Salary guide
Air Traffic Controller
- Average salary
- £25,000 – £100,000
- Working hours
- 37.5 hours/week
TransportAviation
- UK airspace is among the busiest in the world
Other names this job is known by
- ATCO
- Airspace Controller
Key responsibilities
- Monitor and direct aircraft movements
- Provide pilots with instructions for safe take-off, landing, and flight paths
- Use radar and radio communication
- Respond to emergencies
- Maintain detailed records
Skills and qualifications required
- 5 GCSEs (A*-C/9-4 including English and maths)
- Pass NATS selection and training (approx. 18 months)
- Excellent concentration and decision-making
- Clear communication skills
- UK/EU citizenship or right to work
Promotional job opportunities from this role
- Senior Controller
- Supervisor
- Training Manager
- Operations Manager
How to get the job
- Apply to NATS or MOD
- Pass aptitude tests and interviews
- Complete training at NATS college
Learn to grow in this role
Practical Job Near Me guides chosen for people in this kind of job.
- Industry Guides2 min read
Logistics and Supply Chain: Entry Roles That Grow
Logistics and supply chain keep the UK moving—from warehouse pickers to planners—with entry roles that lead to coordinator and manager careers.
- Industry Guides2 min read
Aerospace and Aviation Support Careers
Aerospace and aviation support careers—MRO, ground ops, logistics, and quality—keep UK air travel and defence supply chains safe and on schedule.
- Career Growth2 min read
Starting Your Job Search With a Plan
A clear weekly plan beats endless scrolling and helps you track real progress.
