What does an air traffic controller do?
Air traffic controllers use radar, computers, or visual references to monitor and direct the movement of the aircraft in the skies and ground traffic at airports. Controllers usually manage multiple aircraft at the same time and must make quick decisions to ensure the safety of aircraft.
Can air traffic controllers control planes?
As an aircraft travels through a given airspace division, it is monitored by the one or more air traffic controllers responsible for that division. The controllers monitor this plane and give instructions to the pilot.
Is air traffic control really stressful?
Being an air traffic controller is an extremely high-stress job, with workers responsible for the movement and direction of thousands of lives onboard commercial and general aviation aircraft every day.
What qualifications do I need to be an air traffic controller?
You’ll need:
- concentration skills.
- knowledge of transport methods, costs and benefits.
- the ability to use your judgement and make decisions.
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure.
- excellent verbal communication skills.
- complex problem-solving skills.
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail.
What is the highest paid air traffic controller?
$197,300
Air Traffic Controller Pay Distribution The average pay for an Air Traffic Controller is $132,558.96. The highest paid Air Traffic Controller made $197,300 in 2020.
How difficult is it to get into ATC?
Controllers train for many years to qualify for the job, and only around 1% of applicants make it through to qualify. Initially, a controller will spend approximately 12 months studying both the practical and theoretical sides of air traffic control at a specialist college.
How hard is ATC training?
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.
How long is a shift for an air traffic controller?
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.