How does air traffic control actually work?
Air traffic controllers monitor the location of aircraft in their assigned airspace by radar and communicate with the pilots by radio. To prevent collisions, ATC enforces traffic separation rules, which ensure each aircraft maintains a minimum amount of empty space around it at all times.
Is air traffic control a hard job?
Air traffic controllers have one of the most stressful jobs out there and can often involve making life or death decisions under extreme pressure. Even though the path to becoming an air traffic controller isn’t as long or difficult as trying to become a doctor or lawyer, it is by no means easy.
Is air traffic control a high paying job?
The national average annual wage of an air traffic controller is $120,830, according to the BLS, well over double the e average annual salary for all occupations, $51,960.
Why do air traffic controllers have to retire at 56?
Almost universally, trainee controllers begin work in their twenties and retire in their fifties. This is due to an FAA requirement that trainees begin their training at the Academy no later than their 31st birthday, and face mandatory retirement at age 56.
How many hours a week do air traffic controllers work?
Working hours Air traffic controllers usually work between 37 and 40 hours a week, but this is spread out over days, nights, weekends and public holidays. Air traffic control has to be manned 24 hours a day, so shift work is used to ensure there is always cover.
What is the age limit for air traffic controller?
All air traffic controllers must hold an Air Traffic Control Tower Operator Certificate or be appropriately qualified and supervised as stated in Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Part 65. They must be at least 18 years old, fluent in English, and comply with all knowledge and skill requirements.
What are the duties of an air traffic controller?
Duties of an Air Traffic Controller. Air traffic controllers regulate air traffic either within an airport’s airspace or air traffic between airports. They communicate weather changes, visibility issues, wind conditions and nearby aircraft to pilots, using radar, computers or visuals to monitor aircraft in the assigned airspace.
How many hours a day does an air traffic controller work?
Working hours. Air traffic controllers usually work between 37 and 40 hours a week, but this is spread out over days, nights, weekends and public holidays. Air traffic control has to be manned 24 hours a day, so shift work is used to ensure there is always cover.
What is the job description of an air traffic controller?
Air Traffic Controller Job Description. Air Traffic Controllers are typically employed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). They work within the National Airspace System (NAS), coordinating the movement of air traffic. They direct planes and regulate airport traffic.
What exactly does an air traffic controller do?
Keeping an eye out. Air Traffic Controllers (ATCs) are popularly known as the group who sit in a high tower over the airport,wearing headsets,and keeping an eye out