Salary of an Air Traffic Controller
Average Salary of an Air Traffic Controller in 2025
Air traffic control offers high pay in aviation and doesn’t need a college degree. This demanding career offers excellent pay for managing aircraft safely through busy skies. Knowing your value as an air traffic controller is crucial in the competitive job market of 2025.
This guide covers real salary data from government sources and major job platforms. You’ll discover controller salaries based on experience, which countries pay the best, and how federal jobs stack up against contract positions.
We'll cover common questions about overtime pay, benefits, retirement packages, and tips to boost your earnings as an air traffic controller.
What's the Average Salary of an Air Traffic Controller in the USA?
$115,000 per year (Average)
This figure comes from analyzing multiple reliable sources across the industry.
US News says Air Traffic Controllers made an average of $136,790 in 2023. In 2025, PayScale reports a lower average of $95,376.
Glassdoor reports $98,321 per year, and Jobted shows $92,200 gross per year. The latest data show that the national average for these major platforms is about $115,000 a year.
Air traffic controller salaries are strong this year.
They have seen slight increases. This is due to ongoing staffing shortages at airports across the country. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) says that skilled controllers can earn as much as $200,000 a year. This shows that the field still has room to grow.
Air Traffic Controller Salary Key Metrics 2025
Average salary: $115,000 from major job platforms. However, government data show that experienced controllers earn about $136,790.
Salary range: Federal Controllers (FAA) earn between $81,000 and $180,000. In contrast, Contract Controllers make about $45,000 to $75,000. The wide range reflects the difference between federal and private positions.
Salary by experience: Analysis from major job boards shows that junior air traffic controllers in the USA earn around $81,000 annually in federal positions. Mid-level professionals make between $115,000 and $130,000. Senior controllers can earn over $180,000.
75th percentile: Top earners at major airports such as Atlanta (ATL) and Chicago O'Hare (ORD) earn median salaries above $130,000. Experienced controllers can even hit $200,000.
Air Traffic Controller Salary Regional Comparison
Location and employment type dramatically affect air traffic controller earnings. FAA positions pay more and provide better benefits than contract tower jobs. International opportunities differ greatly depending on a country's aviation demand and living costs.
Here's how salaries compare across different countries:
Air traffic controllers in Canada earn about 138,700 Canadian dollars a year ($104,850 USD). In Australia, controllers earn around $118,000, making it competitive with US salaries.
The UK averages £46,281 per year ($58,100 USD), which is a notable difference compared to North American rates.
Australia provides great pay and a high quality of life for good value. The USA is appealing for federal jobs. It offers great benefits and job security.
6 Tips to Grow Your Salary as an Air Traffic Controller
1. Target Federal FAA Positions: Federal Controllers make $81,000 to over $180,000. They also receive full benefits. In contrast, contract positions average $45,000 to $75,000. Federal jobs offer better pay, retirement, and job security.
2. Work at Major Hub Airports: Controllers at busy airports, such as Atlanta and Chicago O'Hare, make over $130,000 on average. High-traffic facilities pay premium rates for handling complex operations.
3. Gain Experience and Seniority: Experienced controllers can make as much as $200,000 a year, based on BLS data. Each year of service typically brings automatic pay increases through government pay scales.
4. Get More Certifications: Controllers with certifications on various radar and tower equipment are worth more. Approach control and terminal radar certifications can increase earning potential by 10-15%.
5. Consider High-Paying International Markets:
Australia pays about $118,000 for controllers.
Some Middle Eastern countries offer tax-free salaries over $150,000 for experienced professionals.
6. Maximize Overtime Opportunities: Air traffic control provides a lot of overtime pay. This is especially true during busy travel times and when there are staff shortages. Many controllers earn 20-30% additional income through overtime shifts.
FAQs About Air Traffic Controller Salary
What is the average salary of an Air Traffic Controller before or after taxes?
All salary figures mentioned are gross annual salaries before taxes. Federal controllers also receive comprehensive benefits, including health insurance and retirement plans.
Does the average salary of an Air Traffic Controller include overtime pay?
No, base salary figures don't include overtime. Many controllers make extra money by working overtime shifts. This is common during busy travel times and when there are staffing shortages.
How much do federal Air Traffic Controllers make compared to contract controllers?
Federal Controllers earn $81,000 to $180,000+ while Contract Controllers average $45,000 to $75,000. Federal positions offer much better pay and benefits.
What benefits do Air Traffic Controllers receive beyond salary?
Federal controllers receive full federal benefits, retirement, and union protections. This includes health insurance, paid time off, and pension plans.
Can Air Traffic Controllers work part-time?
Most air traffic control jobs need full-time commitment. This is because the work is critical. However, some facilities offer flexible scheduling within full-time requirements.
Do Air Traffic Controllers get paid more for working nights and weekends?
Yes, federal controllers receive shift differential pay for evening, night, and weekend work. This can add several thousand dollars to annual earnings.
How long does it take to reach the largest Air Traffic Controller salary?
Federal controllers usually hit top pay after 15-20 years. They get regular raises based on performance and time in grade.
All pay information is current as of 2025. Data comes from different global salary surveys and government stats, 2025.
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