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Air Traffic Controller Training in Massachusetts

Cities in Massachusetts with Aviation Schools:

  • Agawam
  • Arlington
  • Attleboro
  • Barnstable
  • Beverly
  • Boston
  • Braintree
  • Brockton
  • Brookline
  • Cambridge
  • Chelsea
  • Chicopee
  • Concord
  • Everett
  • Fall River
  • Fitchburg
  • Framingham
  • Franklin
  • Gloucester
  • Haverhill
  • Holyoke
  • Lawrence
  • Leominster
  • Lexington
  • Lowell
  • Lynn
  • Malden
  • Marlborough
  • Medford
  • Methuen
  • Needham
  • New Bedford
  • Newton
  • Northamn
  • Norwood
  • Peabody
  • Pittsfield
  • Quincy
  • Revere
  • Salem
  • Somerville
  • Springfield
  • Taunton
  • Waltham
  • Watertown
  • Wellesley
  • West Springfield
  • Westfield
  • Weymouth
  • Woburn
  • Worcester

Air Traffic Controller Training in Massachusetts

Air Traffic Control School in Massachusetts

Air Traffic Controller Schools in Massachusetts are actively recruiting students to replace the thousands of current controllers fromMassachusetts whose retirement is rapidly approaching. Now is the time to start your air traffic controller training inMassachusetts. Aviation Schools Online offers a complete list of air traffic controller schools nearMassachusetts.

Air Traffic Controller quick facts - Nearly all air traffic controllers are employed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), an agency of the Federal Government.

Replacement needs will continue to account for most job openings nearMassachusetts, reflecting the large number ofMassachusetts air traffic controllers who will be eligible to retire over the next decade. Competition to get into FAA training programs is expected to remain strong; however, graduates of Air Traffic Controller programs fromMassachusetts have good job prospects. Air traffic controllers aroundMassachusetts earn relatively high pay and have good benefits.

Research Careers in Air Traffic Control Here! Do you have what it takes to become an air traffic controller inMassachusetts? These pages will help you find out. Air Traffic Control jobs pay well and are one of the toughest positions to earn. Start out by doing some research.

Air Traffic Control Career - Where Can I Work?

While aircraft and pilots may steal the show when it comes to aviation, air traffic controllers are an absolutely essential element of the aviation industry. After you're hired as an air traffic controller, you'll go to an FAA Academy where you'll spend twelve weeks learning the basics of the ATC system, regulations, and equipment, plus much more. Students who graduated from an AT-CTI program are allowed to skip the first five weeks of training because they already covered the material in their college coursework.Without their highly-skilled eyes watching over and keeping pilots from running into each other, flying would harder than it already is.

If you're considering an air traffic control career, chances are you already know this, but what you may not know is there are several places air traffic controllers work. Once you complete your training, you can work as a tower, TRACON, or En-route controller.
Tower

Of all the career paths available to air traffic controllers fromMassachusetts, this is probably the one most people picture. These controllers are generally located at the airport in the tower if there is one. They spend their days and nights overseeing operations at the airport level. They control local weather reporting and issuing clearances for taxi, takeoff, and landing. In short, tower controllers control the airport.

Air Traffic Controller Salary Info - How Much Do Air Traffic Controllers in Massachusetts Make?

U.S. Air traffic controllers make a good living and have excellent benefits. According to a 2010 study by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, most Air traffic controllers average $110,000 per year in salary, with some controllers making less and some making more.

According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the starting salary for new controllers was $37,070 in 2010. Controllers' salaries increase as they complete each new training phase.

According to the FAA, controllers who have already completed on-the-job training had an average annual salary of $118,000 in 2010. Get more information about air traffic controller jobs here.

Air Traffic Controller Benefits

As an air traffic controller fromMassachusetts, you can expect excellent benefits. Health insurance and life insurance are standard, and controllers receive 13 to 26 paid days for vacation and 13 days of paid personal time per year. Besides the great pay, controllers have excellent retirement options too.

For example, air traffic controllers can retire at age 50 with far fewer years in service than other Federal employees, or they can extend their time to age 56 for an even better retirement package. However, if you work for a contract tower or flight service station, do a little research because those entities may operate with different benefits packages. Read more about air traffic controller jobs.

Terminal Approach Control

Terminal approach control, or TRACON, handle everything near the airport. They are usually located in the same facility as the tower controllers, but they don't handle traffic on the ground. TRACON handles every aircraft within a certain range--both inbound and outbound flights.

They may see traffic for a specific field or, as is more common in larger cities, multiple fields. These controllers are primarily concerned with sequencing and spacing aircraft for safe arrivals and departures.

En-route

Last but not least, en-route controllers handle all the airspace between major metropolitan areas. They typically work in dedicated facilities that are much larger than airport towers known as "centers." The center controllers work together to handle all traffic in specific regions by relying on long-range radar and radio services.

