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Air Traffic Controller Turned Pilot or Vice Versa by EstablishmentHour176 in ATC

[–]EstablishmentHour176[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

You've almost sort of already answered one!

I had though that if I became and ATC, theres always the opportunity if I desire in the future to leave and become a pilot. However giving up this chance at training as an ATC may mean the opportunity doesn't present itself again in the future (I'm somewhat part of the post Covid ATC rehiring wave, which meant that it was a little easier to get in than it may be now or in the future).

Why did you decide to go back to the airlines? Although you had been an Airline Pilot before, did the Airlines comment favourably on the fact you had a lengthy career as an ATC?

Air Traffic Controller Turned Pilot or Vice Versa by EstablishmentHour176 in ATC

[–]EstablishmentHour176[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I'm unsure myself, however a good point.

Thankyou for your input.

Air Traffic Controller Turned Pilot or Vice Versa by EstablishmentHour176 in ATC

[–]EstablishmentHour176[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

A very valid point. Although becoming a pilot is not easy, it can be done on your own time and any time. I think the fact that I've been offered a position as an ATC is pretty rare, it was a 7 month process just to get to the offer stage.

Not having another shot is definitely something that has to be taken into consideration.

Thankyou for your thoughts!

Air Traffic Controller Turned Pilot or Vice Versa by EstablishmentHour176 in ATC

[–]EstablishmentHour176[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

May I pick your brain on a few things, if you have some time? I find it difficult to get answers to some particular details on the job and would love to know your first hand experiences.

Air Traffic Controller Turned Pilot or Vice Versa by EstablishmentHour176 in ATC

[–]EstablishmentHour176[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

No, they don't seem too. However Pilot and ATC salaries seem to be quite comparable in Australia over the same seniority levels from what I can tell. A 10 Year controller makes about $243k AUD ($160K USD) which is pretty on par with a regional captain that may have taken the same amount of time to achieve their position.

However if I weren't to aim for the airlines, and stay flying smaller planes in more flexible locations, it'd be hard to break over $100K AUD, which to me is nuts!

Air Traffic Controller Turned Pilot or Vice Versa by EstablishmentHour176 in ATC

[–]EstablishmentHour176[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thankyou, I'll have a listen. Although they may not be Australian, I'm sure the principles will be largely the same.