phoenix
Flight Schools in Arizona
Arizona has approximately 60 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, Arizona has options to fit your goals and budget.
Browse Flight SchoolsHow to Start Your Pilot Career in Arizona
Get Your Medical Certificate
Visit an FAA Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) in Arizona 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 Arizona's 60+ 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 Arizona. 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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