Air Traffic Controllers

SOC Code: 53-2021

Air Traffic Controllerss inform pilots about nearby planes or potentially hazardous conditions, such as weather, speed and direction of wind, or visibility problems. This career typically requires medium preparation (1-2 years). With an AI-proof score of 60.3/100, this role has moderate resilience to automation. Key skills include Complex Problem Solving, Active Listening, Speaking.

AI-Proof Score: 60.3High
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Median Salary

$144,580

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Job Growth

1.2%

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Training Time

Medium preparation (1-2 years)

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Job Zone

Zone 3 / 5

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Training Cost

~$15,000

Key Skills

  • Complex Problem Solving
  • Active Listening
  • Speaking
  • Monitoring
  • Judgment and Decision Making
  • Critical Thinking
  • Reading Comprehension

Common Tasks

  • Inform pilots about nearby planes or potentially hazardous conditions, such as weather, speed and direction of wind, or visibility problems.
  • Issue landing and take-off authorizations or instructions.
  • Transfer control of departing flights to traffic control centers and accept control of arriving flights.
  • Provide flight path changes or directions to emergency landing fields for pilots traveling in bad weather or in emergency situations.
  • Alert airport emergency services in cases of emergency or when aircraft are experiencing difficulties.

Why AI-Proof?

  • Requires hands-on physical presence and dexterity
  • Demands human empathy, judgment, and trust
  • Operates in unpredictable, variable environments
  • Social and regulatory barriers to full automation
Air Traffic Controllers — AI-Proof Careers