Air Traffic Controllers
O*NET 53-2021.00 · SOC 53-2021
Air Traffic Controller is a solid career choice. Median pay is $148k a year with +1.7% projected growth through 2035 (slower than average) and about 2,100 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Issue takeoff and landing clearances to aircraft at airports.
- →Sequence arriving aircraft into safe landing order by radar.
- →Alert pilots to nearby air traffic or weather hazards.
- →Coordinate handoffs of aircraft between control sectors.
- →Monitor radar screens to maintain safe aircraft separation distances.
Education & How to Get In
Most Air Traffic Controller positions require an associate degree or vocational training. Many community colleges and technical schools offer relevant programs that can be completed in 1–2 years, often with hands-on clinical or lab experience built in.
Get Started Learning
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Work Environment
Structured, offices, data centers, or remote
Independent, focused deep work with periodic team check-ins
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as an Air Traffic Controller involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Air Traffic Controller?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Air Traffic Controller Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Air Traffic Controllers is projected to grow 1.7% from 2025 to 2035, slower than average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·41% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target
- ·26% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does an Air Traffic Controller make?
The median Air Traffic Controller earns $148k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Air Traffic Controller jobs?
Our model puts Air Traffic Controller at 43 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 41% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target; 26% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress.
Is Air Traffic Controller a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 1.7% between 2025 and 2035, which is slower than average. That works out to roughly 2,100 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be an Air Traffic Controller?
Most Air Traffic Controller roles expect an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational certificate rather than a four-year degree.
How long does it take to become an Air Traffic Controller?
Typically one to two years, typically an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational program. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 3 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is an Air Traffic Controller career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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