All careers

Freight Pilot

A Freight Pilot transports goods via aircraft, ensuring timely delivery, conducting safety checks, filing flight plans, and maintaining communication with air traffic control.

How do I become a freight pilot

Get qualified to work as a freight pilot with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.

Common questions

In Australia, a full time Freight Pilot generally earns $2,200 per week ($114,400 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.

Author Image Courses.com.au Team

The number of people working in this industry has remained stable over the last five years. There are currently 8,000 people employed as a pilot in Australia, and many of them specialise as a Freight Pilot. Freight Pilots may find work across all regions of Australia.

Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

Author Image Courses.com.au Team

If a career as a Freight Pilot interests you, consider enrolling in a Diploma of Aviation (Commercial Pilot Licence – Aeroplane). You’ll learn to plan a flight and operate an aircraft using instruments. This course covers topics including managing safe flight operations, managing passengers and cargo and maintaining situational awareness.

Author Image Courses.com.au Team

Further reading

Most popular transport and logistics courses

1st August 2022

How to start a career in Logistics

14th October 2021

Choosing a security licence course in Australia: A step-by-step guide for jobseekers

10th November 2023

Freight Pilot careers

A Freight Pilot transports freight via aircraft to various destinations. You’ll prepare aircraft for loading or unloading and conduct safety checks on equipment. Freight Pilots submit flight plans and communicate with air traffic control services. You may have to fill in relevant documentation before or after your flight.

Freight Pilots should have strong technical skills and be able to deliver their goods on time. Safety is important in this role and you must be able to work to correct procedures and standards at all times. Freight Pilots should be excellent communicators and have strong problem solving abilities. You may have to spend some time away from home in this profession.