Flight Data Operator

What does a Flight Data Operator do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A Flight Data Operator is responsible for collecting, processing, and distributing flight data to air traffic controllers, pilots, and other key personnel in air traffic management. The work involves monitoring and updating aircraft movements, coordinating information on flight times, routes, and weather conditions, and ensuring all data is accurate and available in real-time. The role requires high precision, the ability to handle complex information, and good communication skills. The work environment is often technologically advanced and characterized by a high pace, where accuracy and speed are critical for flight safety.

Salary Development Over Time

The salary of a Flight Data Operator has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 76,700 SEK per month, followed by a slight increase to 77 000 SEK in 2023. Between 2023 and 2024, there was a more noticeable rise, with the average salary increasing to 81 400 SEK, which is approximately a 5.7% increase over one year. This salary trend reflects both increased demand for qualified personnel in air traffic management and a general rise in industry wages. Notably, women in the profession now earn more on average than men, which is uncommon in technical fields. Factors such as high technical competence, specialized education, and a pressured work environment contribute to the relatively high salaries in the field.

Flight Data Operator Salary – Complete 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 earn: 82 400 SEK/month (102% of men's earnings)
• Men earn: 80 700 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Not specified

Education and Qualifications

To work as a Flight Data Operator, a post-secondary education in aeronautical engineering, traffic management, or related fields is usually required. Many employers also require specific certifications and experience from the aviation industry or similar technical roles. The educational pathway combines theoretical studies with practical training and often internal training provided by the employer.

• Post-secondary education: 3 years or more, often in aeronautical engineering or traffic control
• Certifications: Specific industry certificates may be required
• Internship/Trainee: Common for new hires
• Prerequisites: High school diploma with a technical or science focus
• Advice for choosing: Seek programs offering both theory and practical training in air traffic management

Common Benefits and Compensation

In addition to the base salary, benefits such as overtime pay for irregular hours, extra vacation days, wellness allowances, and pension contributions are often offered. In some cases, educational support, insurance, and compensation for shift work may also be provided depending on the employer and employment type.

Competition and Challenges

The competition for positions as a Flight Data Operator is relatively high, as the number of training places and available jobs is limited. Since the profession requires extensive specialized knowledge and precision, the selection process is often rigorous. Technological changes, digitalization, and automation impose high demands on continuous skills development. At the same time, the high responsibility for flight safety means workload can be heavy, especially during disruptions or busy periods. The lack of regional salary data makes it difficult to determine if competition varies geographically, but the overall demand for qualified personnel in air traffic management remains stable.

Tips for Aspiring Flight Data Operators

To succeed as a Flight Data Operator, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with a strong sense of responsibility. Precision is crucial when handling flight data, so practice working methodically and maintaining high quality even under time pressure. Good communication skills facilitate cooperation with colleagues and flight personnel, especially when quick decisions are needed. Flexibility and resilience to stress are important qualities, as the work environment often involves shift work and varying workloads. Pursue education that offers both theory and practical training in air traffic management, and be prepared to continuously upgrade your skills to meet technological advancements. Engagement in industry organizations and networks can also provide valuable contacts and increase employment opportunities. Finally, showing interest in flight safety and technical solutions already during training is advantageous.

Key Facts about Flight Data Operator

• Educational level: Post-secondary education, at least 3 years
• Work environment: Technologically advanced and fast-paced, often shift work
• Work setting: Office environment within air traffic management
• Demand: 412 available jobs in 2024
• Gender salary gap: Women earn 102% of men's salaries

Career Paths and Future Outlook

After three to five years as a Flight Data Operator, there are opportunities to advance to senior roles within air traffic management, such as senior operator, trainer, or system manager for flight data. Specialization in areas like safety analysis or technical development is also possible. The Employment Service’s forecasts for air traffic controllers do not provide an exact assessment for Flight Data Operators, but the steady demand for qualified personnel and the large number of available jobs suggest good future prospects. Technological development and automation may change job tasks, but the need for specialist skills and human oversight remains. The profession’s high salary level and requirement for specialization make it attractive for individuals with the right education and experience.

Frequently Asked Questions about Flight Data Operator

• What does a Flight Data Operator earn?
  - The average salary is 81 400 SEK per month, with variations between 62,200 SEK and 88,700 SEK depending on experience and employer.
• How do you become a Flight Data Operator?
  - Post-secondary education in aeronautical engineering or traffic control, along with internships and certifications, are required to work in the profession.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn an average of 82 400 SEK, while men earn 80 700 SEK, meaning women have 102% of men's salary.
• What does the job market look like?
  - There are 412 available jobs in the profession according to current statistics, but no exact future forecast due to limited data.
• What are the working hours?
  - Work often involves shift work, including evenings, nights, and weekends, to cover air traffic control needs around the clock.
• What benefits are offered?
  - Common benefits include overtime pay, wellness allowances, extra vacation, and pension contributions.
• What educational background is required?
  - At least a three-year post-secondary education in aeronautical engineering, traffic management, or related fields is recommended.