A thoughtful gift for a commercial pilot starting their career could focus on something practical, sentimental, or inspiring. Here are some ideas:

Practical Gifts:
1. Pilot Logbook: A high-quality logbook to record flights. Some come in leather-bound versions for a professional touch.
2. Custom Luggage Tag: A durable, personalized tag with their name and pilot wings or their airline’s logo.
3. Noise-Canceling Headphones: A premium set to reduce cockpit noise during breaks or downtime.
4. Portable Battery Pack: A high-capacity charger for keeping devices powered during long trips.
5. Travel Organizer: A compact bag for organizing cables, passports, pens, and documents.

Sentimental Gifts:
1. Personalized Aviator Wings Pin: A keepsake with their initials or their airline’s logo.
2. Framed Map or Print: A custom map of their first flight path or a vintage aviation-themed print.
3. Engraved Compass: A symbolic gift representing guidance and adventure.

Inspirational Gifts:
1. Books on Aviation: Classics like Fate is the Hunter by Ernest K. Gann or Stick and Rudder by Wolfgang Langewiesche.
2. Pilot-Themed Watch: A stylish aviation watch with practical features like a flight timer or GMT function.

Fun or Unique Ideas:
1. Subscription to an Aviation Magazine: Like Flying or Plane & Pilot.
2. Model Airplane Kit: A model of the aircraft they fly or aspire to fly.
3. Airplane-Themed Apparel: A tie, scarf, or cufflinks with subtle aviation motifs.

Any of these gifts would show thoughtfulness and celebrate their milestone as they begin their journey in the skies.