Working Conditions for Air traffic controllersControllers work a basic 40-hour week; however, they may work additional hours for which they receive overtime pay or equal time off. Because most control towers and centers operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, controllers rotate night and weekend shifts. During busy times, controllers must work rapidly and efficiently. Total concentration is required to keep track of several planes at the same time and to make certain that all pilots receive correct instructions. The mental stress of being responsible for the safety of several aircraft and their passengers can be exhausting for some persons. More information on Air traffic controllers from The U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook Overview of Air traffic controllers occupation Number of Air traffic controllers in the U.S. Salary and earnings for Air traffic controllers Working conditions for Air traffic controllers Significant points for Air traffic controllers Training requirements for Air traffic controllers Labor Information Home | Occupational data by city | Search Rainforests | Madagascar | What's new |