Schooling Required to Become an Air Traffic Controller
- The FAA solicits applications from candidates with an interest in air traffic controller training. The FAA accepts applicants with no prior training as well as candidates with military air traffic control experience who desire to obtain a commercial license. The Air Traffic Collegiate Training program is an FAA-accredited training program that is offered through various colleges and universities around the country. The programs run for two to four years and provide nonengineering aviation degrees or basic training in air traffic control.
- The Air Traffic Basics Course is designed to prepare students for entry-level positions as air traffic controllers. The Air Traffic Basics Course is a five-week qualification training that is offered at the FAA Academy in Oklahoma. During their basic training, students learn to identify important air traffic control concepts such as National Airspace Systems (NAS) and Traffic Management Systems (TMS). Other aspects of the training include introduction to federal aviation regulations, principles of flight, basic navigation and radio and satellite navigation.
- Individuals who are interested in advancing their careers in the air traffic control industry can enhance their training by enrolling in an FAA-approved air traffic control management program. The training is designed to prepare candidates for both air traffic control and management positions in the air traffic industry. The program is a four-year Bachelor of Science training program and includes classroom and air traffic control simulation laboratory instruction. The air traffic control management program was established in 1990 under the Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative (CTI). CTI is designed to support local recruitment of qualified candidates into the aviation field.
- Graduates who successfully complete their training through the Collegiate Training Initiative are eligible to bypass the FAA Air Traffic Basics training. All CTI applicants who seek employment with the FAA must pass the pre-employment training also known as the Air Traffic Selection and Training. The exam is an intensive, eight-hour, computer-based evaluation of a candidate's aptitude to become a successful air traffic controller. Candidates must receive a 70 or higher to pass the pre-employment test. Pre-employment tests are valid for three years.
