How much does a charter or helicopter pilot make?

In the US, experience, extra certificates or aircraft ratings, and the kind of flying can help pilots qualify for different jobs. Pay also varies by employer, industry, location, and duties; schedules and work hours can differ too.

Pilot and navigate the flight of fixed-wing aircraft on nonscheduled air carrier routes, or helicopters. Requires Commercial Pilot certificate. Includes charter pilots with similar certification, and air ambulance and air tour pilots. Excludes regional, national, and international airline pilots. Excludes “Electro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians” (17-3024).

What's a typical day like?

Before takeoff, a commercial pilot checks the aircraft, fuel, cargo and weather, files a flight plan, and talks with air traffic control. In the air, they steer and watch instruments and engines, adjusting the plan if weather or trouble changes.

In the US, take flight lessons and earn private, instrument, then commercial certificates; a degree is usually not needed, though some employers prefer one. At 18 or older, meet FAA medical and flight-hour rules, then pass written and flying tests.

Vocational school or a few years' experience (preparation level 3 of 5)

Good for people who like keeping things organized and building and doing.

Some US commercial pilots arrange flights, schedule aircraft maintenance, and even load luggage themselves.

The US figure is the median and the Japan figure is the average, so it's not a perfect comparison. Prices differ too.