The role of an Air Traffic Controller in the UK is both critical and highly rewarding. As the aviation industry continues to prioritize safety and efficiency, the demand for skilled air traffic controllers remains strong. From bustling airports in London to key airspace hubs in Manchester and Edinburgh, employers are seeking highly trained professionals, offering competitive salaries and exceptional opportunities for career growth in this high-stakes field.
Air traffic controller salary
Base pay £40K – £66K/yr
£51K/yr average base pay
The estimated salary for a Air Traffic Controller is £51,286 per year. This number represents the median, which is the midpoint of the ranges from our proprietary Total Pay Estimate model and based on salaries collected from our users. The “Most Likely Range” represents values that exist within the 25th and 75th percentile of all pay data available for this role.
The “Most Likely Range” reflects values within the 25th and 75th percentile of all pay data available for this role. Glassdoor salaries are powered by our proprietary machine learning model, which utilises salaries collected from our users and the latest government data to make pay predictions.
What do Air traffic controller earn
How much does an Air traffic controller make in United Kingdom?
£65,727/yr
Highest paying cities for Air traffic controller near United Kingdom
- Swanwick £136,171 per year
6 salaries reported - Huntingdon
£105,527 per year
7 salaries reported - Cambridge
£86,206 per year
6 salaries reported - Inverness £71,160 per year
5 salaries reported - Southampton £61,828 per year
14 salaries reported - London £54,769 per year
5 salaries reported - Darlington £51,508 per year
10 salaries reported - Cranfield £36,975 per year
5 salaries reported - Liverpool £35,157 per year
8 salaries reported
What’s on Quora?
What is the salary and benefits for an air traffic controller?
Top Answer
As of my last update in August 2023, the salary and benefits for air traffic controllers can vary significantly based on factors such as location, experience, and the specific agency they work for. Here’s a general overview:
Salary
- Median Salary: The median annual salary for air traffic controllers in the United States was approximately $130,000.
- Entry-Level Salary: Entry-level positions typically start around $70,000 to $80,000 per year.
- Experienced Controllers: More experienced controllers, especially those in high-traffic areas or at major airports, can earn upwards of $180,000 or more annually.
Benefits
Air traffic controllers typically receive a comprehensive benefits package, which may include:
- Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision insurance options.
- Retirement Plans: Access to federal retirement plans, including the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Paid Time Off: Vacation days, sick leave, and paid holidays.
- Training and Continuing Education: Opportunities for professional development and training to maintain certification.
- Shift Differentials: Additional pay for working nights, weekends, and holidays.
Working Conditions
Air traffic controllers often work in high-stress environments and may work irregular hours, including nights and weekends. The job requires strong communication skills, quick decision-making abilities, and the capacity to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
Overall, the combination of salary, benefits, and job stability makes air traffic control a desirable career for many.