Air traffic control absences surge, hitting almost half of major US airports

[PigsDad]

In this day and age why would anyone want to be an Air Traffic Controller.

I have a good friend who was an ATC, and there are some great benefits. First, you don’t necessarily need a 4 year college degree, so for those worried about huge college debt, it can be much more affordable.

Second, he really enjoyed the clear distinction between work and not work, meaning there is no bleed between the two. When you are off work, there is nothing pulling you back in, such as checking email, working late to finish a report, etc. There are no projects with deadlines. If you enjoy the actual work, it can be a very low stress job, believe it or not.

Third, he was able to retire at 52 with close to a 100% pension, medical, etc. Mandatory retirement age is 56 — you get to enjoy an additional 11 years of retirement compared to the standard SS retirement age. How many jobs today offer that type of retirement benefits?

Kurt

 

[Pennytx]

My college roommate was a air traffic controller
Another benefit when you retire is you are fully vested and there is no negative on your social security etc for drawing at a younger age
Plus their pensions are unbelievable

 

[Pennytx]

And their health care benefits also