How to Become An Air Traffic Controller In The United States
An air traffic controller works out of a control tower, approach control facilities, or route centers where they coordinate air traffic patterns to assure the safety of aircraft and give aircrafts clearance to take off or land safely. According to the federal aviation administration, there are requirements one has to pass to be an air traffic controller in the United States. These are;
- Be a United States citizen
- Be of age 30 or under (on the closing date of the application period)
- Pass medical examination
- Pass security investigation
- Pass FAA air traffic pre-employment tests
- Speak English fluently enough to be understood over communications equipment.
- Have three years of progressively responsible work experience, or a bachelor’s degree, or a combination of post-secondary education and work experience that totals three years.
- Be willing to relocate to an FAA facility based on agency staffing needs.
How long it takes to become an air traffic controller depends on how long it takes for you to take and pass all the appropriate tests. You are required first to have formal education or employment experience, which might include a bachelor’s degree(four years )or related working experience of three years. Preferably you should have both; then, from there, you will need to take more specific steps to become an air traffic controller. These steps are;
- Attend an air traffic collegiate training initiative (AT-CTI) program – the federal administration has collaborated with educational institutions to prepare students to take on their goals of a career in aviation with the administration, such as in air traffic control. Successful completion of the course does not guarantee employment with the administration. It is important to note that due to the federal aviation administration requirement, you must begin your training before you are older than 31 years of age and will face mandatory retirement at the age of 56. However, retired military air traffic controllers may qualify for appointment after reaching 31 years of age
- Pass various assessments for consideration for a federal aviation administration training program –the federal aviation administration provides training and education for anyone interested in aviation safety. Training and testing are critical parts of the FAAs safety mission. They provide, promote, and provide a wide range of training and testing opportunities to everyone from the hobbyist to certificate holders.
- Complete a federal aviation administration training program – your training will vary depending on the branch of aviation you choose to join. These tests and training programs have specific guidelines set by the federal aviation administration. The training can last anywhere from two to four years, teaching you how to read maps, look out for aviation weather patterns, understand federal regulations, and airspace allowances, among other aviation-related information.
- Apply for a job – once you have completed your training, you get the qualifications to start applying for a job. The federal aviation administration offers employment opportunities for individuals with previous air traffic control experience as well as entry-level trainee, air traffic control specialists. It posts separate job vacancy announcements for a limited time throughout the year.