In the fascinating and dynamic field of aviation, the private pilot rating forms the foundation of all other flying, allowing the pilot to operate a diverse range of aircraft for various unique purposes.

As we witness unprecedented growth in the aviation industry, the demand for a qualified private pilot is seeing an upward trend across numerous sectors.

Can You Make Money with a Private Pilot License?

The short answer to whether someone with only a Private Pilot License (PPL) can make money for their flight services is no. To make money as a pilot, you are required to go beyond a Private Pilot License and obtain a Commercial Pilot License (CPL).

The only way a private pilot is allowed to be paid for their services is through pro-rating the costs of aircraft operation with passengers in the aircraft. (Part 61.113)

Obtaining a CPL requires more ground school and flight time. For clarity's sake, the exact language of the limitations of people with a current private pilot license, as stated by the FAA, is as follows: "...no person who holds a private pilot certificate may act as pilot in command of an aircraft that is carrying passengers or property for compensation or hire; nor may that person, for compensation or hire, act as pilot in command of an aircraft."

While it is not permitted to earn income with just a private pilot license, it enables someone with a private pilot license to work in the direction of further certification. We will look at the different ways to branch out beyond a private pilot certificate.

The goal of this article is to provide you with a few brief options for certification beyond a PPL, keeping in mind that, while to be paid for any of these requires a CPL, a PPL holder can still partake in many of these as hobbies.

Commercial Aviation

If you are a private pilot, the way to progress into a career is by acquiring a commercial license. This allows you to be paid for your services in flying anything that requires a license, including both single-engine aircraft and drones.

This career progression is fairly undefined, as there are many conceivable ways to be paid for your services as a pilot.

A fair rule of thumb, though, is to research the industry you plan to enter into prior to seeking certification to enter into said industry. Most of the time, if you are good at what you do and you are in a place where your particular type of flying service is needed, you will find good work.

Corporate Aviation

The world of corporate aviation is also a possibility for PPL holders. As corporate pilots, individuals are most often asked to carry passengers, but there are often other requirements asked of them; this is discretionary to the company you are working for.

While this job demands a high level of professionalism and commitment, a corporate pilot role also brings with it certain perks. These can include travel to exotic locations and greater flexibility in schedule. Moreover, this role can open doors for exceptional career advancement and potent networking opportunities within the corporate sector.

CFI

You can also seek certification as a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI). This role allows PPL holders to inspire and educate the next generation of aviation enthusiasts. This is a prime example of a job where you will likely be paid accordingly to your skill.

The demand for flight instructors is expected to be high for quite some time, so if you are looking for a secure career option in aviation, this field is a good one to get into.

Aerial Surveying and Photography

In the more niche field of aerial surveying, CPL holders have the opportunity to contribute to important sectors such as real estate, urban planning, and environmental studies; these things can still be done with a PPL as long as you are not being paid for it.

Equally artistic and technically demanding, aerial photography and videography offer creative outlets for pilots.

These fields are witnessing high demand in industries such as film, advertising, tourism, and broadcasting offering pilots an opportunity to merge their aviation skills with their creative interests.

EMS and SAR

PPL holders can engage in Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and Search and Rescue (SAR) as volunteers, but they must obtain a CPL to be paid for it.

Providing air transportation for patients in critical conditions is a demanding job that requires additional qualifications and flight training. Despite the challenges, this field offers a rare chance to engage in meaningful work.

Conclusion

Whether your interests lie in the commercial sector, corporate travel, education, creative fields, or life-saving emergency services, there is a niche for you to fly secure in the aviation industry.

We recognize that this article did not go much in-depth, as we have other articles on the issue of further certification. To find more information on each career path and resources for finding job opportunities, click on the page HERE.