In a method of actively controlling slider fly height, a modulated radio frequency (RF) carrier signal is received from a slider. The modulated RF carrier signal comprises an amplitude modulated component which is modulated onto the modulated RF carrier signal by vibration of the slider. The amplitude associated with the amplitude modulated component is measured. Thermal fly height control (TFC) voltage generation is controlled by feeding back on the amplitude. A TFC voltage to apply to the slider is generated such that a selected amplitude of the amplitude modulated component is achieved and maintained. The selected amplitude is associated with a particular preselected fly height of the slider above a surface of a disk. The TFC voltage is provided to the slider.