Air Traffic Controller
The Work
Air Traffic Controllers issue instructions, advice and information to pilots by radio to keep air traffic flying safely, efficiently and quickly.
Air Traffic Controllers are highly trained and have to be quick to deal with any changes to circumstances in the air such as weather or unscheduled air traffic. There are 3 main types of Air Traffic Controllers. These are:
- Aerodrome Controllers
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Aerodrome Controllers are responsible for the aircraft taking off safely. They then pass on the aircraft to the Area Controllers.
- Area Controllers
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Area Controllers are responsible for the en route stage of the flight using radio to communicate with the pilot and radar to keep air traffic separated whilst giving the pilot the most efficient route to their destination.
- Approach Controllers
- As aircraft approach their destination airport, Approach Controllers take over responsibility from Area Controllers. This involves guiding and sequencing aircraft on their approach to landing. From about 5 miles from the airport the aircraft responsibility is then passed back into the hands of the Aerodrome Controller for a safe landing.
Skills and Personal Attributes
Air Traffic Controllers need:
- To be able to concentrate for long periods
- Tenacity
- An ability to check information quickly and accurately
- To be willing to do shift work
- Team working skills
- Self-discipline and maturity
- To think logically
- Flexibility
- Interpret and analyse data/information.
Entry Requirements
To start training candidates should:
- Be at least 18 years and under 30 on the date of application. Applicants over 30 will only be considered if they have relevant military or civil experience as an Air Traffic Controller or Pilot.
- Have gained 5 GCSEs at grade A-C including English and Maths.
- Have completed a period of post-GCSE study at a higher level through to examination, for example 2 A Levels or equivalent.
- Be eligible to work in the UK.
- You will need to pass a full and strict criminal record check.
Selection Process
The selection process is rigorous due to the important nature of the work. Included at the Initial Selection Test Day:
- A full day at a local test centre
- An opportunity to speak to a qualified Air Traffic Controller
- Tests on spatial visualisation, mental arithmetic, short term memory and information checking
- Psychometric questionnaires to find out more about your personality, learning style and motivation
- If unsuccessful you can reapply after 12 months up to a maximum of 3 years
Final Stage Interviews
Two interviews that last for an hour each. One will focus on your abilities and motivation for the job. The other interview looks at your personal skills and achievements.
Training
Training is carried out centrally at the National Air Traffic Control College in Bournemouth.
Courses include:
- ATC Familiarisation
- Air Traffic Services Assistant
- Aerodrome Approach Procedural
- Radar Skills
- Approach Radar
- Area Radar
- On-the-job training instruction.
Opportunities
In the UK there are currently around 2,500 Air Traffic Controllers.
National Air Traffic Services (NATS) employ 4 out of 5 of these vacancies.
Regional airports like Robin Hood Airport offer opportunities for Air Traffic Controllers and Air Traffic Control Assistants.
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