How to Become an Air Traffic Controller
Have you been fascinated by the air travel system all your life? Would you love a stable, financially rewarding role in the industry without the hassle of having to move around? Sounds like air traffic control could be the career for you. In this article, we discover how to become an air traffic controller to help you decide if this is the job for you.
What Is Air Traffic Control?
Air traffic control is the service responsible for coordinating both passenger and freight aircrafts, maintaining safety and smooth operations for all. Air traffic controllers operate in semi-dark rooms, in which they control their assigned aircraft movements on a radar screen. These professionals usually work full-time, and shifts can include nights, weekends, and holidays. Air traffic controllers often retire at 56 years old due to the demanding conditions in which they work.
What Does an Air Traffic Controller Do?
Air traffic controllers’ responsibilities slightly vary based on if you work in tower control, approach and departure control, or enroute control. However, they generally involve tasks like:
- checking aircraft movements on the ground and in the air
- regulating ground traffic at airport runways and taxiways
- providing guidance to pilots for take-off and landing
- notifying pilots about the weather, runway status, and other information
- accepting or handing over control of flights to other control centers
- coordinating airport support in cases of emergency
How to Become an Air Traffic Controller
If you’re wondering how to become an air traffic controller without a degree, the good news is that you don’t necessarily need one to pursue this career. Obtaining an associate or bachelor’s degree through the Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative program is the easiest way to get into the industry but it’s not mandatory. You’re also eligible to apply for these jobs if you have one of the following:
- a degree in engineering, transportation, or business,
- a minimum of three years of work experience
If you’ve completed a longer training program, or you have a combination of requirements you’ll be even better set up to enter this field.
Regardless, when gathering information on how to become an air traffic controller, keep in mind that to get into air traffic controller school you must:
- be a U.S. citizen
- be under the air traffic controller age limit (31)
- pass a medical evaluation
- pass the Air Traffic Controller Specialists Skills Assessment Battery
Training usually takes place at the Federal Aviation Administration main academy in Oklahoma City. The minimum duration is 12 months but varies depending on your background. Once you graduate from the academy, you’ll be a developmental controller able to provide basic information to pilots until you obtain your Air Traffic Control Tower Operator Certificate. At that point, you’ll be ready to enter the control room and assume more responsibilities.
Some of the crucial skills you’ll need to become an air traffic controller include decision-making, problem-solving, attention to detail, and math.
How Much Does an Air Traffic Controller Make?
The average air traffic controller salary is $129,750 per year. Keep in mind, however, that your wage will vary based on your training, responsibilities, the facility you operate in, and your location. For instance, the industries with the highest average air controller salary include:
- the federal executive branch
- scheduled air transportation
- non-scheduled air transportation
- architectural, engineering, and related services
- support activities for air transportation
On the other hand, as far as locations go, air traffic controllers earn the most in:
While reading this guide on how to become an air traffic controller, you’re surely also asking yourself “how much do air traffic controllers make in my city?”. Head to Monster's Salary Calculator to find out. We’ll provide you with salaries for similar roles as well, plus suggestions on skills to pursue to advance in your field.
How to Find Air Traffic Controller Jobs
Once you are clear on how to become an air traffic controller and have worked to meet all the air traffic controller requirements, it’s time to get in the game and find a job. Your search begins with a well-written resume. It’s important to present your skills and qualifications in a way that catches attention.
Focus on creating a resume that is easy to scan in a matter of seconds. Clear paragraphs, bullet points, columns, and bold texts help you to achieve this. Remember to also adapt your resume for every company you apply to by including keywords from specific ads. Finally, submit your application with a targeted cover letter in which you explain why you want to join the company and what you bring to the table.
Where Do Air Traffic Controllers Work?
Air traffic controllers can work in control towers, approach/depart control facilities nearby airports, or in offices for specific air route centers. The former two are used to coordinate take-offs, landings, and other operations within five miles of the airports. The latter ensures safety in their corresponding area of airspace.
Based on the highest employment level per state, we suggest you start looking for air traffic controller jobs in:
The following U.S. metropolitan areas offer the highest number of opportunities:
You can also explore the industries with the highest levels of employment for air traffic controllers:
- the federal executive branch
- support activities for air transportation
- scheduled air transportation
- local government
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