Air Traffic Controller Salary in Alaska
Based on 160+ workers in Alaska
Median Annual Salary (AK)
$71,510
$34.38/hr
vs National Average
$56,947
+25.6% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$44K – $105K
160 employed in Alaska
Air Traffic Controller salary in Alaska averages $66,250 annually, positioning the state as an attractive location for professionals in this field. With approximately 160 air traffic controllers employed throughout Alaska, the median compensation is notably 19% above the national average, reflecting the unique demands and operational requirements of the region's aviation industry.
Several factors influence air traffic controller compensation in Alaska, including experience level, facility type, and shift assignments. Controllers working at major hubs or handling complex airspace typically earn toward the upper range of $98,880, while those at smaller facilities may start around $47,500. Geographic isolation, extreme weather conditions, and the critical nature of Alaskan aviation operations also contribute to competitive salary offerings in this specialized field.
Salary Distribution — Air Traffic Controller in Alaska
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $43,780 |
| 25th percentile | $50,340 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $71,510 |
| 75th percentile | $87,210 |
| 90th percentile | $105,060 |
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 Alaska 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 Alaska vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Alaska) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $60,320 |
| 2023 | $51,800 |
| 2024 | $66,250 |
| 2025 | $71,510 |
| 2026 (projected) | $75,801 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Alaska Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | $60,320 | $53,742 |
| 2023 | $51,800 | $55,720 |
| 2024 | $66,250 | $55,556 |
| 2025 | $71,510 | $56,947 |
| 2026 (projected) | $75,801 | $60,364 |
Air Traffic Controller Salary by Experience Level in Alaska
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $50,340 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $71,510 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $87,210 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $105,060 |
Air Traffic Controller Salary in Other States
Related Air Traffic Controller Salaries in Alaska
How other high-demand occupations in Alaska compare to Air Traffic Controller ($71,510 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Air Traffic Controller | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airline Pilot in AK | $232,140 | +224.6% | $111.61/hr |
| Construction Supervisor in AK | $102,140 | +42.8% | $49.11/hr |
| Plumber in AK | $93,920 | +31.3% | $45.15/hr |
| Electrician in AK | $89,440 | +25.1% | $43.00/hr |
| Automotive Service Technician in AK | $60,840 | -14.9% | $29.25/hr |
| Maintenance and Repair Worker in AK | $60,270 | -15.7% | $28.98/hr |
| Construction Laborer in AK | $58,060 | -18.8% | $27.91/hr |
| Web and Digital Interface Designer in AK | $71,300 | -0.3% | $34.28/hr |
| Instructional Coordinator in AK | $72,320 | +1.1% | $34.77/hr |
| Loan Officer in AK | $72,800 | +1.8% | $35.00/hr |
| Truck Driver in AK | $70,100 | -2.0% | $33.70/hr |
| Public Relations Specialist in AK | $70,050 | -2.0% | $33.68/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do air traffic controllers make in Alaska?
- Air traffic controllers in Alaska earn a median salary of $66,250 per year, or approximately $32 per hour. This is 19.2% higher than the national average for this position.
What is the salary range for air traffic controllers in Alaska?
- Air traffic controller salaries in Alaska range from $47,500 at the lower end to $98,880 at the upper end of the pay scale. The wide range reflects differences in experience, facility type, and seniority.
Is air traffic controller pay better in Alaska than the national average?
- Yes, air traffic controllers in Alaska earn 19.2% more than the national average, with a median salary of $66,250 compared to lower national figures. This makes Alaska one of the better-paying states for this profession.
How many air traffic controllers work in Alaska?
- There are approximately 160 air traffic controllers currently employed in Alaska. This relatively small workforce serves the state's airspace and airports.