How to Become an Air Marshal for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Federal air marshals (FAMs) are law enforcement officers that deal with threats to transportation and travelers in the United States (US). Under the Department of Homeland Security, they are expertly trained to assess and reduce risks and threats to ensure national security. An air marshal’s job is so important that many details about the role are confidential, with air marshals almost always going undercover on the job.

An air marshal can also earn a good income and benefits package. For instance, a March 2025 job post on USAJOBS (2025) for federal air marshals listed a potential annual salary between $63,163 and $82,108. Considering these key pieces of information, aspiring air marshals can build a purposeful and profitable career.

To help you get started, I created this in-depth guide to becoming an air marshal. In this guide, you can explore application requirements, training programs, professional responsibilities, career opportunities, and common challenges.

What are the benefits of becoming an air marshal?

Air marshals undergo rigorous background checks and assessments to qualify for months of training. Their initial training curriculum at a Federal Law Enforcement Training Center includes crowd control, constitutional law, and mental health crisis response. Then, aspiring air marshals continue their training at the Transportation Security Administration Training Center (TSATC).
Aside from a potential annual salary between $60,000 and $80,000, qualified individuals can enjoy medical, dental, vision, retirement, and life insurance benefits.
Federal air marshals fulfill an important, purposeful role. Their history goes back to the 1960s, when they were tasked to protect US airplanes against hijackings. Notably, after the 9/11 terrorist attacks, air marshals were transferred to the newly established Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) (US Government Accountability Office, 2022). Today, they go on countless flights to serve and protect.

What are the primary responsibilities of an air marshal?
What are the minimum qualifications to become an air marshal in 2025?
What kind of training do air marshals go through?
What is the average salary of an air marshal in the US?
What benefits and retirement plans do air marshals get?
Are there opportunities for career advancement and salary increases as an air marshal?
What ongoing education and certifications can enhance an air marshal's career?
What are the key technical and soft skills needed to succeed as an air marshal?
How do air marshals manage mental health and stress in high-risk environments?
How Can Enhanced Legal Expertise Benefit Air Marshals?
What are the biggest risks air marshals face while on duty?
Can air marshal expertise open doors to intelligence careers?
What career paths can air marshals transition into after leaving the job?
Is there a growing demand for air marshals in the US?
What are the legal and ethical considerations for air marshals?
How Do Advanced Technologies Support Air Marshal Operations?
Other Things You Should Know about Becoming an Air Marshal

What are the primary responsibilities of an air marshal?

Federal air marshals mainly work as a team to keep commercial passenger flights safe from terrorist activity, aircraft piracy, and other crimes. Other responsibilities include the following (USAJOBS, 2025):

Collaboration with other federal, state, and local agencies to fight terrorism
Coordination and administration of law enforcement, investigative, analytical, or advisory activities for compliance with laws and regulations
Apprehension without warrants for offenses against the US done in their presence
Apprehension for felonies recognized by US laws based on probable cause
Seeking and carrying out of warrants for arrest or seizure of evidence with probable cause
Identification and interview of witnesses and suspects
Provide details of law enforcement activities to the appropriate US Attorney

What are the minimum qualifications to become an air marshal in 2025?

To become a federal air marshal, candidates must meet minimum qualifications, including US citizenship, being under a specified age limit, and having law enforcement or relevant experience. Earning a homeland security degree can be beneficial, as it provides specialized knowledge in threat detection, emergency response, and law enforcement tactics.

Along with additional conditions of employment, the following are the minimum qualifications to become an air marshal:

Must be a US citizen or US national
Must complete a background investigation
Must be registered with the Selective Service System
Must be at least 21 years old and must not be older than 36 years old at the time of appointment, unless the applicant has proof of current or past service in a Federal civilian law enforcement retirement-covered position
Must complete a polygraph examination
Must pass the medical screening process and physical assessment
Must pass pre-employment medical examination

What kind of training do air marshals go through?

The history of federal air marshals goes back to the 1960s, when they were tasked to protect US airplanes against hijackings. Notably, after the 9/11 terrorist attacks, air marshals were transferred to the newly established Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Although the actual number of air marshals is unknown, the government acknowledges that thousands of them are employed today—up from only 33 before 9/11 (US Government Accountability Office, 2022).

These thousands of air marshals have undergone rigorous background checks and assessments to qualify for months of training. The initial air marshal training curriculum at a Federal Law Enforcement Training Center includes crowd control, constitutional law, and mental health crisis response. Then, trainees continue their program at the Transportation Security Administration Training Center (TSATC) in New Jersey to learn about the responsibilities of an air marshal.

