Air Traffic Controller Salary in Kentucky
Based on 290+ workers in Kentucky
Median Annual Salary (KY)
$123,290
$59.27/hr
vs National Average
$56,947
+116.5% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$55K – $163K
290 employed in Kentucky
Air Traffic Controller salary in Kentucky averages $123,290 annually, significantly outpacing earnings in most other professions within the state. With approximately 290 professionals currently employed in this role, Kentucky's air traffic controllers earn substantially more than the typical worker. Salaries in this field range from $54,990 to $163,350 depending on experience and position level, reflecting the specialized nature of this critical profession.
Air Traffic Controller salary in Kentucky is influenced by several key factors, including years of experience, facility type, and shift assignments. Controllers working at major airports or handling complex airspace typically command higher compensation. Additionally, the federal nature of this position means pay scales are structured according to national guidelines, which helps explain why Kentucky controllers earn 116 percent above the national average and maintain competitive wages relative to their counterparts nationwide.
Salary Distribution — Air Traffic Controller in Kentucky
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $54,990 |
| 25th percentile | $61,650 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $123,290 |
| 75th percentile | $159,490 |
| 90th percentile | $163,350 |
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 Kentucky 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 Kentucky vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Kentucky) |
|---|---|
| 2023 | $130,160 |
| 2025 | $123,290 |
| 2026 (projected) | $123,290 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Kentucky Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | $130,160 | $55,720 |
| 2025 | $123,290 | $56,947 |
| 2026 (projected) | $123,290 | $56,947 |
Air Traffic Controller Salary by Experience Level in Kentucky
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $61,650 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $123,290 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $159,490 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $163,350 |
Air Traffic Controller Salary in Other States
Related Air Traffic Controller Salaries in Kentucky
How other high-demand occupations in Kentucky compare to Air Traffic Controller ($123,290 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Air Traffic Controller | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airline Pilot in KY | $350,950 | +184.7% | $168.73/hr |
| Construction Supervisor in KY | $73,490 | -40.4% | $35.33/hr |
| Plumber in KY | $64,160 | -48.0% | $30.85/hr |
| Electrician in KY | $59,720 | -51.6% | $28.71/hr |
| Maintenance and Repair Worker in KY | $46,810 | -62.0% | $22.50/hr |
| Construction Laborer in KY | $45,710 | -62.9% | $21.98/hr |
| Automotive Service Technician in KY | $44,890 | -63.6% | $21.58/hr |
| Nurse Practitioner in KY | $122,870 | -0.3% | $59.07/hr |
| Purchasing Manager in KY | $124,350 | +0.9% | $59.78/hr |
| Human Resources Manager in KY | $121,460 | -1.5% | $58.39/hr |
| Database Administrator in KY | $125,400 | +1.7% | $60.29/hr |
| Physician Assistant in KY | $120,760 | -2.1% | $58.06/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do air traffic controllers make in Kentucky?
- Air traffic controllers in Kentucky earn a median salary of $123,290 per year, or $59 per hour. This is significantly higher than many other professions, reflecting the specialized skills and responsibility required for the role.
Is the air traffic controller salary in Kentucky higher than the national average?
- Yes, Kentucky air traffic controllers earn 116.5% more than the national average. This means the state offers substantially above-average compensation for this profession compared to the rest of the country.
What is the salary range for air traffic controllers in Kentucky?
- Air traffic controller salaries in Kentucky range from a low of $54,990 to a high of $163,350 per year. This wide range reflects differences in experience, facility type, and individual qualifications.
How many air traffic controllers work in Kentucky?
- There are approximately 290 air traffic controllers currently employed in Kentucky. This represents the total workforce for this specialized profession across the state.