Personality Assessment

Note: The Personality section is a behavioral assessment rather than a cognitive skills test. You cannot really "study" for it, but test-takers often still want to know what to expect. The sample questions below are unscored; they are simply to help you familiarize yourself with the format.

What is the FAA looking for?

Air traffic control is a high-stress, safety-critical environment. The FAA uses this assessment to identify candidates whose natural dispositions align with the demands of the job. They are primarily screening for:

  • Decisiveness: Can you make a choice quickly and stand by it?
  • Stress Tolerance: Do you remain calm when overwhelmed with tasks?
  • Rule Adherence: ATC is entirely governed by the 7110.65 rulebook. Mavericks do not make good controllers.
  • Teamwork & Agreeableness: Can you work cooperatively with others in a tight, high-pressure room?

Sample Assessment

Select the option that best describes how much you agree or disagree with the statement. Try to answer honestly rather than overthinking what the "correct" answer should be.

1. I prefer to follow established procedures even if I think there is a faster way.

2. I rarely feel overwhelmed when multiple people need my attention at once.

3. If I make a decision, I usually second-guess myself later.

4. I enjoy working independently more than being part of a team.

Other ATSA Practice Tools

1. Memory
2. Variables
3. Spatial
4. Radar
5 & 6. Logic
7. Personality
← Back to ATSA Prep Dashboard