How do they match: Air Traffic Controllers

  • Compile information about flights from flight plans, pilot reports, radar, or observations.
  • Direct pilots to runways when space is available or direct them to maintain a traffic pattern until there is space for them to land.
  • Inform pilots about nearby planes or potentially hazardous conditions, such as weather, speed and direction of wind, or visibility problems.
  • Issue landing and take-off authorizations or instructions.
  • Monitor aircraft within a specific airspace, using radar, computer equipment, or visual references.
  • Organize flight plans or traffic management plans to prepare for planes about to enter assigned airspace.
  • Provide flight path changes or directions to emergency landing fields for pilots traveling in bad weather or in emergency situations.

  • Plan flight operations.
  • Meet with coworkers to communicate work orders or plans.