Becoming an Air Force Air Traffic Controller: A Challenging yet Rewarding Career
Becoming an Air Force air traffic controller is a challenging and competitive process, but for those who are passionate about aviation and want to serve their country, it can be a highly rewarding career. Air traffic controllers play a critical role in ensuring the safe and efficient movement of aircraft, and the Air Force is always looking for highly skilled and dedicated individuals to join their team. Here are 7 ways to become an Air Force air traffic controller:
Meet the Basic Requirements
To be eligible to become an Air Force air traffic controller, you must meet certain basic requirements. These include:
- Being a U.S. citizen
- Being between the ages of 17 and 39
- Having a high school diploma or equivalent
- Scoring well on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test
- Passing a physical examination
- Having good vision, with a minimum visual acuity of 20⁄40 in each eye
🚨 Note: Meeting the basic requirements does not guarantee selection as an air traffic controller. The selection process is highly competitive, and only the most qualified candidates are selected.
Enlist in the Air Force
To become an air traffic controller, you must first enlist in the Air Force. You can do this by visiting a recruiter or enlisting online. Once you have enlisted, you will be given the opportunity to choose your career field, including air traffic control.
Attend Basic Military Training
After enlisting, you will attend Basic Military Training (BMT) at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas. BMT is a 7-week course that teaches you the basics of being an Air Force member, including physical training, first aid, and military protocol.
Attend Air Traffic Control School
If you are selected to become an air traffic controller, you will attend the Air Force’s Air Traffic Control School at Keesler Air Force Base in Mississippi. This school is 7-9 months long and teaches you the skills and knowledge you need to become a certified air traffic controller.
Get Certified
To become a certified air traffic controller, you must pass a series of exams administered by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). These exams test your knowledge of air traffic control procedures, weather, and aircraft performance.
Gain Experience
Once you have completed air traffic control school and become certified, you will be assigned to an air traffic control facility where you will gain experience and build your skills. This is an important part of becoming a qualified air traffic controller, as it allows you to apply what you have learned in a real-world setting.
Advance in Your Career
As you gain experience and build your skills, you may have opportunities to advance in your career. This can include becoming a supervisor or instructor, or specializing in a particular area of air traffic control, such as radar or tower control.
| Rank | Time in Service | Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| Airman | 0-4 years | Perform routine air traffic control duties, such as clearing aircraft for takeoff and landing |
| Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) | 4-12 years | Supervise and train junior air traffic controllers, perform complex air traffic control duties |
| Senior NCO | 12+ years | Lead teams of air traffic controllers, develop and implement air traffic control procedures |
Becoming an Air Force air traffic controller requires dedication, hard work, and a passion for aviation. By following these 7 steps, you can start your journey towards a challenging and rewarding career in air traffic control.
To sum it up, becoming an Air Force air traffic controller requires meeting the basic requirements, enlisting in the Air Force, attending Basic Military Training, attending Air Traffic Control School, getting certified, gaining experience, and advancing in your career. With persistence and determination, you can achieve your goal and start a rewarding career in air traffic control.
What is the average salary for an Air Force air traffic controller?
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The average salary for an Air Force air traffic controller varies based on rank and experience. However, the average annual salary for an air traffic controller is around 60,000-80,000.
How long does it take to become an Air Force air traffic controller?
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The length of time it takes to become an Air Force air traffic controller varies depending on individual circumstances. However, on average, it takes around 2-3 years to complete the necessary training and become certified.
Is it difficult to become an Air Force air traffic controller?
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Yes, it is challenging to become an Air Force air traffic controller. The selection process is highly competitive, and the training is rigorous. However, for those who are passionate about aviation and willing to put in the effort, it can be a highly rewarding career.
