What is an air traffic controller?
Do you want to be part of the travel industry without spending all your time away from home? Do you want to help people and part an important role in the safety of others? Consider becoming an air traffic controller, a position that provides critical services to the airlines and offers incredible benefits.
The job can be stressful and requires a lot of training and education. Air traffic controllers must be prepared to act quickly and calmly in various scenarios. The job is secure and pays well, but it requires high concentration and experience. The high level of responsibility comes with many steps to land yourself in this role finally.
Duties and responsibilities
Air traffic controllers are responsible for coordinating airplanes in the sky and on the ground. They are the main contact for pilots and help them monitor the air space and stay up to date on any changes due to weather or runway conditions. Air traffic controllers guide pilots during take-off and landings with instructions.
The safety of the people on the planes and those on the ground is always the number one priority for air traffic controllers. Along with safety, they help to keep the traffic moving efficiently and without delays. The position uses radar, computer technology, visual references, and a collection of communication options to get planes from one destination to the next successfully.
Different air traffic controllers handle different parts of the flight plan, so a transition also occurs. They constantly alert pilots and flight staff to changes in weather, runway closures, and other critical information during the flight. ATCs are often the first to alert emergency response staff if something happens during the flight, takeoff, or landing.
Work environment
Air traffic controllers work in a few different locations depending on their position. The rooms where the work is done are usually quiet and calm so everyone can concentrate. Control towers are used for ground control where all the planes are visible. Other controls happen at approach control facilities and route centers.
Most of the work is done using screens, so there are long periods of sitting and concentrating on the maps. Everyone needs to take breaks and give their eyes a rest while stretching muscles and moving around a bit.
Typical work hours
Air traffic controllers must work whenever airports open and flights are happening. Especially with larger airports with around-the-clock activity, night and weekend shifts will be part of the rotation. Some smaller airports only operate from dawn to dusk.
Shifts are never more than 10 hours long because it’s important to be able to stay focused and alert. Each shift must have at least nine hours between them to give the controller the proper time to rest. Even if schedules switch to a different time of day, they will never be back-to-back. Schedules are carefully regulated to ensure everyone has time to rest and prepare for their next shift.
How to become an air traffic controller
In order to become an air traffic controller, you will need a combination of education, training, and experience. In this career guide section, we cover the steps you’ll need to take to achieve your goal:
Step 1: Make sure you meet the FAA requirements
Before you enroll in training courses, it’s important to ensure you meet all the FAA requirements. You must be a US citizen and be 30 years old or under when you complete the application process. There is a medical evaluation and drug screening that everyone goes through, along with a background check and security investigation.
All applicants need to speak clear English. A few exams and a personality assessment will come after the training course. Jobs can pop up nationwide, and you have to be willing to relocate to a place with a need or job opening.
Step 2: Complete education requirements
Air traffic controllers don’t necessarily have to get a college degree, but when filling job openings, the spots go to those who have completed their education first. A handful of schools nationwide have a certified Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative Program (AT-CTI). Two- and four-year programs teach the basics of air traffic control. Anyone who has completed this program can skip the first five weeks of the FAA Academy program.
Step 3: Pass the qualifying tests
The FAA Air Traffic Pre-Employment test needs to be passed first. This assesses the personality and fitness of each applicant to ensure they can handle the stresses of the job. Apply to take the Air Traffic Selection and Training exam. There are practice tests you can take online. The exams cover logical reasoning, concentration, spatial orientation, and monitoring.
Once you’ve passed the exams, you can apply for jobs. A job offer is required to move on to the next step of the training course. If any part of the test is not passed, applicants can retake the exam up to three times.
Step 4: Complete the FAA training course
The FAA Academy is located in Oklahoma City, OK. Once you have a job offer, you’ll travel to Oklahoma and spend two to five months onsite completing the training. The length of time and training program depends on your background and your accepted position.
Step 5: Gain job experience
New air traffic controllers will usually begin as developmental controllers and will be responsible for communicating basic information to pilots. It’s great exposure to see how things happen and learn more from the experienced controllers around you. With more experience in the role, you’ll be able to advance to positions with more responsibility.
