Air Traffic Controller Salary in Charlotte, NC: $134,632 (2026)

Air Traffic Controller Pay in Charlotte: What to Expect (2026)

Charlotte offers a median air traffic controller salary of $134,632, which is $8,242 above the North Carolina state average of $126,390. Compared to the national median of $137,380, Charlotte pays below the national benchmark for this role.

Charlotte's cost of living is 98% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.

The salary range for air traffic controllers in Charlotte spans from $80,360 at the 10th percentile to $194,040 at the 90th percentile — a $113,680 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $83,300, while senior air traffic controllers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $186,200. As a major metro area with a population of 874,579, Charlotte typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.

Air Traffic Controller Salary in Charlotte by Experience

In Charlotte, an entry-level air traffic controller earns around $83,300, while experienced professionals earn up to $186,200 per year. The local cost of living index is 98% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)

$83,300

$-1,700 vs national

Mid Level (3-7 yrs)

$137,200

$-2,800 vs national

Senior Level (8+ yrs)

$186,200

$-3,800 vs national

Percentile	Charlotte	NC State	National
10th Percentile	$80,360	$75,440	$82,000
25th Percentile	$105,840	$99,360	$108,000
Median (50th)	$134,632	$126,390	$137,380
75th Percentile	$171,500	$161,000	$175,000
90th Percentile	$194,040	$182,160	$198,000

Percentile

Charlotte

10th Percentile

$80,360

25th Percentile

$105,840

Median (50th)

$134,632

75th Percentile

$171,500

90th Percentile

$194,040

How to Become a Air Traffic Controller in Charlotte

Education

Most air traffic controller positions require a bachelor's degree. Charlotte and the surrounding North Carolina area have institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Radar SystemsCommunicationDecision MakingStress ManagementFAA RegulationsSituational Awareness

Job Outlook

Nationally, air traffic controller employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Charlotte may vary based on local industry and population growth.

Frequently Asked Questions: Air Traffic Controller Salary in Charlotte

How much does a Air Traffic Controller make in Charlotte, NC? ▼

The median air traffic controller salary in Charlotte, North Carolina is $134,632 per year, which is 2% below the national median of $137,380. Salaries range from $80,360 (10th percentile) to $194,040 (90th percentile).

How much does a Air Traffic Controller make per hour in Charlotte? ▼

Based on the median annual salary of $134,632, a air traffic controller in Charlotte earns approximately $65 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.

How does Charlotte compare to the North Carolina state average for air traffic controller pay? ▼

Charlotte's median air traffic controller salary of $134,632 is 6.5% above the North Carolina state average of $126,390. The local cost of living index is 98% of the national average.

What is the cost of living in Charlotte, NC? ▼

Charlotte has a cost of living index of 98% compared to the national average. This means a air traffic controller salary of $134,632 in Charlotte has more purchasing power than the same salary in an average-cost city.

What qualifications do I need to become a air traffic controller in Charlotte? ▼

Most air traffic controller positions in Charlotte require a bachelor's degree. Key skills include Radar Systems, Communication, Decision Making, Stress Management. The job market is projected to grow 3% nationally over the next decade.

Air Traffic Controller Salary in Charlotte, North Carolina