A Pilot’s Guide to the Pinnacle of Corporate Aviation in 2026
The landscape of corporate aviation has shifted. While the airlines are still recovering from the hiring frenzies of the early 2020s, the Part 135 and Part 91 sectors have seen a massive influx of ultra-long-range “heavy iron.” If you are a pilot looking to reach the top of the pay scale, the choice often comes down to two airframes: the Bombardier Global 7500 and the Gulfstream G700.
1. Performance and Flight Deck Philosophy
The “Vision” flight deck of the Bombardier and the “Symmetry” flight deck of the Gulfstream represent two different schools of thought.
- The Global 7500: Known for its fly-by-wire precision and the “Vision” flight deck (based on Collins Pro Line Fusion), it offers incredible steep-approach capabilities. For a pilot, this means access to restricted runways like London City (LCY) that other heavies can’t touch.
- The Gulfstream G700: The G700 utilizes active control sidesticks—a first in the industry—which provide tactile feedback between pilots. For those coming from a traditional yoke, the transition to the Symmetry deck is a leap into the future of ergonomics and “Phase-of-Flight” automation.
2. Training and Type Rating ROI
In 2026, a type rating in either of these aircraft is essentially a “golden ticket.”
- Initial Training Costs: Expect initial training at facilities like CAE or FlightSafety to range between $80,000 and $110,000.
- Market Demand: Currently, there is a significant shortage of “Type-Rated and Current” PICs for these specific models. Charter operators are frequently paying daily contract rates exceeding $2,500–$3,500 for qualified crews to cover Part 135 trips.
3. Salary and Compensation Trends
The salary gap between the Major Airlines and Corporate Aviation has closed significantly for ultra-long-range captains.
- Global 7500/G700 Captains: Base salaries are now regularly hovering between $250,000 and $325,000, with some high-utilization Part 135 operators offering total compensation packages (including retention bonuses) nearing $400k.
- The Lifestyle Factor: Unlike the airlines, flying these jets involves managing the “Full Service” aspect of business aviation. You aren’t just a pilot; you are a manager of a $75 million asset.
4. Part 91 vs. Part 135: What You Need to Know
Transitioning into these roles requires more than just stick-and-rudder skills. You must be fluent in the regulatory environment.
- OpSpec A014 & C049: Navigating Class G airspace and understanding Departure Alpha Airport Analysis (DAAP) is critical for these heavy jets when operating into smaller regional airports.
- The Corporate “Ego” Check: Most 135 operators are looking for pilots who can handle the “hands-on” nature of the work—overseeing catering, coordinating with FBOs, and providing a white-glove experience for the principal.