Step 6: Receive full certification
All air traffic controllers will need to be FAA certified. This certification comes after passing all required exams and completing your on-the-job training and experience requirements. This full process takes about two to four years.
Step 7: Continue learning about air travel
Once you are in the role, it’s important to continue learning about air travel and the changes in technology. Some controllers even go on to get their pilot’s license. There are a few credible resources available to help you continue your education.
- Udemy offers a collection of courses related to aviation. Receive an introduction to flight training or take courses on specific aircraft. Each course is taught by a qualified instructor and has reviews from others who have participated.
- Coursera has a course on Urban Air Mobility, a relatively new field. It touches on the possibility of shifting more traffic to the skies, which could really change the role of air traffic controllers in the decades to come.
How much do air traffic controllers make?
There are many variables that go into determining how much an air traffic controller makes, from company size to experience to education just to name a few. Air traffic controllers work for the federal government, so there aren’t other industries to choose from. There is some variation in income based on location.
The top-paying states for air traffic controllers to work in are (shown in annual mean salary):
- Virginia – $152,450
- New Hampshire – $150,490
- Illinois – $145,470
- Georgia – $144,840
- California – $141,200
The average national salary for an air traffic controller is:
$63,450
Types of air traffic controllers
Air traffic controllers help manage every minute, from when the flight door is closed to when they pull up at the gate of the destination airport. Different types handle each section of the flight, plus there is a management structure to oversee the controllers.
Tower controllers
Tower controllers are responsible for the runways and taxiways at the airport. They work from the air traffic control tower and observe the planes from there. This position gives clearance for takeoff and landing as well. They work closely with the terminal controllers for the appropriate handoffs.
Terminal controllers
The terminal controllers control departures and arrivals. They ensure the space between each plane for safety reasons. From the terminal radar approach control center (TRACONs), the terminal controllers clear planes to enter and exit the controlled airspace around an airport. They are responsible for updating weather conditions and important information about the local airport.
En route controllers
The third main type is the en route controller. These positions help planes that are no longer in the controlled airspace of a specific airport. If a flight plan needs to be adjusted en route, this person will work with the pilot to make that happen. It’s important to avoid bottlenecks at any specific airport, so they may assist in rerouting a plane needing land to refuel. They do not often work at the airports but at a control center.
There is a hierarchy within the air traffic control space, and there are options to level up and become a manager. The FAA manages everything, and the headquarters in Washington, D.C., is responsible for settling any issues and controlling the operations overall.
Top skills for air traffic controllers
To become an air traffic controller, applicants need post-secondary education and experience. It’s also required for all applicants to be US Citizens and fall within the acceptable age range for the position. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and cannot be older than 30 years of age to start the training for an entry-level position.
Having strong math and problem-solving skills for the air traffic controller position is important. Flight plans involve a lot of coordination, especially if any changes need to occur. Adaptability is a good quality for this position. The ability to concentrate and stay focused is also important. The FAA will complete medical and security screenings for all applicants as well.
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Career path
Air traffic controllers benefit from great job security, early retirement options, and fantastic benefits and pay structures. There are few ways to move up to higher levels because there aren’t many roles. But with seniority comes better schedules and first choice at certain shifts. Most air traffic controllers can retire comfortably after 25 years, so it’s a job that provides some stability for the long term.
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Position trends and outlook
A career as an air traffic controller has a positive outlook. The air travel industry expected to continue growing, leading to an increase in demand for air traffic controllers. The increasing use of technology and automation plays a growing role in assisting air traffic controllers.
For instance, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has implemented NextGen to modernize and improve the safety and efficiency of air traffic control systems. Adapting to the latest technology and working collaboratively with automated systems will be necessary for air traffic controllers.
Employment projections for air traffic controllers
The industry is regulated and doesn’t fluctuate much. With increases in travel, there are predictions that the role will grow by about 2.5% over the next decade. There are currently about 24,000 total jobs, and openings are created when people retire or change careers or if new spots are added.
Air traffic controller career tips
Soft skills and traits for air traffic controllers
A general love of airplanes is helpful. The more technical knowledge you have about the planes themselves, the easier it can be to assist in an emergency. Improve your focus and concentration. Practice meditation and breathwork to develop methods to use in high-stress situations. Do jigsaw puzzles or crossword puzzles as well.
