How to become an Air Traffic Controller

£12,000/y

avg. starting salary

Believe that the sky’s the limit? You should become an Air Traffic Controller… Air Traffic Controllers use advanced radar systems and sophisticated communication equipment to help pilots take off and land planes safely, also making sure arrivals and departures are on schedule. By co-ordinating all air traffic effectively, they are able to ensure planes are always at a safe distance apart from each other. They work from control towers, approach control facilities, or en-route centres, depending on the particular air traffic control specialism they’re involved in. These could include, area control, approach, and aerodrome control. Typical duties for an Air Traffic Controller include:

Giving airline pilots take-off and landing instructions
Tracking and monitoring the movement of aircrafts
Arranging aircrafts into the best order of landing
Ensuring all ground traffic is under control
Keeping pilots up to date with important news updates (weather, runway closures etc.)
Effectively managing communications throughout all areas of traffic control

An ability to communicate effectively, work as part of a team, and exhibit a high level of concentration are all essential to becoming a successful Air Traffic Controller. If you’re easily distracted, this role probably isn’t for you. As a large portion of the job is based around quick decisions, you’ll need to be able to think fast in unforeseen circumstances, and have the ability to alter the schedule last-minute to ensure the plane remains safe. You’ll also need to be able to calculate speed, time, and distance accurately, meaning advanced skills in maths are vital. An Air Traffic Controller will also need to be:

A great problem solver
Able to stay calm under pressure
Skilled at using technology
Spatially aware
Able to work flexibly
Physically dexterous

Junior Air Traffic Controller

Up to £12,000

Air Traffic Controller

Up to £50,000

Senior Air Traffic Controller

Up to £100,000

"When I was little, my favourite part of going on holiday was always being at the airport and watching the planes go by. Somehow, I was lucky enough to turn it into a career, and after a total of three years of training, I’m now a fully qualified Air Traffic Controller. The working hours are varied, and the job can be full-on at times (especially if the weather is against you), but I really enjoy it. You even get in on a fair bit of jokes when you’re chatting with some of the pilots, which definitely makes the time go quicker. All in all, it’s safe to say the job definitely keeps me busy, and it’s a great way to combine my love of maths and technology. And, you know, planes."

Get qualified

You’ll need to be over 18 years old, and have at least five GCSEs (grade A-C), including Maths and English to be accepted onto an approved training course, which will allow you to gain an air traffic control license and begin your training.

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