The TSATC training involves physical fitness, investigative skills, aircraft tactics, and active-threat response. Completing the program requires aspirants to get a score that would make them eligible to become firearms instructors in other law enforcement agencies. Moreover, air marshals must finish 112 hours of extra training annually, according to Michael LaFrance, supervisory air marshal in charge of training at the TSATC (Compton, 2023).

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What is the average salary of an air marshal in the US?

An air marshal can also earn a good income and a comprehensive benefits package. For instance, a March 2025 job post on USAJOBS (2025) for federal air marshals listed a potential annual salary between $63,163 and $82,108. Pursuing additional education, such as the cheapest online bachelor degree in public administration, can help air marshals advance in law enforcement or transition into leadership roles.

To compare, the following are other types of law enforcement employees and their 2023 median annual wages [US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 2024]:

Detectives and Criminal Investigators: $91,100
Police and Sheriff’s Patrol Officers: $72,280
Transit and Railroad Police: $72,250

The chart below provides a visualization of the 2023 median annual wages of law enforcement employees in the US, according to 2024 data from the US BLS.

What benefits and retirement plans do air marshals get?

Employees of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), including federal air marshals, may be qualified for the benefits provided by the following federal programs:

Federal Employee Health Benefits (FEHB): This program provides government employees with various healthcare-plan options that can cover qualified family members.
Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP): This program provides FEHB-eligible employees and qualified family members with dental and vision care services.
Federal Flexible Spending Account Program (FSAFEDS): This program offers FEHB-eligible employees with the option to enroll an account wherein they can put cash on a pre-tax basis. The cash may be used for qualified healthcare expenses.
Federal Long Term Care Insurance Program (FLTCIP): This program provides eligible employees and family members with financial assistance to pay for care that supports them in daily activities or treats severe cognitive impairment.
Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS): FERS is a retirement benefits program that offers eligible employees with three options: Basic Benefit Plan, Social Security, and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).

Are there opportunities for career advancement and salary increases as an air marshal?

Career opportunities for employees of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) are available, including federal air marshals. Some pursue further education at the top forensic science colleges to enhance their investigative and analytical skills, which can be valuable for career advancement in law enforcement.

The following are higher-level positions in the Federal Air Marshal Service (FAMS):

Supervisory Federal Air Marshal (SFAM): SFAMs oversee the tasks of subordinate federal air marshals and fulfill other responsibilities, such as operational and administrative activities.
Assistant Supervisory Air Marshal in Charge (ASAC): ASACs are program managers who create and execute law enforcement programs. They also build relationships with federal, state, and local law enforcement officials.
Supervisory Air Marshal in Charge (SAC): SACs are executive officers or senior managers who lead overall planning and operations of law enforcement programs.

What ongoing education and certifications can enhance an air marshal's career?

Federal air marshals may further refine their expertise by undertaking specialized certifications and advanced courses that address emerging security challenges. Pursuing continuous education—ranging from counterterrorism strategies to technological competence—ensures a proactive response to evolving threats. This ongoing professional development can also be supported by academic programs, such as the cheapest criminal justice degree online, which equip candidates with a solid theoretical foundation to complement their practical skills.

What are the key technical and soft skills needed to succeed as an air marshal?

To succeed as a federal air marshal, candidates must possess a combination of technical expertise and soft or “power” skills to ensure effective in-flight security and crisis management. Earning an online cyber security degree can also be advantageous, as it enhances knowledge of digital threats, surveillance techniques, and data protection—valuable skills in modern law enforcement.

Technical Skills

Firearms Proficiency: Air marshals must be highly skilled in handling and using firearms with precision, as they may need to neutralize threats in confined aircraft spaces.
Defensive Tactics: Mastery of hand-to-hand combat and restraint techniques is essential for subduing suspects without endangering passengers or airline crew members.
Surveillance and Threat Detection: Air marshals must be adept at identifying suspicious behavior, assessing security threats, and responding swiftly to prevent potential attacks.

Soft or “Power” Skills

Situational Awareness: The ability to stay vigilant, examine surroundings, and detect irregularities ensures fast decision-making in high-risk situations.
Emotional Resilience: Air marshals operate under extreme stress and must maintain composure and focus in potentially life-threatening situations.
Communication Skills: Clear and discreet communication with airline crew, law enforcement agencies, and team members is essential for coordinating security efforts and preventing misinterpretation of actions.

