Air Traffic Controllers vs. Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians: Who Earns More?
Air Traffic Controllerss out-earn Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicianss by $66K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2024. Air Traffic Controllerss land at $144,580 and Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicianss at $78,680. The education gap is real: air traffic controller programs typically require no formal educational credential, while aircraft mechanics and service technician programs require high school diploma or equivalent. Top-paying state for Air Traffic Controllerss is Virginia ($185,890); for Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicianss it's New Jersey ($97,730).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Air Traffic Controllers median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Air Traffic Controllerss or Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicianss?
Air Traffic Controllerss earn more nationally. The median is $144,580 for Air Traffic Controllerss versus $78,680 for Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicianss, a difference of $66K. Per BLS OEWS May 2024.
Which has better job growth, Air Traffic Controllers or Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians?
BLS Employment Projections data is not available for one or both occupations. Check the individual career pages for current outlook figures.
Which requires more education, Air Traffic Controllers or Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians?
Air Traffic Controllers typically requires no formal educational credential. Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians requires high school diploma or equivalent. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Air Traffic Controllerss get paid the most?
Virginia is the top-paying state for Air Traffic Controllerss at $185,890/year, per BLS OEWS May 2024. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Air Traffic Controllers vs. Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Virginia, Air Traffic Controllerss earn $185,890 vs. $80,770 for Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicianss. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.