"When two airplanes were flown into the World Trade Center towers on September 11, 2001, Americans watched in uncomprehending shock as first responders struggled to react to the situation on the ground. Another remarkable and heroic feat was taking place in the air: more than 550 air traffic control centers across the country coordinated their efforts to ground 4,000 flights in just two hours--an achievement all the more impressive considering the...

Readers will learn what it takes to succeed as an air traffic controller. The book also explains the necessary educational steps, useful character traits, potential hazards, and daily job tasks related to this career. Sidebars include thought-provoking trivia. Questions in the backmatter ask for text-dependent analysis. Photos, a glossary, and additional resources are included.