Air Cargo Pilot Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an era of global commerce, the role of air cargo pilots has become more critical than ever.

As international trade expands, the demand for skilled pilots who can safely and efficiently navigate our airways heightens.

But what does being an air cargo pilot really entail?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker keen to understand the nature of this role,
• A hiring manager detailing the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the world of aviation,

You’ve landed at the right spot.

Today, we present a customizable air cargo pilot job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s take off right away.

Air Cargo Pilot Duties and Responsibilities

Air Cargo Pilots are responsible for transporting goods and cargo to different locations via air.

They need to ensure the safety and timely delivery of cargo, and must adhere to all federal regulations and guidelines.

The duties and responsibilities of an Air Cargo Pilot include:

• Operating aircraft to transport goods to and from specified locations
• Ensuring the aircraft is pre-flight checked and safe for operation
• Adhering to all flight operation regulations and guidelines as set by the FAA
• Maintaining clear and accurate flight records
• Handling any emergency situations that may arise during flight
• Planning the most efficient route for cargo transport, taking into account weather conditions and fuel efficiency
• Communicating with air traffic control during take-off, flight, and landing
• Inspecting cargo loads to ensure they are secure and balanced prior to take-off
• Coordinating with ground crew for safe loading and unloading of cargo
• Maintaining up-to-date knowledge of the aircraft systems and equipment
• Performing minor maintenance tasks on the aircraft when necessary

 

Air Cargo Pilot Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are in search of a skilled Air Cargo Pilot to ensure safe and timely transport of goods and materials.

The Air Cargo Pilot responsibilities include creating flight plans, supervising the loading and unloading of cargo, and maintaining the aircraft to ensure its safety and functionality.

Our ideal candidate has excellent flying skills, a keen understanding of aviation regulations, and strong decision-making abilities.

The role of the Air Cargo Pilot is to ensure all cargo deliveries are completed efficiently without compromising on safety and security measures.

 

Responsibilities

• Create flight plans considering aircraft performance, loading, weather, and routing.
• Conduct pre-flight inspections to ensure aircraft are safe and ready for flight.
• Supervise the loading and unloading of cargo to maintain balance and ensure safe operation.
• Operate aircraft controls and equipment during flights.
• Communicate with air traffic control during take-off, flight, and landing.
• Monitor and respond to changes in weather, engine operation and passenger comfort during flights.
• Perform emergency procedures when necessary.
• Ensure all operations comply with FAA regulations.

 

Qualifications

• Valid commercial pilot’s license with multi-engine and instrument ratings.
• Previous experience as a cargo pilot, airline pilot, or in a similar role.
• Thorough understanding of FAA regulations and procedures.
• Exceptional problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Excellent communication and team management abilities.
• Good physical and mental health.
• Willingness to work irregular hours and spend significant time away from home.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Travel benefits

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Air Cargo Pilot
• Work Environment: The job involves extensive travel and irregular work hours. Most of the work is performed in the aircraft, with potential for international travel.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Chief Pilot or Director of Operations.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $80,000 minimum to $200,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Air Cargo Pilot Do?

Air Cargo Pilots are professional aviators who are primarily responsible for flying cargo planes to transport goods and materials, typically for commercial airlines, freight distributors, or shipping companies.

They are responsible for performing pre-flight inspections of aircraft systems and equipment to ensure the plane is safe for travel.

They must also check the weather conditions before flights and choose the best routes and altitudes, considering fuel efficiency and weather.

During the flight, they monitor the aircraft’s performance, navigational devices, and weather conditions.

They also communicate with air traffic control personnel to receive and relay flight information.

Air Cargo Pilots also oversee the loading and unloading of cargo to ensure that it is balanced correctly within the aircraft.

They need to verify that the weight of the cargo does not exceed the aircraft’s capacity.

In case of emergencies, they must follow standard procedures to ensure the safety of the cargo and the aircraft.

They also complete post-flight checks and keep detailed records of their flights.

This includes any maintenance issues they noticed during the flight which need to be reported to the appropriate maintenance personnel.

Air Cargo Pilots must comply with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) rules and regulations and stay up-to-date with changes in these regulations and advancements in aviation technology.

 

Air Cargo Pilot Qualifications and Skills

An efficient Air Cargo Pilot should possess a unique blend of technical skills, physical fitness, and soft skills including:

• Air navigation skills to accurately fly aircraft using navigational aids and instruments.
• Technical knowledge of aircraft systems and operations to safely and efficiently operate aircraft.
• Physical fitness and endurance, as the job requires long hours, often in challenging conditions and irregular sleep patterns.
• Strong decision-making skills to make quick, informed decisions in emergencies or unexpected situations.
• Communication skills to effectively interact with air traffic controllers, crew members and ground staff.
• Problem-solving skills to identify and rectify technical and non-technical issues that may arise during flight.
• Knowledge of air cargo handling and safety protocols to ensure the safe and efficient transport of cargo.
• Ability to remain calm and perform under stress, particularly in emergency situations.
• Understanding of meteorology to interpret weather conditions and their impact on flight operations.
• Knowledge of federal aviation regulations to ensure compliance with legal requirements and safety standards.

