Air Traffic Controller Salary in Alabama
State-level salary data from BLS OES and H-1B filings
Median Annual Salary (AL)
$78,590
$37.78/hr
vs National Average
$56,947
+38.0% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$63K – $83K
Air Traffic Controller salary in Alabama averages $78,270 annually, positioning the state as an attractive market for professionals in this critical field. With approximately 120 employed air traffic controllers in Alabama, this figure represents a significant 41% premium over the national average, reflecting the specialized nature of the work and regional demand for skilled personnel.
Several factors influence air traffic controller compensation in Alabama, including facility type, years of experience, and shift schedules. Controllers working at busier airports or those managing complex airspace typically earn toward the higher end of the $59,660 to $81,820 range. Federal employment status, certifications, and cost-of-living adjustments also play important roles in determining individual salaries across the state's aviation facilities.
Salary Distribution — Air Traffic Controller in Alabama
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $62,870 |
| 25th percentile | $76,400 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $78,590 |
| 75th percentile | $80,540 |
| 90th percentile | $83,290 |
Top-Paying Industries for Air Traffic Controller (U.S.)
Which industries pay Air Traffic Controllers the most — nationwide figures (industry-level data is not available by state). Air Traffic Controllers in Alabama tend to follow these industry patterns.
| Industry (U.S.) | Median Salary | Employed (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|
| Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services | $103,820 | — |
| Manufacturing | $88,420 | 150 |
| Health Care and Social Assistance | $70,590 | 160 |
| Government (excl. schools, hospitals & USPS) | $60,850 | 4K |
| Transportation and Warehousing | $49,820 | 10K |
Source: U.S. BLS OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures (not state-specific).
Historical Salary Trend — Air Traffic Controller in Alabama vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Alabama) |
|---|---|
| 2023 | $46,940 |
| 2024 | $78,270 |
| 2025 | $78,590 |
| 2026 (projected) | $78,911 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Alabama Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | $46,940 | $55,720 |
| 2024 | $78,270 | $55,556 |
| 2025 | $78,590 | $56,947 |
| 2026 (projected) | $78,911 | $57,180 |
Air Traffic Controller Salary by Experience Level in Alabama
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $76,400 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $78,590 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $80,540 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $83,290 |
Air Traffic Controller Salary in Other States
Related Air Traffic Controller Salaries in Alabama
How other high-demand occupations in Alabama compare to Air Traffic Controller ($78,590 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Air Traffic Controller | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airline Pilot in AL | $136,990 | +74.3% | $65.86/hr |
| Construction Supervisor in AL | $64,120 | -18.4% | $30.83/hr |
| Plumber in AL | $58,670 | -25.3% | $28.21/hr |
| Electrician in AL | $55,690 | -29.1% | $26.77/hr |
| Automotive Service Technician in AL | $45,640 | -41.9% | $21.94/hr |
| Maintenance and Repair Worker in AL | $43,630 | -44.5% | $20.98/hr |
| Construction Laborer in AL | $36,900 | -53.0% | $17.74/hr |
| Personal Financial Advisor in AL | $77,990 | -0.8% | $37.50/hr |
| Art Director in AL | $77,220 | -1.7% | $37.13/hr |
| Credit Analyst in AL | $79,970 | +1.8% | $38.45/hr |
| Registered Nurse in AL | $77,080 | -1.9% | $37.06/hr |
| Statistician in AL | $76,400 | -2.8% | $36.73/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do air traffic controllers make in Alabama?
- Air traffic controllers in Alabama earn a median salary of $78,270 per year, or approximately $38 per hour. This is significantly higher than many other professions, reflecting the specialized skills and responsibility required for the role.
What is the salary range for air traffic controllers in Alabama?
- Air traffic controller salaries in Alabama range from $59,660 at the lower end to $81,820 at the higher end. This range reflects differences in experience, certifications, and facility complexity.
How does Alabama's air traffic controller salary compare to the national average?
- Alabama air traffic controllers earn 40.9% more than the national average, with a median of $78,270 compared to the national median. This above-average compensation reflects Alabama's important role in the national airspace system.
How many air traffic controllers are employed in Alabama?
- There are currently 120 air traffic controllers employed in Alabama. This represents the total workforce in the state for this specialized profession.