Air traffic controllers
🤍 Save CareerAir traffic controllers play a vital role in the US economy, with 24K professionals employed nationwide. The median annual salary is $144,580, with projected growth of 1% through 2034 (Slower than average).
💰 Salary Range
📈 Growth Outlook
➡️ Stable — 1% projected growth🤖 AI Automation Risk
Significant portions of this job could be automated by AI.
🤖AI Impact Deep Dive: Air traffic controllers
🔬 AI Impact Deep Dive: Air traffic controllers
AI Collaboration Score
Measures how much AI tools are used as collaborative assistants in this role (0% = no AI involvement, 100% = AI-intensive workflow)
🔮 Future Outlook
The core work is fundamentally digital and data-driven, involving the monitoring of radar screens and the processing of complex spatial information to ensure aircraft separation. While the high-stakes nature of safety and the need for real-time human communication with pilots provide a buffer, AI and automated systems (like NextGen) are already increasing productivity and handling more traffic per controller, leading to a very low projected growth in human employment.
Analysis based on Microsoft "Working with AI" research (2025), O*NET task data v30.2, and Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational projections. Updated March 2026.
🌅A Day in the Life
🌟Career Outlook & Getting Started
Why It's Promising
With 1% projected growth and a median salary of $144,580, this career offers stable prospects. While the field is specialized, demand remains consistent.
How to Get Started
Entry typically requires associate's degree. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field.
Who Is It For
Anyone interested in air traffic controllers who wants to build a rewarding career in this field.
🎓Majors & Top Schools
❓Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Air traffic controllers make in 2026?▼
The median salary for a Air traffic controllers is $144,580 per year. Entry-level positions start around $86,748, while experienced professionals can earn up to $231,328 depending on location, specialization, and industry.
How do I become a Air traffic controllers?▼
Entry typically requires associate's degree. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field. The typical education requirement is associate's degree.
What degree do you need to be a Air traffic controllers?▼
Most Air traffic controllers positions require associate's degree. However, some professionals enter the field through alternative paths like bootcamps, certifications, or self-directed learning.
What AP courses should I take to become a Air traffic controllers?▼
Check PathLeap for personalized AP course recommendations for Air traffic controllers. The right AP courses depend on your target college major and career specialization.
What does a Air traffic controllers do on a daily basis?▼
As a air traffic controller, your day involves a mix of specialized tasks that require both expertise and adaptability. You work with colleagues, clients, or patients depending on the setting, applying your training to solve real-world problems.
Is Air traffic controllers a good career in 2026?▼
With 1% projected growth and a median salary of $144,580, this career offers stable prospects. While the field is specialized, demand remains consistent. Job growth is projected at 1%, which is declining. The median salary of $144,580 also positions it competitively in the job market.
Will AI replace Air traffic controllerss?▼
Air traffic controllers has an AI automation risk score of 70/100 (High). This career faces significant evolution from AI. However, new specialized roles are emerging that combine domain expertise with AI capabilities.
What kind of person makes a good Air traffic controllers?▼
Anyone interested in air traffic controllers who wants to build a rewarding career in this field. Success in this role also depends on continuous learning and adaptability, especially as the field evolves with new technology and industry trends.
Is Air traffic controllers Right for You?
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