Average Air Traffic Controller Salary

$95,273
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
10%
$48k
MEDIAN
$95k
90%
$172k

The average salary for an Air Traffic Controller is $95,273 in 2025

Base Salary
$48k - $172k
Bonus
$1k - $20k
Profit Sharing
$1 - $18k
Total Pay
$48k - $177k
Is Average Air Traffic Controller Salary your job title? Find out what you should be paid
Use our tool to get a personalized report on your market worth.What's this?
United States (change)
How it works:
1
Enter city & years of experience
2
Add pay factors like skills & education
3
Find your market worth with a report tailored to you
EXPLORE BY:

What is the Pay by Experience Level for Air Traffic Controllers?

What Do Air Traffic Controllers Do?

Find your market worth – how it works:

How do Air Traffic Controllers Rate Their Jobs?

4.4 out of 5
(20)
Highly Satisfied
12Reviews
Based on 20 responses, the job of Air Traffic Controller has received a job satisfaction rating of 4.42 out of 5. On average, Air Traffic Controllers are highly satisfied with their job.

FAQs About Air Traffic Controllers

What is the highest pay for Air Traffic Controllers?

Our data indicates that the highest pay for an Air Traffic Controller is $172k / year

What is the lowest pay for Air Traffic Controllers?

Our data indicates that the lowest pay for an Air Traffic Controller is $48k / year

How can Air Traffic Controllers increase their salary?

Increasing your pay as an Air Traffic Controller is possible in different ways. Change of employer: Consider a career move to a new employer that is willing to pay higher for your skills. Level of Education: Gaining advanced degrees may allow this role to increase their income potential and qualify for promotions. Managing Experience: If you are an Air Traffic Controller that oversees more junior Air Traffic Controllers, this experience can increase the likelihood to earn more.