Air Traffic Controllers earn $101,380 median salary: what to know in 2025
The median annual salary for air traffic controllers and airfield operations specialists hit $101,380 in 2024, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That works out to roughly $49 per hour. The typical range for the job is wide: from $42,000 at the 10th percentile to $203,670 at the 90th. The mean wage sits at $113,100.
How much Air Traffic Controllers and Airfield Operations Specialists earn
Half of all workers in this occupation earn between about $73,000 and $140,000. The top 10% make over $203,670. The bottom 10% earn under $42,000. Pay varies by employer, location, and experience.
Pay by state
BLS does not publish state-by-state data for this occupation, so I cannot name the highest- or lowest-paying states from official sources. In general, controllers working at large facilities in high-cost areas (like NYC, Chicago, or California) tend to earn more, while those at smaller towers or in rural regions earn less. Check OEWS data for specific state figures when available.
How to become Air Traffic Controllers and Airfield Operations Specialist
The path is tightly controlled by the FAA. Most controllers come from one of three routes: completing an FAA-approved Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI) program, having prior experience in a related occupation (often military air traffic control), or passing the FAA's off-the-street hiring bid when it opens. You must be a U.S. citizen, under age 31 (with some exceptions), pass a medical exam, security clearance, and the AT-SA aptitude test. Entry-level jobs at smaller towers or as airfield operations specialists may require an associate's degree in aviation or a related field, plus a driver's license and airport security clearance.
- Enroll in an AT-CTI program at a community college or university (associate's degree minimum).
- Apply through USAJOBS when the FAA opens a hiring window (typically once a year).
- Pass the AT-SA aptitude test and a medical exam (FAA Class II or III).
- Complete 12–18 months of paid training at the FAA Academy in Oklahoma City.
- For operations specialists, a degree in aviation management or related field, plus 2 years of airport experience, can substitute.
Job outlook
BLS did not project growth for 2024–2034, likely due to a small, specialized workforce. The occupation is stable – openings come mainly from retirements and transfers. With 37,700 jobs nationwide, competition for spots is fierce. Candidates who already hold an FAA control tower operator certificate or have military experience have the edge.
Frequently asked questions
What license or certification do I need to become an air traffic controller?
You need to earn an FAA Control Tower Operator (CTO) certificate after passing FAA Academy training. Some positions require an Air Traffic Control Specialist (ATCS) certification. Airfield operations specialists may need an airport security badge and a state driver's license.
How long does it take to become an air traffic controller?
The process takes 2–4 years on average. Two years for an AT-CTI degree, then about 1–2 years of FAA Academy and on-the-job training. Some trainees wash out during training.
Do air traffic controllers get paid overtime?
Yes. Many controllers work overtime due to shift coverage and mandatory rotating schedules. Some earn 15–30% above base pay in overtime, pushing total compensation higher.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Air Traffic Controllers and Airfield Operations Specialists data.