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piloto means pilot — a common term in Travel Spanish. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: March 22, 2026

✈️ Travel Spanish

piloto

noun • /[pee-LOH-toh]/

pilot

Example:

El piloto anunció turbulencias leves.

The pilot announced light turbulence.

🧠 What does piloto mean?

The word 'piloto' in Spanish is a noun that refers to a person who operates an aircraft. This includes airplanes, helicopters, and other flying vehicles. In a broader sense, 'piloto' can also refer to the driver of a race car or a person who guides a ship through difficult waters, such as a harbor pilot. The term is commonly used in contexts related to aviation and transportation.

📚 Extra examples

  • El piloto aterrizó el avión con gran habilidad.
    The pilot landed the plane with great skill.
  • Los pilotos de carreras son conocidos por su valentía.
    Race car drivers are known for their bravery.
  • El piloto del barco guió a los barcos a través del puerto.
    The ship pilot guided the vessels through the harbor.
  • Se necesita una licencia especial para ser piloto de helicóptero.
    A special license is needed to be a helicopter pilot.

💡 Did You Know?

The word 'piloto' derives from the Latin 'pillus', meaning 'hair', possibly due to the ancient practice of using hair to steer a ship. This etymology highlights the historical connection between navigation and guidance.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "piloto"

Synonyms: aviador, aeronaútico, capitán
Opposites: pasajero

🔍 See more travel spanish words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'pilot' in Spanish?
The Spanish word for 'pilot' is 'piloto'.
How do you pronounce 'piloto' in Spanish?
The pronunciation of 'piloto' is pee-LO-toh. The stress is on the second syllable, 'LO'.
How do you use 'piloto' in a sentence?
'Piloto' is used as a noun. For example: 'El piloto es muy experimentado.' (The pilot is very experienced.)
What is the English translation of 'piloto'?
The primary English translation of 'piloto' is 'pilot'.
Does 'piloto' change for gender or number?
As a noun referring to a person, 'piloto' can change for number: 'piloto' (singular) and 'pilotos' (plural). However, it is a masculine noun and does not change to indicate a female pilot; 'la piloto' is used for a female pilot.
Is 'piloto' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'piloto' is a common word, especially in discussions about travel, aviation, and sometimes in the context of motorsports.
Does 'piloto' have slang or double meanings?
While its primary meaning is straightforward, in some informal contexts, 'piloto' can be used metaphorically to describe someone who takes the lead or initiates something. However, these uses are less common than its literal meaning.
Is 'piloto' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
The core meaning of 'piloto' as an aircraft operator is consistent across Spain and Latin America. Regional variations might exist in colloquial or figurative uses, but the primary definition remains universal.

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