Standard Occupational Classification (SOC): Air Traffic Controllers and Airfield Operations Specialists

Air traffic controllers and airfield operations specialists are responsible for managing the movement of aircraft within an assigned area of airspace and the operation of an airport or other aviation facility. Air traffic controllers use radar, radios, and other equipment to monitor the location, altitude, and speed of aircraft, and provide pilots with information and instructions to ensure the safe and efficient flow of air traffic. Airfield operations specialists may be responsible for tasks such as coordinating the movement of aircraft on the ground, maintaining the airfield and its facilities, and providing information and assistance to pilots and other personnel. While air traffic controllers and airfield operations specialists may not directly work in the healthcare industry, they may play a role in facilitating the transport of patients and medical personnel to and from healthcare facilities. For example, they may coordinate the departure and arrival of aircraft that are carrying patients or medical personnel, or they may provide pilots with information about the availability of landing slots at airports that are near healthcare facilities. In these ways, air traffic controllers and airfield operations specialists can help to ensure the timely and effective delivery of healthcare services to those in need.