Air Traffic Controllers
What is an Air Traffic Controller?
Air Traffic Controllers (ATCs) are professionals responsible for the safe and efficient movement of aircraft in the airspace and at airports. They coordinate the flow of air traffic to ensure that aircraft are properly spaced for takeoffs, landings, and in-flight navigation. ATCs provide instructions and guidance to pilots through radio communication, using radar and other technological systems to monitor aircraft positions and movements. Their work is critical in preventing collisions and managing the complexities of air travel, which involves various aircraft types, weather conditions, and flight paths. Air Traffic Controllers typically work in control towers, en route centers, or terminal radar approach control facilities, and they must maintain a high level of concentration and composure while managing multiple aircraft simultaneously. The role demands rigorous training, adherence to strict regulations, and proficiency in communication, problem-solving, and multitasking to ensure safety and efficiency in the aviation industry.
Tasks
- Inform pilots about nearby planes or potentially hazardous conditions, such as weather, speed and direction of wind, or visibility problems.
- Issue landing and take-off authorizations or instructions.
- Transfer control of departing flights to traffic control centers and accept control of arriving flights.
- Provide flight path changes or directions to emergency landing fields for pilots traveling in bad weather or in emergency situations.
- Alert airport emergency services in cases of emergency or when aircraft are experiencing difficulties.
Technology Skills
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Spreadsheet software
- Microsoft Excel
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Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
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Flight control software
- Direct-to-tool software
- En route descent advisor EDA
- Multi-center traffic management advisor McTMA
- Traffic management advisor TMA software
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Expert system software
- Advanced technologies and oceanic procedures ATOP
- Automated radar terminal systems ARTS
- Center TRACON automation systems CTAS
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Electronic mail software
- Microsoft Outlook
Tools Used
- Aircraft guidance systems
- Radarbased surveillance systems
- Aircraft communication systems
- Two way radios
- Aircraft navigation beacons
Knowledge
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Transportation
Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
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English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
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Education and Training
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
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Public Safety and Security
Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
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Customer and Personal Service
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
Skills
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Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
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Speaking
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
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Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
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Judgment and Decision Making
Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
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Complex Problem Solving
Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Abilities
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Problem Sensitivity
The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.
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Oral Comprehension
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
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Oral Expression
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
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Selective Attention
The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.
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Deductive Reasoning
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
Education
How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?
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High school diploma or equivalent
or: GED, High School Equivalency Certificate
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Post-secondary certificate
Awarded for training completed after high school (for example, in Personnel Services, Engineering-related Technologies, Vocational Home Economics, Construction Trades, Mechanics and Repairers, Precision Production Trades)
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Bachelor's degree
Work Activities
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Making Decisions and Solving Problems
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
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Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events
Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
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Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
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Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings
Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
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Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
Detailed Work Activities
- Notify others of emergencies, problems, or hazards.
- Communicate with others to coordinate vehicle movement.
- Coordinate flight control or management activities.
- Respond to transportation emergencies.
- Direct vehicle traffic.
Work Interests
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Conventional
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.
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Realistic
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
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Enterprising
Work involves managing, negotiating, marketing, or selling, typically in a business setting, or leading or advising people in political and legal situations. Enterprising occupations are often associated with business initiatives, sales, marketing/advertising, finance, management/administration, professional advising, public speaking, politics, or law.
Job Outlook
Projected salary and job growth
$76190.0 - $200990.0
New job opportunities are likely in the future. : Average
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.