Providing information to aircraft about weather conditions.Instructing aircraft to climb or descend and allocating final cruising level.Directing the movement of aircraft en route or at an airport.Keeping radio and radar contact with aircraft.Your tasks may vary depending on whether you’re working as an area, approach or aerodrome controller, but they’ll include: As you progress through the ranks, you can expect to earn anywhere between £46,000 and £50,000. What Can I Expect to Earn as an Air Traffic Controller?Īs a junior ATC you can expect to earn between £17,000 and £21,000. Some of the most important skills you will need to do the job well include the ability to stay calm under pressure, attention to detail, proficient IT skills, strong problem solving skills, excellent troubleshooting skills and communication skills. Getting work as a trainee control will require at least 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) or equivalent, a medical examination, and DBS security clearance.

You’ll complete your training whilst working as a trainee controller. In order to qualify to be an air traffic controller, you’ll need to get an air traffic control licence from the National Air Traffic Services (NATS), which can take around 3 years to train. What Qualifications & Skills Do I need to become an Air Traffic Controller Coordinating with the pilots to help them land, park, and line up for take-off.Managing aircraft as they approach the airport.In the case of emergency, alert airport response staff.Provide pertinent information to pilots, such as runway closures, weather updates as well as other critical information.Control the majority of ground traffic at airports.Monitor and direct the movement of aircraft on the ground through the use of radar and computers.Issue takeoff and landing instructions to pilots.Some of the main responsibilities include: What are some of the key responsibilities of Air Traffic Controllers? Typically, air traffic controllers work within airport traffic control towers, at the terminal or Air Route Traffic Control Centers (ARTCC), to direct all air traffic, and ensure that pilots receive appropriate instructions for taxi, takeoff, and landing. They must work rapidly, with the utmost efficiency, and often work in towers or control facilities. Their primary concern is the safe flight of the aircraft, and are further responsible for managing the flow of aircraft in and out of the airport. Being an Air Traffic Controller is a fast-paced job requiring quick decision making and sound judgement.Īir traffic controllers are responsible for managing communication with pilots and providing assistance in the event of an emergency.

Traffic controllers job