What Skills Do You Need To Be An Air Traffic Controller?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

, , , ,
  • strong eyesight and colour vision.
  • the ability to concentrate for extended periods of time.
  • problem-solving skills.
  • spatial awareness and good coordination.
  • excellent communication and teamworking skills.

What qualifications do you need for an air traffic controller?

You'll need a minimum of 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) or equivalent qualifications , including English and maths. You'll be expected to relocate to Fareham in Hampshire while . Once you qualify, you could work anywhere in the UK.

Is it hard to be an air traffic controller?

Question: How tough is the training to become an air traffic controller? Answer: Training is very tough . The training process depends on which facility a person is assigned. ... However, ARTCCs have a different training process that is more conducive to new hires starting there and progressing successfully.

How do I start a career in air traffic control?

  1. Be a United States citizen.
  2. Be age 30 or under (on the closing date of the application period)
  3. Pass a medical examination.
  4. Pass a security investigation.
  5. Pass the FAA air traffic pre-employment test.
  6. Speak English clearly enough to be understood over communications equipment.

How many hours a week do air traffic controllers work?

Air traffic controllers usually work between 37 and 40 hours a week , but this is spread out over days, nights, weekends and public holidays. Air traffic control has to be manned 24 hours a day, so shift work is used to ensure there is always cover.

How much do ATC make a year?

Starting salaries for graduate roles in the high-pressure job begin at a handsome $99,898 and, on average, controllers earn $141,795 a year .

Is ATC a good career?

The career of an air traffic controller is highly rewarding and a certified controller enjoys a lot of perks. It offers one with great job satisfaction as you get challenging situations which help you utilise your problem-solving skills.

Is there a demand for air traffic controllers?

Job Outlook

Employment of air traffic controllers is projected to grow 4 percent from 2020 to 2030 , slower than the average for all occupations. Despite limited employment growth, about 2,500 openings for air traffic controllers are projected each year, on average, over the decade.

What are the disadvantages of being an air traffic controller?

  • Working as an air traffic controller can be stressful.
  • Air traffic controllers have high levels of responsibility.
  • Your mistakes can take away many lives.
  • You may go to work with a bad feeling.
  • Air traffic controllers also have to work on weekends and holidays.

What is the highest paying job without college?

  • Patrol Officer.
  • Executive Assistant.
  • Sales Representative.
  • Flight Attendant.
  • Electrician.
  • Plumber.
  • Structural Iron and Steelworker.

Why do air traffic controllers have to be under 31?

This is due to an FAA requirement that trainees begin their training at the Academy no later than their 31st birthday , and face mandatory retirement at age 56. However, retired military air traffic controllers may qualify for appointment after reaching 31 years of age.

What age do air traffic controllers retire?

Air traffic controllers employed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) must retire by age 56 —six years before reaching age 62, the age at which people can qualify for old-age insurance benefits under title II of the Social Security Act.

Do air traffic controllers work 7 days a week?

Controllers typically work five eight-hour shifts per week , according to the FAA. Shifts vary, but might include a couple of day shifts, followed by a swing shift and a night shift.

How many days off do air traffic controllers get?

Depending on length of service, Air Traffic Controllers receive 13 to 26 days of vacation and 13 days of sick leave each year, in addition to life insurance and health benefits. Controllers can also retire at an earlier age and with fewer years of service than other Federal employees.

Do air traffic controllers get to fly free?

This would definitely include free or discounted tickets. However, controllers can ride for free on airliners under a program known as Flight Deck Training .

Where do air traffic controllers make the most money?

  • New Hampshire average air traffic controller salary: $147,350.
  • Virginia average air traffic controller salary: $139,520.
  • Illinois average air traffic controller salary: $136,390.
  • Georgia average air traffic controller salary: $136,210.
Juan Martinez
Author
Juan Martinez
Juan Martinez is a journalism professor and experienced writer. With a passion for communication and education, Juan has taught students from all over the world. He is an expert in language and writing, and has written for various blogs and magazines.