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Air Traffic Controller Cover Letter Template

Professional template and example for Australian job applications

Air Traffic Controller Cover Letter Example

Dear Hiring Manager, I’ve been working in ATC for several years and know how a clear flow and calm communication keep the skies safer. In my current role I’ve managed peak hour traffic with a workload that routinely includes 40 to 60 aircraft per hour, and I’ve found a steady rhythm using radar and radio calls to keep sequencing precise and predictable. I’m interested in joining [Company Name] because of its commitment to safe, efficient operations and its focus on high standards in airfield coordination. I bring solid skills in radar and ground control, radio phraseology, and pre flight briefings, alongside strong situational awareness and decision making under pressure. I’m comfortable using telecommunication systems for Aeronautical Information Services and I keep strict alignment with airport operations procedures. I’m looking for a role where I can contribute to clear handoffs, accurate taxi guidance, and timely clearances that support a stable flow of traffic. A recent shift stands out: during a mid afternoon peak, a sudden weather rotor reduced visibility and tied up arrivals. I coordinated with tower and ground to re-sequence departures, updated pilots with concise information, and kept the runway occupancy controlled while ensuring safe separation. The result was a 20 per cent reduction in airfield holds over the hour and no safety incidents, a outcome I’m proud of and would bring to [Company Name]. I’m available for a discussion at your convenience and can talk through how my experience aligns with the role at [Company Name]. I’m happy to provide references from [Previous Company] and to demonstrate how I would fit into your team. Kind regards, [Your Name]

Stand out and land Air Traffic Controller interviews with a customised cover letter

Our AI analyses your experience against the job requirements to create a targeted cover letter that gets noticed.

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AI-powered

Matches your experience to job requirements

Complete both steps above to generate your cover letter

What happens next: Our AI will match your skills to the job requirements, highlight relevant achievements, and create a compelling narrative that positions you as the ideal candidate.

Why This Air Traffic Controller Cover Letter Works

Opening Paragraph

Hook with specific achievement + role alignment

Skills Match

Maps experience to job needs + company research

STAR Example

Situation-Task-Action-Result with numbers

Professional Close

Forward momentum + availability

Key Requirements for Air Traffic Controller Roles

Essential Skills to Highlight

Make sure your cover letter demonstrates these key skills:

Air Traffic Control ProceduresAircraft Movement CoordinationRadio Communication ProficiencyPre-flight Briefing DeliveryAeronautical Information ProvisionSituational AwarenessDecision-making Under PressureAirport Operations KnowledgeTelecommunication Systems Familiarity

Tip: Include specific examples of how you've used these skills in your STAR example paragraph.

Core Responsibilities to Address

Align your experience with these typical responsibilities:

  • Controls Aircraft Movements
  • Directs Aircraft Taxi Movements
  • Take-offs and Landings
  • Uses Radio Communications
  • Provides Pre-flight Briefings
  • ...and more

Tip: Reference 2-3 of these responsibilities when describing your relevant experience.

Air Traffic Controller Cover Letter Best Practices

Structure (4 Paragraphs)

Opening (40-60 words): State the role and company, plus one compelling hook
Match (100-130 words): Map 2-3 achievements to their top requirements
Proof (80-100 words): One detailed STAR example with quantified results
Close (30-40 words): Confirm fit and invite discussion

Essential Requirements

  • • Length: 250-350 words (one A4 page)
  • • Australian English spelling and dates (DD/MM/YYYY)
  • • Address to specific person when possible
  • • No photos or personal details (DOB, etc.)

What Makes It Strong

  • • Specific achievements with numbers
  • • Company research in second paragraph
  • • Keywords from the job description
  • • Professional but personable tone

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • • Generic opening lines
  • • Repeating your CV chronologically
  • • Including salary unless asked
  • • Exceeding one page