Pilot Travel Center
Introduction: Making Every Journey Easier
Road travel can be exciting and exhausting at the same time. It doesn't
matter if you're driving a truck, traveling in an RV, or just going on a family
road trip: you need to find a place that gives you comfort, safety, and
convenience along the way. Pilot Travel Centers, also known as Pilot Flying J,
are made specifically for this purpose.
With hundreds of locations across the United States and Canada, Pilot Travel Centers have become a trusted name for refueling, resting, and refreshing while on the road. In this article, you’ll learn about what Pilot Travel Centers offer, why they are so popular among travelers, and helpful tips to make the most of your visit.
What Is Pilot Travel Center?
Pilot Travel Center is part of Pilot
Company, one of the largest operators of travel centers and
truck stops in North America.
Founded in 1958, Pilot has grown from a single gas station in Tennessee to a
network of over 800 locations nationwide,
serving millions of travelers and professional drivers every year.
Pilot Travel Centers are not just gas stations-they’re full-service rest stops equipped with everything you might need on a long journey. From clean restrooms and hot showers to fresh meals and reliable Wi-Fi, each location is built to make travel more enjoyable and efficient.
Does Warren Buffett own Pilot Travel Centers?
Yes. Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway now fully owns Pilot Travel Centers (Pilot Company). Berkshire first purchased a majority stake in 2017 and completed the full acquisition in January 2024.
What kind of company is Pilot?
Pilot Company is a travel center and fuel retail business. It operates a large network of truck stops, convenience stores, and fueling stations across North America under the brands Pilot and Flying J. The company serves both professional truck drivers and everyday travelers.
Who is the CEO of Pilot?
As of 2025, the CEO of Pilot Company is Adam Wright.
He was appointed in 2023 to lead the company and continue its
modernization efforts, including the “New Horizons” initiative
to upgrade travel centers nationwide.
Services Offered at Pilot Travel Centers
When you stop at a Pilot Travel Center, you’ll find far more than fuel.
Here’s a closer look at the wide range of services and amenities they offer.
Fueling Stations
Pilot provides gasoline and diesel fuel,
including Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)
for modern trucks.
The fueling areas are large, organized, and designed to handle both passenger
vehicles and heavy trucks efficiently. Many centers are open 24/7, ensuring
drivers can refuel at any time of day or night.
Convenience Stores
Each Pilot Travel Center features a well-stocked convenience
store that sells snacks, beverages, travel essentials, and
safety gear.
You can grab bottled water, hot coffee, energy drinks, sandwiches, and even
fresh fruit—perfect for a quick stop before getting back on the road.
Food and Dining Options
Pilot understands that good food is part of a pleasant journey.
Many locations include fast food chains such as
McDonald’s, Subway, or Wendy’s, while others offer Pilot’s
own kitchen with made-to-order meals, pizza, and hot breakfast
options.
Healthy choices are also available for travelers looking to eat light on the
go.
Clean Restrooms and Showers
Cleanliness is one of Pilot’s strongest qualities. Their restrooms are
cleaned regularly, and most locations offer private shower
facilities-a great relief for truck drivers and long-distance
travelers.
Showers come with towels, soap, and shampoo, giving you a comfortable break
from the road.
Parking and Rest Areas
Finding safe parking can be a challenge for truckers and RV owners, but
Pilot Travel Centers make it easier.
They provide large, well-lit parking lots
with designated areas for trucks, RVs, and cars. Some locations even allow overnight
parking, making them ideal for rest stops during long trips.
Truck Driver Services
Since Pilot serves many professional drivers, they also offer CAT
Scales, laundry facilities, driver
lounges, and truck maintenance services
at select centers.
This focus on convenience and reliability has made Pilot one of the most
trusted brands among America’s trucking community.
Free Wi-Fi and Mobile App
Pilot’s free Wi-Fi allows
travelers to stay connected, check emails, or stream music while resting.