 

Air Cargo Pilot Experience Requirements

Aspiring Air Cargo Pilots typically must have a significant amount of flight experience to meet the qualifications of most airlines.

This is often obtained through serving in roles such as Flight Instructors, Regional Airline Pilots, or Military Pilots.

Entry-level candidates may have around 500 to 1,000 hours of flight experience.

This experience can be gained through flight school, military service, or working as a flight instructor.

In addition, they must also have their commercial pilot’s license, instrument rating, and multi-engine rating.

Candidates with more than 2 years of experience or 1,500 hours of flight time are often eligible for Airline Transport Pilot Certificate (ATP), which is the highest level of aircraft pilot certification.

This certification qualifies pilots for most commercial airline positions and can help them stand out when applying for air cargo pilot positions.

For those with more than 5 years of experience and upwards of 3,000 hours of flight time, they may be considered for senior pilot roles or even supervisory or managerial roles within the air cargo operations.

These individuals typically have extensive knowledge of aircraft systems, safety procedures, and aviation regulations, coupled with strong leadership and decision-making skills.

In addition to flight hours and experience, air cargo pilots are also required to have a first-class medical certificate, pass all written exams, and maintain their skills through regular flight reviews and instrument proficiency checks.

 

Air Cargo Pilot Education and Training Requirements

To become an Air Cargo Pilot, individuals typically require a bachelor’s degree in aviation, aeronautical science, or a related field.

This degree program should include courses in physics, mathematics, aeronautics, and aviation safety.

It is mandatory for Air Cargo Pilots to have a commercial pilot’s license issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

This requires a minimum of 250 hours of flight experience, passing a written test, and demonstrating flying ability.

Furthermore, they are required to obtain an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate.

The ATP certificate requires 1,500 hours of flight experience, and the ability to pass written and flight examinations.

Most air cargo companies prefer pilots with additional ratings such as Instrument rating (IR) and Multi-Engine Rating (MER), which allow them to fly under various weather conditions and operate aircraft with more than one engine.

In addition, air cargo pilots must have a certain amount of flying experience to be considered for a job.

For large cargo planes, many companies prefer pilots with about 3,000 hours of flight time.

Continuous training and recertification are necessary as technology evolves and FAA regulations change.

Although not required, some pilots may pursue a master’s degree in aviation or related fields to enhance their career opportunities or advance into a management position.

 

Air Cargo Pilot Salary Expectations

The average salary for an Air Cargo Pilot is approximately $102,000 (USD) per year.

However, the actual earnings can fluctuate based on factors such as years of flying experience, the size and type of aircraft flown, and the geographical location of the employment.

 

Air Cargo Pilot Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Air Cargo Pilot need?

Air Cargo Pilots need to have excellent flying skills and a thorough understanding of navigation and meteorology.

They should have good spatial awareness and hand-to-eye coordination.

Attention to detail, problem-solving skills and the ability to remain calm under pressure are crucial.

Strong communication skills are also important as they need to communicate effectively with air traffic control and the airline’s operations team.

 

Do Air Cargo Pilots need a degree?

Air Cargo Pilots typically need to have a Bachelor’s Degree in aviation, physical science, or related field.

However, the most important requirement is to have a commercial pilot’s license from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Beyond that, they need an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate if they are to be in charge of an aircraft with more than one pilot.

 

What should you look for in an Air Cargo Pilot resume?

An Air Cargo Pilot’s resume should include their flight hours, certifications, and type ratings for specific aircraft.

Experience in the field is crucial, so look for pilots who have spent time flying cargo planes.

Any additional qualifications, such as instrument or multi-engine ratings, should also be highlighted.

 

What qualities make a good Air Cargo Pilot?

A good Air Cargo Pilot is responsible, detail-oriented and able to stay calm under pressure.

They should be able to make quick decisions when necessary, and have good problem-solving skills.

Physical health is also important, as pilots must pass a medical examination to ensure they’re fit to fly.

 

What are the daily duties of an Air Cargo Pilot?

An Air Cargo Pilot’s daily duties can include pre-flight inspections of aircraft systems, planning flights, and checking weather conditions.

During the flight, they are responsible for navigating, communicating with air traffic control, and handling any unexpected situations that might arise.

After landing, they complete post-flight checks and paperwork.

 

How physically demanding is the job of an Air Cargo Pilot?

While not traditionally physically strenuous, the job of an Air Cargo Pilot does require long hours, often at night or in early mornings.

The job can be mentally demanding, requiring intense concentration.

Pilots may also have to deal with jet lag from crossing multiple time zones.

Regular medical checks are mandatory to ensure the pilot is physically fit to handle these demands.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve given you a comprehensive insight into what it means to be an air cargo pilot.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about flying planes.

It’s about ensuring the safe and efficient transportation of goods, one flight at a time.

With our handy air cargo pilot job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take off.

But why settle for just that?

Go the extra mile with our job description generator. It’s your next stop for creating precise job listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every flight is a critical part of the global supply chain.

Let’s keep the world moving. Together.

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