TransportationOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Air Traffic Controller Salary in New York
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$260,914/yr
Typical range: $232,790 – $284,513
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Air Traffic Controller salary by experience level in New York
Air Traffic Controller Salary Progression in New York
From entry-level through staff — based on BLS OEWS percentile data
| Experience Level | Years | Percentile | Annual Salary | Monthly | vs Entry |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry | 0 yrs | 0 yrs | $126,730 | $10,561 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $156,548 | $13,046 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $176,427 | $14,702 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $201,276 | $16,773 | +59% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $260,914 | $21,743 | +106% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $317,569 | $26,464 | +151% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $331,733 | $27,644 | +162% |
Current Salary
$260,914
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $125/hr
Next Level Target
$317,569
Principal · 14
+$57Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
33/100
High Risk
+3% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Air Traffic Controller salary in New York, NY?
Staff / Lead Air Traffic Controllers in New York, NY earn approximately $261K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead Air Traffic Controller make per hour in New York, NY?
Based on $261K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $125/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Air Traffic Controller in New York, NY?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Air Traffic Controller in New York, NY earns $233K–$285K/yr.