Once an aircraft is near its destination, the center controller will hand it off to approach control, who in turn will sequence the aircraft before handing it off to the tower controllers who will issue the landing clearance.

Air traffic controllers are an essential element of the aviation formula. They allow pilots to focus on flying their aircraft by providing weather services and helping pilots maintain separation in the sky. While the job may not come with as much glory as of the pilot, air traffic controllers are the linchpin that keeps the entire system safe and efficient.

FAA - A History of Airplane Structures Facts for Massachusetts

After WWII, the development of turbine engines led to higher altitude flight. The need for pressurized aircraft pervaded aviation. Semi monocoque construction needed to be made even stronger as a result. Refinements to the all-metal semi-monocoque fuselage structure were made to increase strength and combat metal fatigue caused by the pressurization-depressurization cycle.

Aerodynamics and the Laws of Physics

Air has no force or power, except pressure, unless it is in motion. When it is moving, however, its force becomes apparent. A moving object in motionless air has a force exerted on it as a result of its own motion. It makes no difference in the effect then, whether an object is moving with respect to the air or the air is moving with respect to the object. The flow of air around an object caused by the movement of either the air or the object, or both, is called the relative wind.

Air Traffic Controller Training in Massachusetts - Where Do I start?

Air traffic controllers in Massachusetts play a vital role in modern aviation. From providing up to date weather information to keeping planes from getting too close, air traffic control is an exciting and necessary career. If you're considering becoming an air traffic controller inMassachusetts, you must go through a multi-step process that begins early.

Specifically, those training for an air traffic control career must be younger than 30 unless they already have experience as an air traffic controller (such as through the military). From there, you must go to college, apply for an ATC job, and attend the FAA training academy.

For Air Traffic Controller Training in Massachusetts Attend College or University

While not totally essential, the easiest way to begin a career as an air traffic controller is to go to college. There are numerous FAA-approved schools nearMassachusetts offering training through the Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI) that will help you meet the minimum requirements for applying for an ATC opening with the FAA.

Once you have completed your two-year or four-year degree, you should receive a letter of recommendation from your school and apply for an ATC job.

If you've already gotten a degree or you're switching careers, you must have either progressively responsible full-time work experience or college study to qualify. Specifically, you need three years of work, four years of college, or some combination of the two to satisfy the minimum requirements.

Where You'll Work as an Air Traffic Controller

As an air traffic controller inMassachusetts, you can expect to work in one or all of these four areas:

At the airport - these controllers work at what's called the "tower" even though you may or may not actually be located in the tower. Tower controllers are responsible for local airport operations including reporting weather, issuing takeoff clearances, controlling aircraft on the ground, issuing runway assignments, handling all arriving and departing traffic, and above all, ensuring that all of these aircraft maintain a safe distance from each other at all times.

Near the airport - Terminal "approach" control, or TRACON for short, handles all inbound and outbound traffic in a specific area near an airport, or a group of airports. A good example is that most big cites have TRACON services that handle all aircraft in the general vicinity of the metropolitan area.

TRACON controllers make sure all aircraft are properly sequenced and spaced for safe arrivals and departures from all airports in the entire area.

En route - Between major metropolitan areas are vast expanses of airspace. "Center" controllers handle all traffic in these areas and rely on long-range radar and radio services to maintain contact with, and separation for, all aircraft under their control.

Flight Service Stations (FSS) - Flight service stations are regional offices that supply vital flight planning, weather, en route, communication, and navigation information via radio to pilots already airborne, and via telephone and computer to pilots planning flights on the ground.

Sometimes flight service specialists (people who work in an FSS) will help other ATC personnel by relaying radio messages to pilots who cannot talk to other ATC controllers because of current location and altitude.

Air Traffic Controller Requirements

Air traffic controllers fromMassachusetts must be good multitaskers, with the ability to make quick decisions efficiently. Most of the time, controllers are "working" several aircraft simultaneously, and are responsible for giving the pilots correct information via radio, making sure that the aircraft are not too close to each other (separation), and all the while, ensuring the efficient flow of traffic into and out of the controller's sector. Learn more about air traffic controller jobs.

Apply for an Air Traffic Controller Job in Massachusetts

Once you've met education or work experience requirements, you must pass an exam. The computer-based pre-employment exam requires about 8 hours to complete and is only offered by the FAA. Typically, there are more applicants than test slots, but AT-CTI applicants in good academic standing are guaranteed an opportunity to take the exam.

Once you've passed the exam, you are technically eligible for an air traffic controller job nearMassachusetts, unfortunately, you must then undergo an extensive background check and drug testing. It's safe to say, the FAA doesn't let just anyone work ATC.

