Director, air traffic controller

What does a Director in air traffic control do? – Tasks and work environment

A Director in air traffic control has overall responsibility for leading and coordinating air traffic management at one or more airports. Tasks include strategic planning, staffing, crisis management, and operational supervision to ensure safe and efficient air traffic. The role involves close collaboration with other management functions, authorities, and airlines. The work environment is characterized by a fast pace, high demands on accuracy and decision-making, and a strong focus on safety and cooperation.

Salary development over time

The salary for a Director in air traffic control has shown a steady increase in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 76,700 SEK per month, which increased slightly to 77 000 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has risen further to 81 400 SEK, representing an increase of approximately 6.2% compared to the previous year. This rise can be linked to increased demand for qualified leadership in air traffic management, as well as the need to retain and attract experienced employees in a sector with high responsibility and safety requirements. The market is also influenced by inflation and general wage adjustments within the transportation sector. The trend indicates that the role is increasingly valued, especially for those with specialist skills and leadership experience.

Director, air traffic controller salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 81 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 62,200 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 88,700 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 490 SEK
• Women: 82 400 SEK/month (102% of men's salary)
• Men: 80 700 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Data varies, but metropolitan regions tend to offer slightly higher salaries.

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a Director in air traffic control begins with comprehensive and specialized training in air traffic management. After basic training and certification, several years of professional experience are required, often complemented by further education in leadership and safety. Formal requirements include technical knowledge and documented leadership ability.

• Basic education: Air traffic control training, typically 2–3 years at post-secondary level
• Certification: Approved air traffic controller license (issued by the Swedish Transport Agency after training and practical experience)
• Leadership training: Internal or external courses in management and organization
• Practical experience: Several years of operational air traffic control experience
• Prerequisites: Good vision, health, and excellent English language skills

Common benefits and compensations

Benefits for a Director in air traffic control often include occupational pension, health insurance, wellness allowances, and opportunities for professional development. Other common compensations include extra vacation days, flexible working hours, and sometimes bonus schemes linked to company performance. Access to corporate health services and support during crises are also common.

Competitions and challenges

The competition for positions as a Director in air traffic control is relatively high, as the number of such leadership roles is limited compared to the total number of air traffic controllers. Challenges include high demands on leadership, stress management, and staying updated on regulations and technical systems. The industry is also affected by changes in the aviation sector, such as digitization and new safety requirements. Because the profession is highly regulated, continuous training and re-certification are necessary. Combining operational experience with strategic thinking is a key success factor.

Tips for aspiring Directors in air traffic control

To succeed as a Director in air traffic control, it is good to develop both analytical skills and a structured work approach early on. Decisiveness and confidence in making quick, well-founded decisions are crucial, especially in pressured situations. Communication skills are important for leading teams and collaborating with various stakeholders in the aviation industry. It is also valuable to show initiative and actively seek further education or leadership roles earlier in your career. Precision and responsibility are qualities appreciated and can increase chances of advancement. Being open to change and new technological solutions creates good conditions for long-term success. Finally, building a strong network within the industry is an advantage, as many leadership roles are filled internally.

Key facts about Director, air traffic controller

• Education level: Post-secondary education (2–3 years) with certification
• Work environment: High-tech and safety-focused, often at airports or control centers
• Work type: Full-time, often shift work and on-call
• Demand: Limited number of positions, but high skills shortage in some regions
• Special skills: Leadership, crisis management, advanced communication

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a Director in air traffic control, opportunities open for advancement within larger airports, corporate leadership roles, or expert positions within aviation authorities. Experience from this position is also valuable for roles in international organizations and consulting. Labour market forecasts from the Swedish Public Employment Service indicate that, due to the profession’s specialist nature and limited data, there is no detailed assessment, but there are signals of a stable demand for leaders in air traffic management. Over the past year, there have been 412 job openings within the profession, indicating some mobility and demand. Long-term, future prospects are influenced by developments in the aviation industry, technological shifts, and international regulations.

Frequently asked questions about Director, air traffic controller

• What is the average salary of a Director, air traffic controller?
  - The average salary for a Director, air traffic controller is 81 400 SEK per month.
• How do salary differences between women and men look?
  - Women earn on average 82 400 SEK and men 80 700 SEK per month, which means women earn 102% of what men do.
• What education is required to become a Director in air traffic control?
  - Post-secondary air traffic control training, certification, several years of experience, and often leadership training are required.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for the profession?
  - The highest salary is 88,700 SEK and the lowest 62,200 SEK per month.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, metropolitan regions generally offer slightly higher salaries than smaller regions.
• What are the future prospects for a Director, air traffic controller?
  - The outlook is stable, but the number of positions is limited and depends on the development of the aviation industry.
• What personal qualities are important in this profession?
  - Leadership, stress resilience, accuracy, and good communication skills are important qualities.