Additionally, the Pilot Flying J mobile app
helps you locate nearby stations, find fuel prices, earn rewards, and reserve
showers or parking-all from your smartphone.
Why Travelers Love Pilot Travel Centers
So, what makes Pilot Travel Center stand out from other stops along the
highway?
Here are a few reasons travelers keep coming back:
Consistency and Reliability
No matter where you travel, Pilot maintains the same high standard of
cleanliness and customer service. You know what to expect-clean facilities,
friendly staff, and fair prices.
Strategic Locations
Pilot Travel Centers are conveniently located near major highways and
interstates, ensuring you’ll find one when you need it most.
This strategic placement saves time and reduces stress for travelers.
All-in-One Experience
Instead of stopping at multiple places for fuel, food, and rest, Pilot
offers everything in one location.
This saves time and simplifies your travel experience, especially for families
or commercial drivers on tight schedules.
Safe and Family-Friendly Environment
Safety is a top priority at Pilot. Well-lit parking areas, 24-hour staff
presence, and visible security cameras help ensure travelers feel comfortable
at all times.
Families with kids also appreciate the clean restrooms, food options, and open
spaces.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit
Here are a few practical tips to help you have the best experience at Pilot
Travel Centers:
Download the Pilot Flying J App
Before your trip, download the Pilot Flying J app
on your phone.
It shows you the nearest centers, current fuel prices, and available amenities.
You can also earn rewards points every
time you make a purchase, which can be redeemed for discounts on fuel, food, or
showers.
Plan Your Stops
If you’re traveling long distances, use the app or website to plan where to
stop for rest and refueling.
This helps you avoid running low on fuel in remote areas and ensures you have
access to all the facilities you need.
Take Advantage of Loyalty Programs
Pilot’s MyRewards program allows
you to collect points for every dollar spent.
Over time, these points can lead to free meals, showers, or even discounts on
future purchases.
Use Showers and Rest Areas Wisely
If you’re on a tight schedule, consider showering during off-peak hours
(early morning or late night) when wait times are shorter.
Always lock your vehicle and keep valuables secure while you rest.
Stay Safe on the Road
Pilot Travel Centers are known for being traveler-friendly, but it’s always
wise to stay alert.
Park in well-lit areas, check your surroundings, and inform someone if you plan
to rest overnight.
Pilot’s Commitment to Innovation and Sustainability
Pilot is not just about convenience-it’s also about progress.
Through its “New Horizons” initiative,
Pilot is investing over $1 billion to
remodel and modernize its travel centers. The updates include cleaner designs,
upgraded dining areas, and improved technology.
Additionally, Pilot is working toward a more sustainable future. The company
has partnered with General Motors and EVgo
to build a nationwide network of electric vehicle
(EV) charging stations at Pilot and Flying J locations.
This move supports the growing number of EV drivers on American roads and shows
Pilot’s dedication to greener transportation.
The Future of Pilot Travel Centers
As travel and transportation evolve, Pilot continues to expand its services.
More travelers are looking for comfort, digital convenience, and sustainability-and
Pilot is leading the way in all three.
Their goal is to create a network of travel centers that not only serve truck
drivers but also families, commuters, and EV users in the years ahead.
With Berkshire Hathaway now fully owning the company, Pilot is positioned to grow even stronger, offering better customer experiences and new technologies for future travelers.
Conclusion: Your Trusted Travel Partner on the Road
Pilot Travel Center is your trustworthy road partner whether you're driving
across the country, managing a trucking route, or going on a weekend adventure.
It's more than just a place to fill up on gas; it's also a place to rest,
refuel, and refresh yourself so you can continue your journey in safety and
comfort.
By offering clean facilities, quality food, safe parking, and digital tools
that make travel easier, Pilot continues to set the standard for travel centers
across North America.
So, the next time you hit the highway, remember
to make Pilot your stop.
You’ll find more than fuel-you’ll find convenience, care, and comfort wherever
the road takes you.