General Discussion

and tip jars at airports isn't going to do it. Air traffic controllers are actually paid very well, and it isn't a job anyone would take if they didn't really like it and take it very seriously (I've known several ATC and they love their work). But the only way the air traffic control system can work is by keeping it federally-regulated and managed so it's consistent throughout the country. There are private air traffic control services at some smaller airports, and in those cases a private company employs the controllers under a contract with the FAA, which pays them through the private company, while the airport authority pays for the tower and associated equipment. The controllers are trained and regulated by the same FAA rules as FAA controllers. It applies only to towers (local control) and not to TRACON or en-route facilities. https://www.faa.gov/about/office_org/headquarters_offices/ato/service_units/mission_support/faa_contract_tower_program