In addition to these skills, air marshals may find that certain homicide detective job requirements, such as investigative expertise and critical thinking, complement their existing strengths. These shared skills can aid in gathering intelligence, conducting surveillance, and responding appropriately to criminal activities, making air marshals well-equipped for roles that require investigative abilities.

How do air marshals manage mental health and stress in high-risk environments?

Air marshals operate under intense pressure that requires addressing not only physical risks but also significant mental strain. Specialized stress management protocols and regular psychological assessments are implemented to ensure emotional resilience and decision-making capacity during prolonged high-alert situations. Departments often facilitate access to confidential counseling services and peer support networks to mitigate burnout and maintain operational effectiveness. Additionally, understanding legal frameworks related to occupational stress can be beneficial, as demonstrated by insights into the master of legal studies online cost.

How Can Enhanced Legal Expertise Benefit Air Marshals?

Air marshals operate within a multifaceted legal environment that demands an acute understanding of regulatory measures and operational boundaries. Advanced legal expertise supports precise interpretation of new regulations, aids in the proper documentation of incidents, and fosters effective collaboration with judicial authorities. Moreover, bridging security operations with legal know-how helps ensure that procedural standards and constitutional rights are consistently upheld. Pursuing further educational opportunities, such as obtaining the cheapest online paralegal certificate, can provide air marshals with foundational legal skills that enhance decision-making and risk mitigation, ultimately reinforcing their core mission.

What are the biggest risks air marshals face while on duty?

Federal air marshals operate in high-risk environments where they must be prepared for various threats. Their role demands constant vigilance and the ability to respond swiftly to danger.

Close-quarters Combat: Since air marshals work in confined aircraft spaces, engaging a threat poses significant risks to themselves and passengers. Using firearms or physical force in tight quarters requires precision and control.
Terrorist or Criminal Threats: Air marshals are primary targets for terrorists or hijackers. If their identity is compromised, they may be attacked first, reducing their ability to neutralize threats.
Mental and Physical Strain: Constant travel, irregular hours, and high-stress situations can lead to fatigue, burnout, and psychological strain. Maintaining peak performance under such conditions is one of the toughest challenges air marshals face.

In a similar vein, how to become a juvenile probation officer involves rigorous training and understanding of high-stress situations, where the role requires maintaining control and providing support to individuals under difficult circumstances, much like air marshals must manage threats in challenging environments. Both positions demand resilience, specialized knowledge, and the ability to act under pressure.

Can air marshal expertise open doors to intelligence careers?

Air marshals acquire advanced skills in threat analysis, covert communication, and rapid decision-making under high-pressure conditions that are highly transferable to intelligence roles. Their hands-on experience in managing operational risks and maintaining strict confidentiality creates a strong foundation for work in federal intelligence agencies. With targeted additional training and security clearances, professionals can strategically pivot into intelligence positions that demand analytical acumen and meticulous operational planning. For example, exploring opportunities in becoming a CIA agent can pave the way for a career in national security intelligence, where leveraging real-world law enforcement expertise is key to enhancing inter-agency collaboration and advanced threat mitigation.

What career paths can air marshals transition into after leaving the job?

Federal air marshals develop advanced law enforcement skills, making them well-suited for various career transitions within the security and investigative fields. Many pursue additional training or degrees through military friendly colleges, which offer flexible programs tailored to veterans and law enforcement professionals.

Police and Sheriff’s Patrol Officers: Former air marshals can join local or state police departments, using their expertise in threat assessment and crisis response to serve communities and uphold public safety. In 2023, 674,200 police and sheriff’s patrol officers were employed in the US (US BLS, 2024).
Detectives and Criminal Investigators: With their background in surveillance and investigation, air marshals can transition into roles that focus on solving crimes, gathering evidence, and working undercover. In 2023, 113,400 detectives and criminal investigators worked in the US (US BLS, 2024).
Transit and Railroad Police: Air marshals’ experience in securing transportation systems makes them ideal candidates for protecting railways, subways, and public transit networks from criminal activity and security threats. In 2023, 2,400 transit and railroad police were employed in the US (US BLS, 2024).

Additionally, air marshals may explore roles like a hospice nurse career path, where they can leverage their ability to work under pressure, manage sensitive situations, and provide support to individuals in critical conditions. While this may require a shift in training and qualifications, the core competencies in crisis management and care could make the transition smoother for those interested in healthcare and patient support.

