Pilot Jobs in Washington
By Renzo, CPL · Updated March 2026
Everything you need to know about aviation careers in Washington (WA). From major airlines and airports to salary expectations and top employers, this guide covers the complete landscape of pilot jobs in Washington.
4
Major Airports
4
Airlines Operating
~40
Flight Schools
$95,000
Starting Salary
Aviation Overview in Washington
Alaska Airlines is headquartered in Seattle, and SEA-TAC is Delta Air Lines' fastest-growing hub on the West Coast.
Boeing's Commercial Airplanes division assembles the 737 in Renton and the 777/787 in Everett, making Washington the heart of U.S. commercial aircraft manufacturing.
Joint Base Lewis-McChord near Tacoma is one of the largest military installations in the western U.S., with Army aviation and Air Force C-17 operations.
Major Airports in Washington
Washington is served by 4 major airports, each offering different opportunities for airline, cargo, corporate, and general aviation pilots.
Airlines Hiring in Washington
The following airlines operate flights out of Washington airports and may have pilot bases or domiciles in the state. Check each airline's career page for current openings.
Alaska Airlines
View salary dataDelta Air Lines
View salary dataSouthwest Airlines
View salary dataHorizon Air
View salary dataAverage Pilot Salaries in Washington
Annual Salary Range
$95,000 - $230,000
National Median (BLS)
$198,190
Pilot salaries in Washington 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 Washington
Alaska Airlines (SEA HQ)
Boeing Commercial Airplanes
Delta Air Lines (SEA Hub)
Horizon Air
JBLM
Flight Schools in Washington
Washington 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, Washington has options to fit your goals and budget.
Browse Flight SchoolsHow to Start Your Pilot Career in Washington
Get Your Medical Certificate
Visit an FAA Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) in Washington 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 Washington'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 Washington. 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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