About the Job

NOC: 2272
Occupation: Air Traffic Control Occupations
Category: Natural and Applied Sciences and Related Occupations

Nature Of Work:

An air traffic controller is often described as one who provides for the safe and orderly flow of air traffic both in the air and on the ground (airport).

Air traffic controllers at area control centres (ACC's) give pilots instructions, air traffic control clearances, and advice regarding flight conditions during the en route portion of their flight. Terminal controllers work in an environment similar to that of en route controllers, but are closely associated with the tower they serve. Airport controllers direct airport traffic so it flows smoothly and efficiently. They give pilots taxi and takeoff instructions, air traffic clearances, and advice based on their own observations and information received from Environment Canada, en route centres, flight services stations, pilots, and other sources.

A flight service specialist assists pilots both before and during flight. In addition to providing information to assist pilots to execute safe and expeditious departures and arrivals at uncontrolled airports, the flight service specialist supports pilots throughout the flight by providing pre-flight weather briefings, flight planning, an en route flight information service, and search and rescue assistance. This rewarding job requires good judgement, constant vigilance, and the ability to communicate effectively.

A flight dispatcher may analyze environmental conditions and assess aircraft for load and fuel capacity and other factors to determine flight routes, brief flight crew on conditions, authorize or cancel flights, and monitor progress and communicate as required during flight.

Skills:

For these occupations, you need good health and eyesight. The candidates who succeed in training are self-confident and mature team players who are highly motivated, decisive, and self-disciplined.

Other Considerations: