Air Traffic Controller salary in South Africa

Average Yearly Salary of Air Traffic Controller in South Africa is approximately 250,134 ZAR (12,502 USD). Data is for 2025 and indicates a pre-tax value. The salary itself depends on multiple factors such as seniority, job performance, certifications, experience or any other bonuses. The value indicated is an average amount based on records we have in database. Real values may vary. The data is for orientational purposes.

What does Air Traffic Controller do?

An air traffic controller is responsible for ensuring the safe and efficient movement of aircraft within their designated airspace. They communicate with pilots, providing them with guidance and instructions to maintain proper separation between aircraft and ensure smooth flow of air traffic. Air traffic controllers monitor radar screens and use advanced technology to track aircraft, weather conditions, and potential hazards. They must possess excellent problem-solving skills, as they are required to make quick decisions in high-pressure situations. Attention to detail and strong communication skills are essential, as they need to relay accurate information to pilots and coordinate with other air traffic controllers. Additionally, air traffic controllers must stay updated on aviation regulations and procedures to effectively manage air traffic.

Skills: Air traffic control, Aviation, Safety, Communication, Decision-making, Radar monitoring
Job industry: Transportation

How much does Air Traffic Controller make?

Difference in salary year over year or average salary increase is approximately 3 %


Want to check how your salary compares? Submit your own salary here

Salary comparison to National average

Is Air Traffic Controller a well paid job?

Yes, our data shows that Air Traffic Controller is a well paid job. With years and experience the salary might increase even further, resulting in higher satisfaction.

What is considered a high salary for Air Traffic Controller?

High salary for Air Traffic Controller would be somewhere between 275,147 ZAR and 362,694 ZAR. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Air Traffic Controller in South Africa?

Living in South Africa the approximate monthly expenses are: 271 USD. This amount covers basic needs such as food, housing, clothing, healthcare and education costs for a single person. No luxury expenses such as traveling, leisure, hobbies are included in the estimation.

Estimated Yearly Salary: 250,134 ZAR
Estimated Monthly Salary: 20,845 ZAR
Estimated Weekly Salary: 4,810 ZAR per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 120 ZAR per hour
By working as Air Traffic Controller a person can save up to 771 USD per month or 9,248 USD yearly. Values are pre-tax.

NOTE: These values are estimates and are averaged for the whole country. Furthermore the value is likely exaggerated as no other expenses are taken into account in the projection. Unessential expenses are very subjective and are difficult to assess. Most likely the previously estimated number is significantly lower for majority of people. Expenses in different cities across the country may vary. Above values accuracy is low and is based on limited set of data obtained.

For more information regarding expenses in South Africa, see costs of living in South Africa.

Salary comparison to region and neighbouring coutries

Country's neighbours are: Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Eswatini, Lesotho.
To make it easier for comparison a conversion from local currency to USD has been made (conversion rates may vary).

Estimated Yearly Salary for Air Traffic Controller

Last revision of data: 2025-01-04

Salary increase per years of experience

Based on data available the salary increase per years of experience is as following

0 years (beginner) equals base salary

1 to 5 years of experience yields +12% salary increase

6 to 10 years of experience yields +25% salary increase

11 to 15 years of experience yields +16% salary increase

16 to 25 years of experience yields +9% salary increase

more than 25 years of experience yields +10% salary increase

NOTE: Details based on limited set of data. Percentages may vary. The salary increase over years of experience can vary widely based on factors such as job industry, job role, location, company size, and individual performance. To gain even larger increase in salary one is advised to switch jobs and / or employer.

Top 10 highest salaries in South Africa

Data as of 2025

Random salary:
Associate professor of law (177,234 ZAR per year, pre-tax.)
Implementation manager (170,117 ZAR per year, pre-tax.)
Rough carpenter (87,596 ZAR per year, pre-tax.)
Talent acquisition partner (175,789 ZAR per year, pre-tax.)
Knowledge management analyst (117,787 ZAR per year, pre-tax.)

Feedback about these results