Watching blips on radar screens
can make it seem like playing a video game…
but each number on screen
represents an aircraft –
and the safety of flights depends on the careful,
decisive guidance of air traffic controllers.
These professionals typically work
in the airport control tower to direct the flow
of planes and passengers—
whether on the ground, taking off,
or coming in for a landing.
Safety is their main priority—
but air traffic controllers also
try to minimize delays.
Each controller is part of a nationwide system,
responding to weather, mechanical difficulties,
and all the small things that can cause
big problems for pre-arranged flight plans.
They must follow procedures to the letter,
adapt to new circumstances continuously,
and communicate clearly.
Most air traffic controllers in the United States
are trained at the Federal Aviation
Administration Academy;
trainees must start training before age 31,
have U.S. citizenship,
and pass several evaluations
including an assessment of their ability
to cope with mental stress over long hours.
An aviation background is a plus.
With the unusual characteristic of
mandatory retirement at age 56,
and typically excellent pay and benefits,
this can be an attractive career
that demands concentrated focus.
Like the intricate cogs of a Swiss watch,
air traffic controllers are part
of an elegant choreography that makes
air travel safe and speedy.