The chart below provides a visualization of the 2023 employment levels of professions related to federal air marshals, according to 2024 data from the US BLS.

Is there a growing demand for air marshals in the U.S.?

Since much of an air marshal’s daily responsibilities are confidential, not much data is available in terms of demand. Zippia, an online career and recruitment services platform, projected that the employment for federal air marshals would increase by 3% between 2018 and 2028 (Zippia, 2025).

Moreover, the following related law enforcement professions were also projected to have positive job growth rates between 2023 and 2033 (US BLS, 2024):

Police and Sheriff’s Patrol Officers: 4%
Detectives and Criminal Investigators: 2%
Transit and Railroad Police: 4%

Notably, many aspiring officers pursue degrees from the best colleges for police officers, which offer specialized training and career advancement opportunities.

What are the legal and ethical considerations for air marshals?

Air marshals operate under stringent legal frameworks that define their authority and set clear parameters for acceptable conduct during covert operations. Their actions are subject to federal laws, internal oversight, and judicial review to ensure that the balance between national security and civil liberties is maintained. In addition, ethical considerations mandate that air marshals adhere to strict protocols regarding the use of force and the protection of individual rights, minimizing the risk of potential controversies or misuse of power. Furthermore, understanding these legal constraints can help professionals evaluate related opportunities, such as transitioning to roles that focus on accountability and regulatory compliance seen in the highest paying jobs in criminology.

How Do Advanced Technologies Support Air Marshal Operations?

Air marshals leverage cutting-edge technologies to enhance threat detection and response capabilities. Integrated surveillance systems, real-time biometric analysis, and AI-driven data analytics allow for the rapid identification and assessment of potential risks. These technological tools facilitate improved coordination with domestic and international security agencies while ensuring compliance with federal protocols. Moreover, a solid understanding of technology-related legal issues remains critical, underscoring the value of targeted legal education through programs like the fastest online paralegal certification programs.

Key Findings

To become a federal air marshal, candidates must meet minimum qualifications, including US citizenship, being under a specified age limit, and having law enforcement or relevant experience.
The history of federal air marshals goes back to the 1960s, when they were tasked to protect US airplanes against hijackings. Notably, after the 9/11 terrorist attacks, air marshals were transferred to the newly established Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Although the actual number of air marshals is unknown, the government acknowledges that thousands of them are employed today—up from only 33 before 9/11 (US Government Accountability Office, 2022).
Employees of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), including federal air marshals, may be qualified for the benefits provided by several federal programs, including Federal Employee Health Benefits (FEHB), the Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP), and the Federal Flexible Spending Account Program (FSAFEDS).
Several higher-level positions in the Federal Air Marshal Service (FAMS) are available to qualified air marshals, such as Supervisory Federal Air Marshal (SFAM), Assistant Supervisory Air Marshal in Charge (ASAC), and Supervisory Air Marshal in Charge (SAC).
Zippia projected that the employment for federal air marshals would increase by 3% between 2018 and 2028 (Zippia, 2025).

Other Things You Should Know about Becoming an Air Marshal

Is “air marshal” a high rank?

“Air marshal” is not a high rank but a specialized federal law enforcement position. The role focuses on in-flight security rather than a hierarchical ranking within law enforcement agencies.

What is the highest rank in the military?

The highest rank in the US military is General of the Army (five-star general) in the Army and Fleet Admiral in the Navy. However, these ranks are only used in wartime.

Who is the highest rank in the Air Force?

The highest rank in the US Air Force is General (four-star general). In wartime, the title General of the Air Force (five-star general) may be awarded but has only been held by General Henry H. Arnold (1886–1950).

Which countries have air marshals?

Countries with air marshals include the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and India. These nations deploy undercover officers on flights to enhance aviation security and prevent threats.

References:

USAJOBS. (2025). Federal Air Marshal. https://www.usajobs.gov/job/832938300
US Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, August 29). Police and Detectives. Occupational Outlook Handbook. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/protective-service/police-and-detectives.htm
US Government Accountability Office. (2022, March 29). From Hijacking to COVID-19: 60 Years of the Federal Air Marshal Service. https://www.gao.gov/blog/hijacking-covid-19-60-years-federal-air-marshal-service
Zippia Team. (2025, January 08). What is a federal air marshal and how to become one. https://www.zippia.com/federal-air-marshal-jobs