Attend FAA Air Traffic Controller Training Near Massachusetts

Finally, once you're hired, the FAA will send you to Air Traffic Controller training for 12 weeks of intensive training on the ATC system, regulations, and equipment. Thankfully, if you're a graduate of an AT-CTI program, you may be able to bypass the first five weeks of training.

Once you've graduated from the academy, you will receive an assignment to a real air traffic control facility for an additional 2 to 4 years of on-the-job-training. If you make it through all that training, you're all set for one of the most fulfilling careers available today.

As you can tell, air traffic controller careers are not for the faint of heart. The training is extensive, but it has to be because ATC is a high-stakes career. If you think you've got what it takes, now is the time to start training for your air traffic controller career.

Air Traffic Controller Career Center in Massachusetts

An air traffic controller's primary responsibility is to "maintain separation" between all types of aircraft. Other responsibilities include aiding the swift and efficient movement of aircraft to and from airports and across great distances en route. Finally, air traffic controllers assist pilots in emergency situations.

Air traffic controllers typically work for the U.S. Government and are employed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), although some controllers work in what are called "contract" towers where air traffic control (ATC) services are awarded to private companies. If you would like to begin training to become an air traffic controller, start now.

You must be 30 years old or less to apply for a job with ATC. Learn more about air traffic controller training.

Air Traffic Controller Salary Info - How Much Do Air Traffic Controllers in Massachusetts Make?

U.S. Air traffic controllers fromMassachusetts make a good living and have excellent benefits. According to a 2010 study by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, most Air traffic controllers average $110,000 per year in salary, with some controllers making less and some making more.

According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the starting salary for new controllers was $37,070 in 2010. Controllers' salaries increase as they complete each new training phase. According to the FAA, controllers who have already completed on-the-job training had an average annual salary of $118,000 in 2010. Get more information about air traffic controller jobs here.

Helicopter Fun Facts for Boston

The heavier the rotor blades the more stable their speed will be due to inertia. With a low-inertia system, the student will have to react very quickly to a simulated engine failure or the simulated emergency becomes a real emergency. In the R22, the student and instructor have 1.6 seconds to act after a simulated engine failure. If neither lowers the collective and enters an autorotation within that 1.6 seconds, both are likely to die.

Fun Helicopter and Airplane Facts for Boston

Flight Instructor Facts for Boston All of the tallest objects in a given area are clearly listed on a pilot's map. The student must be educated in the dangers of coming into contact with power lines and antennas as well as any emergency action that must be taken if incidental contact is made with one of these objects.

Aviation History for Brockton and Fun Facts for Brockton

Helicopter Training Facts: Most pilots develop a physical fitness regime during training to help them build the muscle strength required for this role. Maintaining a high degree of personal fitness also reduces the residual physical stress and strain of maintaining a fixed position.

Fun Helicopter and Airplane Facts for Brockton

Helicopter Pilot's License for Brockton All pilots begin with a student certificate. Eligibility starts at 14 years old for balloon or glider pilots. To fly planes, applicants must be at least 16. The student certificate has many restrictions. Students can't carry passengers, nor can they fly solo until they gain flight experience, prove cockpit proficiency and pass the written exam.

Aviation History for Cambridge and Fun Facts for Cambridge

The Airline Transport Pilot's License (ATPL(H)) This is the senior license to which many professional pilots will aspire, and requires 1000 hours total flight experience of which 250 hours must be as a pilot in command. Additionally, for an ATPL(H) to be issued the candidate must possess a valid Instrument Rating (IR) and have completed at least 70 hours of instrument flight time together with 350 hours of multi crew and multi engined helicopter experience! Integrated Training

Fun Helicopter and Airplane Facts for Cambridge

Helicopter Pilot's License for Cambridge The FAR lays out three medical certificate levels. All require good hearing; a vision check; mental, neurological, and cardiovascular health; no substance abuse problems; and no diabetes. Student, recreational and private pilots need only a third-class certificate. Pilots intending to become commercial pilots should begin with the required second-class certificate. Major airline pilots need a first-class certificate, which requires the most medical fitness.

The nearest local airport closest to Concord, MA is Logan International Airport. In addition, there is Laurence G. Hanscom Field, Hanscom Field Civil Air Terminal, and Bedds NDB BE 332.

Aviation Training History and Facts for Fall River

Helicopter Training Facts: In helicopter pilot training, there are a series of high stress scenarios that students must work through. The ability to make good decisions under pressure, commitment to the safety of others, dedication, and emotional strength are all requirements of the job.

