Travel Tip - How To Become An Air Traffic Controller
Travel
Air traffic controllers are responsible for ensuring the safety and efficiency of air traffic in and around airports. It is a challenging and rewarding profession that requires a high level of skill, attention to detail, and the ability to remain calm under pressure. The movie Pushing Tin does a pretty good job of depicting the stress related to the profession. It is a little over-dramatized, but worth a watch if you are interested in the field.
If you are interested in becoming an air traffic controller, then there are several steps you can take to make your dream an ATC reality.
1. Education and Qualifications
To become an air traffic controller, you need a high school diploma or equivalent qualification. You also need to have completed a college program in aviation, air traffic control, or a related field. A degree in any discipline is also acceptable as long as it includes courses in aviation, math, and physics.
2. Age and Citizenship
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which is responsible for licensing air traffic controllers in the United States, requires candidates to be at least 18 years old and a U.S. citizen.
3. Pass a Medical Exam
Air traffic controllers need to be in good health and pass a medical exam before they can begin training. The FAA requires that candidates meet specific vision and hearing requirements to ensure they can perform their duties effectively.
4. Apply for Air Traffic Control Specialist Position
The FAA periodically posts air traffic control specialist positions on their website. You can submit an application during one of these openings. It is important to check the FAA website frequently, as these job postings may only be open for a short period.
5. Pass the FAA's Air Traffic Skills Assessment (AT-SA) Exam
If your application is accepted, then you will be invited to take the FAA's Air Traffic Skills Assessment (AT-SA) exam. This test assesses your skills in math, memory, spatial reasoning, and multitasking. It is designed to identify candidates with the cognitive abilities necessary to be an air traffic controller.
6. Complete Air Traffic Control Training
If you pass the AT-SA exam, you will be invited to complete an air traffic control training program. This program can take anywhere from two to four months to complete, depending on the facility where you will be working. During this training, you will learn about air traffic control procedures, communication protocols, and safety regulations.
7. Obtain Certification
Once you have completed your air traffic control training, you will need to pass an FAA certification exam to become a licensed air traffic controller. This exam includes a written test, a practical test, and a medical exam.
8. Gain Experience
After obtaining your license, you will need to gain experience working as an air traffic controller. This experience can be gained by working in a control tower, approach control facility, or en route center. The FAA also requires that air traffic controllers participate in ongoing training to maintain their license.
In conclusion, becoming an air traffic controller is a challenging and rewarding profession that requires a high level of skill, education, and dedication. If you are interested in pursuing this career, then it is important to obtain the necessary qualifications, pass the FAA's AT-SA exam, complete air traffic control training, obtain certification, gain experience, and participate in ongoing training. With determination and hard work, you can achieve your dream of becoming an air traffic controller. In the meantime, thanks for reading and I'll see you in line at security.
FAQs
Q: How long would it take to become an air traffic controller?
A: The process of becoming an air traffic controller can take anywhere from two to four years. This includes completing a college program in aviation or air traffic control, passing the FAA's Air Traffic Skills Assessment (AT-SA) exam, completing air traffic control training, obtaining certification, and gaining experience.
Q: Is it hard becoming an air traffic controller?
A: Yes, becoming an air traffic controller is a challenging process. It requires a high level of skill, attention to detail, and the ability to remain calm under pressure. Candidates must meet strict vision and hearing requirements, pass the FAA's AT-SA exam, complete air traffic control training, obtain certification, and gain experience working in the field.
Q: Can you become an air traffic controller after age 31?
A: Yes, the FAA has no age limit for becoming an air traffic controller. However, candidates must meet all of the other qualifications, including education, medical requirements, and passing the FAA's AT-SA exam.
Q: Where do air traffic controllers work?
A: Air traffic controllers work in control towers, approach control facilities, and en route centers. They are responsible for ensuring the safety and efficiency of air traffic in and around airports.
Q: What qualifications do you need to become an air traffic controller?
A: To become an air traffic controller, you need a high school diploma or equivalent qualification, completed a college program in aviation, air traffic control, or a related field, or have a degree in any discipline that includes courses in aviation, math, and physics. You also need to be at least 18 years old, a U.S. citizen, pass a medical exam, and pass the FAA's AT-SA exam.
Q: How much money does an air traffic controller make?
A: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for air traffic controllers in the United States was $124,540 as of May 2020. Salaries can vary depending on experience, location, and level of responsibility. Air traffic controllers may also receive additional compensation for working overnight shifts, weekends, or holidays.
