Get your Air traffic control ASVAB Score
If you're looking for a challenging and rewarding career in the US Air Force, becoming an air traffic control expert could be a great option for you. As an air traffic controller, you'll be responsible for directing the movement of military aircraft, ensuring their safety and efficient operation. In this guide, we'll explore the requirements and steps to becoming an air traffic control expert in the US Air Force, including the necessary education and training, as well as the skills and qualities you'll need to succeed in this critical role.?
What is Air traffic control in the Air Force?
An Air Traffic Control (ATC) in the US Air Force is responsible for ensuring the safety and efficiency of aircraft operations within their assigned airspace. They communicate with pilots, issue flight clearances, monitor weather conditions, and coordinate with other ATC personnel to ensure that aircraft are separated from each other and follow established procedures. Essentially, they are the eyes and ears of air traffic management, ensuring that aircraft operate safely and smoothly.
Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC) - Air traffic control
The code for a Air traffic control - Air Force Specialty Code: 1C1X1
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ASVAB Qualification Area Minimum Scores
Getting a military role requires meeting a certain minimum Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test score. Air traffic control US Air Force - Qualification Area Minimum Scores - G55
Air Force Qualification Area and corresponding ASVAB Subtests:
G -- general: Verbal expression (WK plus PC) and arithmetic reasoning (AR)
M -- mechanical: Mechanical comprehension (MC), general science (GS) and two times auto and shop information (AS)
A -- administrative: Numerical operations (NO), coding speed (CS) and verbal expression (WK plus PC)
E -- electrical: Arithmetic reasoning (AR), mathematics knowledge (MK), electronics information (EI) and general science (GS)
Requirements to get a Air traffic control US Air Force position
To apply for an Air Traffic Control role in the US Air Force, follow these steps:
1. Meet the basic requirements: To join the US Air Force, you must be a US citizen or legal permanent resident, between the ages of 17 and 39, have a high school diploma or GED, and pass a physical and mental health evaluation.
2. Research available positions: Visit the official website of the US Air Force and browse available air traffic control jobs.
3. Submit your application: Apply for the position you’re interested in by submitting your application online.
4. Pass the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test: The ASVAB is a multiple-choice test that determines your abilities and skills that match different roles in the Air Force.
5. Pass a background check: A background check is required to ensure that you meet the Air Force’s standards for security clearance.
6. Attend Basic Military Training (BMT): If accepted, you will attend BMT where you will learn the fundamentals of military life, including physical training, drill, and basic military knowledge.
7. Attend Technical Training: After BMT, you will attend technical training for the Air Traffic Control role, where you will learn how to manage air traffic and guide pilots through different phases of flight.
8. Get placed in a role: After completing all training, you will be placed in an air traffic control role at a location based on your preference and availability.
Key skills and competencies
Useful skills and competencies required for becoming an Air traffic control expert in the US Air Force include strong communication skills, attention to detail, critical thinking, and the ability to multitask. Air traffic controllers must be able to handle high-pressure situations and make quick decisions to ensure the safety of aircraft and passengers.
Equipment and weapons used by a Air traffic control
Equipment and weapons used in this role include radar systems, radio communications equipment, and various software programs to track and manage air traffic. Air traffic controllers do not handle weapons as part of their job.
How long does it take to become a Air traffic control in the US Air Force
Becoming an Air traffic control in the US Air Force typically requires completion of the Air Traffic Control Apprentice Course, which takes approximately 12-16 weeks. However, additional on-the-job training and experience is necessary to become a fully certified Air traffic control expert, which can take several years.