Aviation Factoids and Figures and Fun for Fall River

Training and preparing over 3000 pilots and maintenance technicians every year, Altus AFB is one of the most important military facilities established in Oklahoma. It is located only 6 km away from Altus

Robinson Helicopters: The R22 Beta II incorporates a Lycoming O-360 four-cylinder, carburetor-equipped engine fueled with 100L grade aviation gasoline. This 145 hp engine is derated to 131 hp for five minutes at takeoff and 124 hp for continuous operation. A powerful engine, a lightweight steel-tube airframe, and aerodynamic shape gives the R22 a cruise speed of up to 90 kts and an average fuel consumption of only 7-10 gallons per hour.

Aviation History for Lowell and Fun Facts for Lowell

Whirly-Girls History: Jean Ross Howard Phelan, Whirly-Girl #13, founded Whirly-Girls in 1955. In hopes of developing an organization where female pilots could share information and camaraderie, she was one of 13 charter members representing women helicopter pilots from France, Germany and the United States. As of 2011, there are over 1700 registered members representing 44 countries. Whirly-Girls is an official affiliate member of the Helicopter Association International.

Fun Helicopter and Airplane Facts for Lowell

Pilot ratings remove flying restrictions. An instrument rating says that a pilot doesn't need visual references to fly, and can instead rely solely on a plane's instruments. It's required for airline transport pilots, though private and commercial pilots also commonly earn it. Without a multi-engine rating, pilots can fly only single-engine planes. Commercial pilots need the multi-engine rating for employment.

Aviation Training History and Facts for Lynn

Helicopter Training Facts: In helicopter pilot training, there are a series of high stress scenarios that students must work through. The ability to make good decisions under pressure, commitment to the safety of others, dedication, and emotional strength are all requirements of the job.

Helicopter History for Lynn

Helicopter Pilot's License for LynnCommercial pilots must be at least 18 with 190 or more flight hours logged through flight school. Otherwise, applicants need 250 hours, including 100 solo hours and 40 hours flown cross-country. The FAR allows commercial pilots to accept pay for their services.

Aviation History for New Bedford and Fun Facts for New Bedford

Helicopter Training Facts: The pass rate on many helicopter pilot examinations is between 75 percent and 80 percent, due to the level of responsibility and risk associated with this career. As a result, there is a significant amount of repetition involved in the training program.

Fun Helicopter and Airplane Facts for New Bedford

Helicopter Pilot's License for New Bedford A recreational certificate allows pilots to carry one passenger. Among its restrictions, this certificate limits pilots to daytime flights of less than 50 miles. Pilots must be at least 17 to take the test and prove proficiency to a flight instructor who endorses the applicant's logged flight hours.

Aviation History for Quincy and Fun Facts for Quincy

Flight Instructor Facts for Quincy Often, an established and licensed helicopter pilot will decide to become an instructor. The additional training to become an instructor is given by a certified helicopter flight instructor.

Helicopter History for Quincy

Helicopter Pilot's License for QuincyPrivate pilot certificates allow pilots who are 17 and older to command single-engine aircraft and carry passengers night or day. Eligibility includes 40 flight hours, 20 of them solo. If attending flight school, pilots need 35 on-the-ground training hours, with another 35 in the air, 15 of those hours flown solo.

Aviation History for Springfield and Fun Facts for Springfield

The Commercial Pilot's License (CPL(H)) This is the standard professional license, and the one a pilot will hold after successful completion of a recognized training course under either the JAA modular or integrated systems.

Fun Helicopter and Airplane Facts for Springfield

Helicopter Pilot's License for Springfield Federal Aviation Regulations, or FAR, require all pilots to be trained, pass tests, accrue flight hours, and secure medical clearances. Licensing involves earning a student, recreational, private, commercial or airline transport pilot certificate through a written exam and a minimum number of flight hours. Along with certificates, pilots also earn expertise ratings for instruments, various flight scenarios and plane types. Without these ratings, a pilot can only fly in limited situations, no matter what certificate he holds.

Helicopter Fun Facts for Worcester

The engineer behind the R22, Frank Robinson, stated repeatedly that he did not design the R22 as a trainer and did not want people using it as a trainer, suggesting that they use the more expensive R44 instead (it has about 4 seconds of rotor inertia instead of 1.6 seconds). However, flight schools using the R44 could generally not compete with those using the R22 (a brand-new student can tell the difference between $200/hour and $400/hour, but he or she probably can't understand the practical consequences of lower rotor inertia). Thus the R22 continues to be used at flight schools around the world and its low-inertia rotor system and lack of power reserve result in frequent accidents during practice autorotations.

Fun Helicopter and Airplane Facts for Worcester

Pilots License: A recreational pilot taking a short daytime trip in a small plane shoulders less responsibility than a 747 pilot ferrying passengers at night across an ocean. Recognizing this, the Federal Aviation Administration dictates increasingly stringent pilot licensing requirements according to passenger responsibility, plane complexity and the purpose of the flight.