It depends on the type of pilot. The majority of active pilots hold a Private Pilot License, and many of those individuals fly for enjoyment rather than as a profession. According to aviation references many private pilots take to the skies purely for pleasure whether it's for the thrill the freedom or simply the experience of flight.
Recreational Aviation: Flying clubs and general aviation communities are full of enthusiasts who fly recreationally. Flying clubs (or aero clubs) offer members access to aircraft and social events and they are a hub for those who fly for pleasure. The rise of $100 hamburger trips short flights that end in a meal at an airport restaurant captures the essence of casual flying for enjoyment.
Motivations Behind Recreational Flying: Enthusiasts often cite the joy of control the unique perspective on the world the sense of freedom and the community spirit as major draws. Flying is frequently described as a relaxing, meditative experience that offers profound satisfaction beyond what most traditional hobbies provide.
What About Career Pilots: Commercial airline pilots who fly for a living often have a more nuanced relationship with flying as a hobby. Many use flight simulators recreationally to stay sharp. Some also indulge in flying small planes during their time off for example, through fly-ins or GA flying but enthusiasm varies.
Seems like less than 50% keep flying GA in my experience. GA was a means to an end. It feels like 50 / 50. Some guys want nothing to do with GA after they go to the Airlines, others enjoy it.
Other comments highlight that cost risk and fatigue from their profession can deter airline pilots from recreational flying
Hobbyist & Recreational Pilot Stories: A number of individuals train purely for the love of flying without any career aspirations. Some share their passion on forums.
I’ve been flying for 30 years with no airline aspirations. And half my students don’t have airline plans either.
Others mention taking lessons as a hobby planning to own small aircraft and flying weekly just for enjoyment
Summary
Many private and recreational pilots fly purely for the love of aviation. Clubs casual trips like the $100 hamburger, and the simple joy of the experience keep this community vibrant. Commercial pilots who fly for a career sometimes continue flying privately, but it's far from universal factors like cost safety and having flown all day can make them less inclined. Across the spectrum, there are those who fly purely for the passion of it and those for whom flying as a job is enough.