Air Force AFSC · Aviation
1C1X1 Air Traffic Control
Overview
An Air Traffic Control specialist manages the flow of aircraft through all aspects of flight on the ground and in the air. The specialist monitors multiple variables and makes quick decisions to maintain the safety and efficiency of air traffic at bases and in airspace.
Minimum clearance: Secret
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Skill levels: 1C111 helper · 1C131 apprentice · 1C151 journeyman · 1C171 craftsman
Core Skills
- real-time systems monitoring
- situational awareness
- airspace management
- procedural communication
- multitasking under pressure
- risk assessment and mitigation
- checklist and SOP adherence
- radar and sensor interpretation
- decision-making in time-critical environments
- team coordination
Civilian Software & Tools
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Adobe Acrobat
- Microsoft Access
- Microsoft Word
- SAP software
Civilian Career Paths
- Air Traffic Control
- Commercial Aviation
- Aviation Management
- Network Operations
Training & Development
Getting Started
- Accredited Airport Executive (A.A.E.)
- Air Traffic Control Tower Operator (CTO)
- Aircraft Dispatcher
- Certification in Risk Management Assurance (CRMA)
Career Growth
- Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)
- Certified Weather Observer
- Project Management Professional (PMP)
- Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit (RR)
What the Work Involves
- 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.
- Provide flight path changes or directions to emergency landing fields for pilots traveling in bad weather or in emergency situations.
- Transfer control of departing flights to traffic control centers and accept control of arriving flights.
- Alert airport emergency services in cases of emergency or when aircraft are experiencing difficulties.
Related Occupations
- Commercial Pilots
- Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers
- Railroad Conductors and Yardmasters
- Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors
Typical preparation for these civilian roles: vocational training or an associate degree.
Formerly Known As (Legacy)
Retired codes that converted into 1C1X1. Each legacy page documents the cited history.
Equivalent Roles in Other Branches
Descriptions may be summarized for clarity. Verify all information with your branch career counselor or official military documentation before making career decisions.
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