Bush Pilot Job Opportunities

The allure of flying through the vast, untouched wilderness, navigating through challenging weather conditions, and experiencing the thrill of landing on remote airstrips is a dream for many pilots. Bush piloting, also known as bush flying, offers a unique and exciting career path for those who are passionate about flying and adventure. In this article, we will explore the world of bush piloting, the skills and qualifications required, and the job opportunities available in this field.

Bush piloting involves flying small aircraft, typically single-engine planes or helicopters, in remote and often inhospitable areas. These pilots transport people, cargo, and supplies to areas that are inaccessible by road or other means of transportation. Bush pilots must be highly skilled and experienced, as they often face challenging weather conditions, limited infrastructure, and emergency situations. They must also be able to navigate using visual flight rules (VFR) and instrument flight rules (IFR), and be proficient in aircraft maintenance and repair.

To become a bush pilot, one must possess a commercial pilot’s license with a multi-engine rating, as well as a minimum of 500 hours of flight experience. Many bush pilots also hold a certified flight instructor (CFI) rating, which demonstrates their ability to teach and train others. Additionally, bush pilots must be physically and mentally fit, as they often work in remote and isolated areas with limited access to medical facilities.

There are several job opportunities available for bush pilots, including:

• Charter flying: Bush pilots can work for charter companies, flying passengers and cargo to remote areas for hunting, fishing, and other outdoor activities.
• Medical evacuation: Bush pilots may work for medical evacuation companies, transporting patients from remote areas to medical facilities.
• Cargo transport: Bush pilots can work for cargo companies, transporting goods and supplies to remote areas.
• Tourism: Bush pilots can work for tourism companies, offering scenic flights and adventure tours to remote areas.
• Government agencies: Bush pilots may work for government agencies, such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service or the National Park Service, supporting conservation efforts and wildlife management.

Some of the top employers of bush pilots include:

• Alaska Air: Alaska Air is a major employer of bush pilots, offering charter and cargo services throughout Alaska.
• Kenmore Air: Kenmore Air is a Seattle-based airline that offers charter and cargo services to remote areas in Alaska and the Pacific Northwest.
• Wings Airways: Wings Airways is a charter company that offers flights to remote areas in Alaska and Canada.
• Northwestern Air: Northwestern Air is a Canadian airline that offers charter and cargo services to remote areas in the Northwest Territories and Nunavut.

In terms of salary, bush pilots can earn a competitive income, with median salaries ranging from 60,000 to over 100,000 per year, depending on experience and location. However, the salary is not the only benefit of being a bush pilot. The thrill of flying in remote areas, the sense of adventure, and the opportunity to experience the beauty of nature are all part of the job.

In conclusion, bush piloting is a unique and exciting career path that offers a combination of adventure, challenge, and reward. For those who are passionate about flying and the outdoors, a career as a bush pilot may be the perfect fit. With the right skills, qualifications, and experience, bush pilots can find job opportunities in a variety of fields, from charter flying to medical evacuation and cargo transport. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to transition to a new career, bush piloting is an exciting and rewarding field to explore.