When people dream of becoming a pilot, they often picture flying big jets for major airlines, racking up miles at 35,000 feet, and collecting passport stamps from around the world. But for many aviators, there’s a whole different world of flying—one that’s just as exciting, often more flexible, and deeply rewarding. Welcome to the world of Part 135 pilot jobs.

These jobs don’t always make headlines, but they’re the beating heart of charter and on-demand aviation. From flying private clients to remote destinations to handling time-sensitive cargo flights, Part 135 pilots are often where aviation gets personal, agile, and hands-on.

So, What is a Part 135 Operation?

In aviation, the Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs) are broken into parts. Part 135 governs commuter and on-demand flight operations, including:

• Air taxi services
• Private charters
• Medical and air ambulance flights
• Small cargo and freight runs
• Helicopter operations

Unlike Part 121 (used by airlines), Part 135 flights are typically operated on smaller aircraft and cater to more niche, flexible missions. Think luxury jet charters, last-minute business flights, or flying life-saving organs across the country.

What It’s Like to Be a Part 135 Pilot

Part 135 pilot jobs are as diverse as the people who fly them. You might fly a King Air today, a Learjet tomorrow, and land on a remote airstrip in between. While the aircraft might be smaller than those flown by airline pilots, the responsibilities—and the opportunities—are just as big.

Here’s what makes these jobs so unique:

1.      Dynamic Schedules

No two days are the same. One day might involve a quick passenger charter to a nearby city; the next could be an emergency cargo flight late at night. This lifestyle suits pilots who love variety and aren’t tied to the 9-to-5 mindset.

2.      Close-Knit Teams

Working for a Part 135 operator often means joining a small, tight crew. Pilots get to know the dispatchers, mechanics, and passengers on a personal level. You’re not just a number—you’re a core part of the team.

3.      Hands-On Flying

Forget autopilot at cruise for hours. Part 135 flying often means short hops, challenging landings, mountain airports, and real stick-and-rudder skills. It’s the kind of flying that keeps your heart in the game and your hands on the controls.

4.      Valuable Flight Experience

For newer pilots, it’s a phenomenal way to build time, especially turbine and multi-engine hours. For experienced ones, it’s a lifestyle choice, offering more freedom than airline life without sacrificing professionalism.

Types of Aircraft You Might Fly

Depending on the company and mission, Part 135 pilots might fly:

• Turboprops (e.g., King Air, Pilatus PC-12)
• Light to midsize jets (e.g., Citation, Learjet, Phenom)
• Helicopters (e.g., Bell 407, Airbus H125)
• Cargo aircraft (e.g., Caravan, Metroliner)

Every aircraft comes with its challenges and excitement, and often, you’ll master more than one type.

The Perks of Part 135 Flying

While it might not come with airline crew lounges and loyalty perks, there are real benefits to being a Part 135 pilot:

• Flexible routes and destinations
• Opportunity to live in unique locations
• Frequent flying hours
• Potential for quick upgrades
• Less seniority-based hierarchy

Some operators even allow for home-based flying, meaning you can live where you want, as long as you’re close to your assigned aircraft or base.

Things to Consider

It’s not all sunsets from the cockpit. There are challenges, too:

• Unpredictable schedules – You may be on-call for several days in a row.
• Fatigue management – Though there are duty limits, they’re less restrictive than airline rules.
• Lower pay at entry levels – Starting salaries can be modest, though they climb quickly with experience.
• Weather and terrain – You’ll often be flying into smaller, less-controlled airports that require sharp decision-making.

But for pilots who love the raw experience of flying and want to escape the corporate airline structure, these are often trade-offs worth making.

How to Land a Part 135 Pilot Job

Here are a few steps to help you break in:

• Meet Minimums – Most jobs require 1,200 total hours, including night and cross-country time.
• Get Your Commercial and Instrument Ratings – Essential for Part 135.
• Tailor Your Resume – Highlight multi-engine, turbine time, and real-world experience.
• Network – Many jobs are filled through word of mouth, industry forums, or aviation job fairs.
• Start Small – Entry-level roles may involve right-seat flying or SIC (Second-in-Command) positions.

Final Thoughts: Is Part 135 Right for You?

Part 135 pilot jobs aren’t for everyone, but for those who value adventure, variety, and the personal side of aviation, they can be a dream come true.

If you’re looking for a flying career that’s more about freedom than formality, where no two days are the same and every takeoff feels like an opportunity, Part 135 might just be your runway to something incredible.

So buckle up, stay sharp, and leap. The skies are waiting—and not all runways lead to the airlines.