Air Traffic Controller

The practice of directing an aircraft on the ground through controlled airspace and providing services to aircraft in non-controlled airspace is referred to as Air Traffic Control and the professionals involved in this entire process are called Air Traffic Controllers. These professionals supervise the traffic in the air, observe the aircraft, and administer the runway. Providing information to the Pilots about the destination and runway and observing the elevation and speed of the airplane is a significant part of their job. Also it is their responsibility to avert any airplane collision and untoward incident that may cause loss of life and property. Considering the liabilities attached to the job of an Air Traffic Controller, usually candidates with strong technical background are selected for the safe and smooth operations of air traffic. These professionals are selected based on an examination conducted by the Airport Authority of India which includes Medical Test, Voice Test and Written exam.         
 

The most significant task for Air Traffic Control professionals is to put off collisions, systematize, and accelerate the course of air traffic, and to provide information, and work as a support team with the Pilots. These professionals observe the location of the airplane in their respective airspace with the help of radar and keep in touch with Pilots through radio. 

They implement traffic separation rules, to make sure that each aircraft keeps a least amount of empty space. They are also liable for sending alerts to the airport response staff in case of emergency and thus, these professionals need to be highly vigilant and quick decision makers. These professionals make use of radars and technical equipment to help the airplane in the air and synchronize with the other departments to ensure smooth landing and takeoff of the aircraft.

Route to Air Traffic Control Profession

Significant Statistics

• Student should have passed class 10+2 with at least 60% including English
• Airport Authority of India conducts test and candidates only below 27 years of age are eligible to appear
   

Pros

• Candidates with elevated capability for decision making, calculated thinking, and high attentiveness are suitable for this profession 
• Interest and full of enthusiasm in the profession for candidates willing to work in aviation industry
• Feel good factor in working with Pilots and in ensuring safe air traffic movement 

Cons 

• Years of hard work and training is required to excel as an Air Traffic Controller
• Long working hours and stressful work environment 
• A lot of responsibility is attached to the profession as a lot of lives are at risk giving zero chance for error for these professionals