Costs

How Much Does It Cost to Become an Air Traffic Controller in 2025?

Training to become an air traffic controller is intensive and specialised, making it a costly process. Fortunately, most air navigation service providers cover the full cost of training. This article provides an overview of the costs that applicants may incur before and during training, as well as the typical salaries for trainees.

Pre-Employment Costs

Before commencing their training, applicants must successfully complete a multi-stage recruitment process. All costs incurred are the responsibility of the applicant. These include:

1. Travel and accommodation costs for the assessment
2. Assessment fees
3. Initial health examination
4. Background screening fees

Training Costs

The air navigation service provider typically covers the full costs of the training programme, meaning that trainees are not personally responsible for tuition fees. However, it should be noted that the majority of training contracts include a bond agreement. In the event of a controller's departure from the company prior to the conclusion of a stipulated period, which is typically two to three years, they are obligated to return a proportionate share of the training expenses.

Personal Expenses

Depending on the employer and location, trainees may still be required to cover personal expenses during the training period. Typically, the cost of the following items is the responsibility of the trainee:

1. Relocation expenses to the assigned base
2. Accommodation cost (unless provided)Wor
3. Work attire and equipment, such as a headset

Salary during Training

Air traffic controllers are among the most highly compensated professionals in the aviation industry, and the training programme offers a competitive remuneration package in comparison to other programmes of its kind. Salaries or training allowances vary depending on the employer and location, and trainees often receive a housing allowance or other benefits in addition to the normal salary.

Here are some examples of typical salaries:

1. Deutsche Flugsicherung (DFS, Germany) around $1400/month
2. National Air Traffic Services (NATS, UK) around $3980/month
3. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA, USA) around $2220/month
4. General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA, UAE) around $2720/month

Salaries will increase significantly after completing the training and obtaining full certification.