Air Traffic Controller Salary (United States)

United States air traffic controllers typically earn around 130,000 to 145,000 dollars per year, with busy facility controllers above 180,000.

Overview

These are indicative figures drawn from federal wage statistics. Most controllers work for the Federal Aviation Administration, where pay depends heavily on the complexity of the facility, so controllers at busy approach and en route centers earn far more than those at small towers. Applicants must usually start before age 31, complete academy training, and face mandatory retirement at 56. Staffing shortages have meant heavy overtime at many facilities, which adds to earnings but has raised fatigue concerns.