Commonly required skills and qualifications
Learn about weather patterns. Understanding how wind and weather impact the skies and air travel is important. You’ll learn about this during training but you can always take it further. Practice math skills. Keep your brain sharp on quick math skills and problems by doing math games and challenges in your free time.
Gain experience in high-pressure roles. One option is a short-order cook. You’ll have tons of demands coming at you, and if you can stay calm and complete the tasks in a timely manner, you’ll be practicing for the ATC job.
Develop a professional network
Join networks of professionals in the industry. It will help you gain additional insight into the role and insider tips to help you prepare. Here are a few that we recommend:
- Air Traffic Control Network
- National Air Traffic Controllers Association
- International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers
- Federal Aviation Administration Managers Association
Where the jobs are
Top
companies
- US Army
- US Air Force
- Amazon
- Target
- FAA
- UPS
Top
states
- Delaware
- Connecticut
- Michigan
- New Hampshire
- Pennsylvania
Top
job sites
- Indeed
- ZipRecruiter
- Careerbuilder
- Monster
FAQs
What education is required to become an air traffic controller?
To become an air traffic controller, you should have either a bachelor’s or associate’s degree from a certified Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative program. If you do not have that, you’ll need three years of experience, four years of post-secondary education, or a mixture of both.
Is the training for the air traffic controllers position paid?
The FAA pays for the initial training for entry-level air traffic controller positions. Trainees must go to the Oklahoma City training center and be compensated for their time. Additional training after that will be paid for at their local facility.
Do air traffic controllers work long hours?
Air traffic controllers have schedules that are carefully monitored. It’s not allowed for them to work longer than 10-hour shifts. In addition, each shift must be at least nine hours between the shifts.
How long does it take to become an air traffic controller?
The process of becoming an air traffic controller typically takes a few years. Applicants need to obtain the required education and pass all the exams. The FAA training takes two to five months, depending on the position, and hands-on experience is required.
What skills does an air traffic controller need?
Concentration is one of the most important skills required for air traffic controllers. Being able to remain calm in high-pressure situations will be critical as well. Other important skills for the ATC position include strong communication skills, confident decision-making, and problem-solving skills.
How does the FAA select candidates for air traffic controller positions?
All candidates for air traffic controllers will be selected from two pools of people, one from recruits completing their education and the other from veterans in the system. Applicants must pass all required exams and complete training and hands-on experience hours to prepare.
What are the age requirements to become an air traffic controller?
Air traffic controllers must be at least 18 years of age to begin their education and training. With no previous air traffic controller experience, applicants must also be 30 years old or younger as well to begin the training.
Is there a high demand for air traffic controllers?
The number of air traffic controller positions is pretty small, but some growth is expected in the next decade. The openings are mainly based on people exiting the job for retirement or to switch careers.
Where is the best place to live to become an air traffic controller?
To have the best chances of getting a job as an air traffic controller, you should be flexible and open to moving anywhere. The openings are based on which airports have spots to fill, and if you’re willing to move anywhere in the country, you’ll have a much easier time getting placed once completing your training.
Do air traffic controllers need to know how to fly a plane?
Air traffic controllers are not required to know how to fly a plane, but they will be required to understand many of the different technical aspects of airplanes. Having some basic piloting knowledge can be extremely helpful, but it is not mandatory to obtain an ATC job.
How often are new air traffic controllers hired?
The FAA hires new air traffic controllers annually, so all the training and education can be coordinated. The number of open jobs each year depends on the needs of the airports and amount of people retiring from the position.
Is the job of an air traffic controller the most stressful job in the world?
Air traffic controllers are responsible for keeping people in the air safe, but they are extremely well-trained for all scenarios. The work environment is typically quiet and calm as everyone focuses on the task. Typically, air traffic controllers retire earlier than other positions because staying up to date with training and completing the task each day is stressful.
How many people make it through the training?
The process of becoming an air traffic controller is difficult and requires a lot of training and exams. About 70% of applicants do not make it through the system to the end. The job requires a lot of calm concentration, and many people cannot do that. It’s a zero-margin job, so they only take the strongest candidates.