IQ Required for Air Traffic Controller
Air Traffic Controller professionals typically score between 107 and 127 on standardized IQ tests, with an average of 117 (High Average).
117
High Average
107–127
Typical range
$138,556
Per year
4%
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Cognitive Domain Emphasis
Different professions demand different cognitive strengths. Here is how the cognitive demands break down for Air Traffic Controller professionals.
About Air Traffic Controller
Air traffic controllers coordinate aircraft movements in airspace and on the ground to maintain safe separation and efficient flow. The role demands exceptional spatial reasoning, rapid pattern processing under extreme time pressure, and clear verbal communication with pilots.
The cognitive profile for this role emphasizes logical reasoning (30% of the cognitive demand) and pattern recognition (30%). With an average IQ of 117, Air Traffic Controller professionals fall in the high average range of cognitive ability, reflecting the intellectual demands of the role. See what this score means with our IQ Percentile Calculator.
Salary Breakdown
Compensation for Air Traffic Controller professionals varies significantly with experience, location, and specialization.
Entry Level (10th %ile)
$72,000
Median Salary
$138,556
Experienced (90th %ile)
$206,000
Wondering if you’d make the cut?
These are the field’s numbers — the more useful question is where you stand relative to them, and why no cutoff exists.
Am I smart enough to be a Air Traffic Controller?Related Professions
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Air Traffic Controller is one of 147 professions ranked by the reasoning a job actually demands — O*NET ability ratings joined to BLS median wages, sortable by either.
How Our IQ Test Maps to This Career
Our comprehensive IQ assessment measures five cognitive domains, including the ones that most define success in Air Traffic Controller roles: Logical Reasoning (30%), Pattern Recognition (30%), Verbal Comprehension (20%), Mathematical Ability (20%).
By taking our assessment, you will receive domain-specific scores that reveal how your cognitive strengths align with the demands of this profession. Whether you are considering a career as a Air Traffic Controller or looking to understand your aptitude for the field, your results provide actionable insight into your fit.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Career Resources
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