Air traffic controllers earn a median annual salary of $132,250 in the United States as of 2023. Salaries range from $81,000 for entry-level positions to over $180,000 for senior roles. Pay varies based on location, experience, and the type of facility managed.
Average Salary in the U.S.
The average salary for air traffic controllers in the U.S. ranges from $81,000 to over $180,000, depending on experience, location, and job type. According to the FAA and multiple job data sources, controllers earn a median annual wage of $132,250, with starting salaries often beginning around $81,000.
Air Traffic Controller Salary Table (2024–2025)
| Source | Average Salary | Salary Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| ZipRecruiter (2025) | $101,385 | $33,000 – $172,500 | Top earners make up to $159,000 annually in the US. |
| PayScale (2025) | $95,449 | $49,000 – $172,000 | Entry-level to experienced salary range. |
| 123ATC (2024) | $137,380 | $76,190 – $200,990 | Based on FAA specialized pay plan. |
| Career Explorer (Hawaii) | $137,260 | $84,760 – $176,680 | Hawaii state average salary. |
| AviationFile (Global) | Varies by country | Varies widely | Includes US, UK, Canada, Australia, India, France, China, Norway, Brazil, Russia. |
| Career Explorer (US Avg.) | $100,810 | $55,908 – $181,772 | US average salary by state. |
FAA-employed air traffic control specialists typically work in control towers, TRACONs (Terminal Radar Approach Control), or en-route centers that monitor aircraft between airports. The federal government determines pay grades through a system based on the facility’s airspace complexity and traffic volume.
Factors That Influence Salary
Location, experience, job level, and facility type all directly impact air traffic control salaries.
- Geography: Controllers in high-traffic areas like New York, California, and Hawaii earn more due to demand and cost of living.
- Experience: More advanced controllers with 10+ years of service often earn over $150,000.
- Facility Complexity: En-route centers pay more than smaller control towers.
- Overtime and Shifts: Night shifts and weekend duties increase total compensation.
FAA uses a Pay Band System that considers traffic volume and complexity. For example, a controller at a busy airport like Atlanta or Chicago earns significantly more than one at a rural facility. Advanced controllers who guide pilots through congested airspace earn top-tier compensation.
Entry-Level vs. Experienced Salaries
Trainee controllers start around $41,000 during the FAA Academy phase and can reach over $180,000 after three years of service.
- New hires begin with a training phase at the FAA Academy in Oklahoma City. Pay starts around $41,000–$49,000.
- After certification at a facility, pay increases to $70,000–$90,000.
- Experienced controllers managing complex operations often exceed $150,000 annually.
- Controllers with military backgrounds or those who pass the air traffic skills assessment may start at higher levels.
FAA Hiring Process:
- High school diploma required (associate’s degree or military experience preferred)
- Must pass a medical exam, background check, and ATSA test
- Must complete all stages of the training process
Training varies in length but typically includes several phases before a controller is fully certified and assigned to a permanent post.
Salary by Region and State
Air traffic controller salaries vary widely by state, with some earning 20–30% more in high-demand metro areas.
Top-paying states in 2024–2025:
- California: $142,210
- New York: $140,670
- Alaska: $139,520
- Hawaii: $137,260
- Illinois (Chicago): $134,800
Higher pay in places like Chicago O’Hare or Los Angeles International reflects the complexity of the facility’s airspace and workload. Locations with dense traffic and international operations generally support higher salaries.
Cost of living adjustments and locality pay also increase earnings for controllers based in major metro areas.
Federal vs. Contract Towers
FAA-employed air traffic controllers earn significantly more than those working at contract towers.
- Federal Controllers (FAA): Salaries range from $81,000 to $180,000+, with full federal benefits, retirement, and union protections.
- Contract Controllers (Private firms like Serco or Midwest ATC): Salaries average $45,000 to $75,000 with fewer benefits.
Contract towers operate in smaller airports and are staffed by private contractors rather than FAA employees. These facilities handle less traffic and complexity.
The FAA Contract Tower Program allows contractors to manage low-volume facilities at a lower cost to taxpayers, but this directly affects controller wages.
Benefits, Perks & Work-Life Considerations
FAA air traffic control specialists receive extensive benefits, including full retirement, health insurance, paid time off, and job security.
Key benefits include:
- Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching
- Health, dental, and vision coverage
- 20 years of service = early retirement at age 50
- Generous paid leave and sick days
However, shift work, including nights, weekends, and holidays, affects work-life balance. Controllers are often required to work irregular hours and must maintain focus during high-stress situations.
Typical Quesions
Below are common questions we get asked.
How does overtime and shift work affect an air traffic controller’s total annual pay?
Overtime and shift differentials can increase total annual compensation by tens of thousands of dollars. Controllers working nights, weekends, or holidays earn premium pay, and mandatory overtime during staffing shortages boosts income.
Are there salary differences between tower, approach, and en-route air traffic controllers?
Yes. En-route controllers and those at major hubs earn more than tower controllers at small regional airports due to higher workload and complexity.
How does military experience impact starting salaries for civilian air traffic controllers?
Former military air traffic control specialists often start at higher pay bands. The FAA recognizes military experience, offering faster advancement and better starting compensation.
Final Thoughts
Air traffic controllers receive competitive salaries that reflect the critical nature of their work. With a median wage of $132,250 and benefits that support long-term stability, this career offers strong financial rewards. Salaries grow with experience, facility complexity, and location, while federal employment provides superior benefits and job security.
