How to Become an Air Traffic Controller

Becoming an air traffic controller sounds glamorous, but it's a long haul to get there and only the top percentile will make it through. The industry is comprised of 90% civilian jobs, but is regulated by the government through the FAA with tough screening and medical requirements. Although this line of work can be very stressful, the air traffic controller is well compensated in return. In 2006, the median salary was $117,000 for a 40 hour work week, with option for increase from overtime and accrued vacation days. Senior controllers do even better.

To be eligible to apply, the applicant must be at least 18 years old at the time of examination, and may not exceed 30 years of age. Those applying at age 31 may be accepted if they have prior experience as an air traffic controller, but are still subject for review. The mandatory retirement age is 56, with an exception to those who have not completed their 20 years of service. Such employees may stay and finish their term, but must separate on the last day of the month at the end of the 20 years.

Meeting the FAA standard entry requirements entails a security background check similar to any government job. However, the applicant's medical records must reflect not only a sense of wellness, but careful attention is paid to certain medical conditions. The applicant must have 20/20 vision in both eyes, little to no hearing loss, have a medical history free of cardiovascular problems, those with high blood pressure are subject to a special review, applicant must have no history of neurological disorders that include convulsing, no diabetes, no record of substance abuse, and any indication of psychiatric treatment is grounds for immediate disqualification.

Qualified applicants must posses an undergraduate degree, preferably in the science of air traffic control, but, unrelated majors are also considered. In addition to the academia, a comprehensive air traffic controller examination is issued by the FAA , which you may study for independently at your own pace.

Many technical colleges and trade schools offer a comprehensive training degree in air traffic controlling, but you should check beforehand that they are FAA approved. The students should take every step necessary to best prepare themselves for the rigorous exam, even by taking a refresher courses available at most bookstores online. After completing the pre-employment test from the FAA, and meeting the additional requirements of age, medical, security and drug testing, the applicant is ready to take the exam. Top scores are those is the 99 to 100%, so be prepared for a battle to win the position. All things considered, becoming an air traffic controller is one of the toughest jobs you will ever fight for, but can be one of the most rewarding as well. Top pay, maximum benefits, honor, prestige, and early retirement. Applicants will fight to the bloody finish for this job, but somebody's going to win, and it might as well be you.

www.airtrafficcontrollerexam.com/
www.bls.gov/oco/ocos108.htm
www.faa.gov/about/office_org/headquarters_offices/ahr/jobs_careers/occupations/atc/