Air traffic controller

What does an air traffic controller do? – Tasks and work environment

An air traffic controller is responsible for monitoring and directing air traffic to ensure that aircraft travel safely and efficiently through the airspace. The tasks include giving instructions to pilots via radio, managing flight routes, coordinating takeoffs and landings, and making quick decisions in unexpected situations. The work environment is characterized by a fast pace, advanced technical systems, and high demands on concentration and teamwork. The work is usually performed in control centers or towers and often involves shift work, which requires both mental and physical endurance.

Salary development over time

The salary for air traffic controllers has shown a clear positive trend 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. In 2024, the salary has risen significantly to 81 400 SEK per month, which is an increase of approximately 5.7% compared to the previous year. This increase reflects both a higher demand for qualified air traffic controllers and the industry's need to retain competent personnel in a safety-critical operation. The salary increase can also be linked to inflation and collective bargaining negotiations, where air traffic controllers as a group often have strong bargaining positions due to their specialized knowledge. The trend indicates that the profession's attractiveness as a career choice continues to strengthen, especially considering the responsibilities and demands of the role.

Air traffic controller salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 81 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 62,200 SEK/month (male, public sector, high school education)
• Highest salary: 88,700 SEK/month (female, private sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Hourly wage (average): 490 SEK
• Women: 82 400 SEK/month
• Men: 80 700 SEK/month
• Women earn: 102% of what men do

Education and qualifications

To work as an air traffic controller, specialized training combining theoretical studies and practical training is required. The basic training is provided in Sweden by LFV (Swedish Air Navigation Services) and is highly selective, including cognitive and psychological assessments. After completing training, certification is required before full authorization is granted, and ongoing further training is an integral part of the profession.

• Formal education: Air traffic controller training via LFV, approximately 2–2.5 years
• Certification: Required after completing training and practical experience
• Practical training / Trainee: Extensive practice at airports or control centers
• Prerequisites: Complete upper secondary education, very good knowledge of English
• Tests: Cognitive and psychological tests during admission
• Continuing education: Ongoing further training and assessment

Common benefits and compensations

Air traffic controllers often enjoy attractive benefits such as extra vacation days, favorable pension schemes, wellness allowances, and health check-ups. Shift work can be compensated with overtime premiums and scheduling that considers recovery. Some employers also offer subsidized meals and opportunities for skills development.

Competition and challenges

The air traffic control profession is known for its competition for training spots and positions, especially since the training is free of charge and the number of places is limited. The selection process is rigorous, and the requirements are high even at the admission stage, meaning only a few candidates are accepted each year. The job involves significant responsibility and pressure, where mistakes can have serious consequences, demanding high resilience and decision-making skills. At the same time, technological advancements are changing the role, with increasing demands for digital competence and continuous adaptation to new systems. Working hours can also be challenging, with irregular shifts and night work affecting private life.

Tips for aspiring air traffic controllers

To succeed as an air traffic controller, it is good to prepare mentally for a profession where accuracy and stress tolerance are crucial. Training multitasking and concentration skills provides an advantage for admission tests. Good collaboration and communication skills facilitate both training and daily work, where teamwork with colleagues and pilots is central. An analytical mindset and the ability to make quick decisions under pressure are also highly valuable. Getting accustomed early to irregular hours and prioritizing recovery can reduce the risk of stress-related issues. Finally, a strong interest in technology and continuous learning is essential, as the profession is characterized by constant development and change.

Key facts about air traffic controllers

• Education level: Specialized post-secondary education (2–2.5 years)
• Work environment: Control towers and control centers with high safety focus
• Work form: Shift work, often with night and weekend shifts
• Demand: Very limited training spots, competition for positions
• Special skills: Advanced multitasking and language skills (English)

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, controllers can specialize in different traffic management areas, such as instructor, training manager, or safety manager. Technological development also opens opportunities for roles in system development and security work within authorities and airlines. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, no separate forecast exists for air traffic controllers due to limited data, but there is a steady need for qualified personnel in the transport sector. The job market is small, and competition for available positions is high, with 412 job openings reported in the latest survey. The future outlook for air traffic controllers is considered favorable, especially for those willing to further educate themselves and take responsibility for technological development and safety.

Frequently asked questions about air traffic controllers

• What does an air traffic controller earn?
  – The average salary is 81 400 SEK per month.
• How do you become an air traffic controller?
  – By completing LFV's air traffic controller training, which includes both theory and practical components, and passing admission and certification tests.
• What are the gender differences in salary?
  – Women earn on average 82 400 SEK and men 80 700 SEK per month, meaning women earn 102% of men's salary.
• What are the biggest challenges in the profession?
  – High stress levels, significant responsibility, and irregular working hours are some of the main challenges for air traffic controllers.
• Are there good future prospects?
  – The forecast is stable, but competition for training spots and positions is very fierce.
• What are the career opportunities?
  – After a few years, controllers can advance to roles such as instructor, training manager, or safety manager.
• What is required to pass the training?
  – Strong cognitive and psychological qualities, excellent multitasking ability, and good language skills, especially in English.