The Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) has launched an opportunity offering 120 bursaries for its Air Traffic Services (ATS) Bursary Programme for the 2027/28 financial year. This bursary programme is targeted at unemployed South African youth who have attained a Matric certificate with specific academic achievements, providing a pathway into careers in South African aviation without requiring a university degree.
About the ATNS Air Traffic Services Bursary Programme
ATNS, the state-owned company integral to South Africa’s aviation infrastructure, manages air traffic control and navigation services to ensure the safe and efficient movement of aircraft throughout the country’s airspace. The ATS Bursary Programme is designed to develop specialized personnel within this critical air traffic services environment by providing intensive training at the ATNS Aviation Training Academy located in Bonaero Park, Gauteng.
This programme includes four intakes planned for 2027/28, opening multiple opportunities to build foundational skills and knowledge in air traffic operations. The bursaries cover several specialized training streams that offer diverse career pathways within the aviation sector.
Available Training Streams
- Air Traffic Services Officer (ATSO): Focuses on operational aviation procedures and communication to support safe aircraft movement. Candidates must meet medical fitness standards.
- Aeronautical Information Management Officer (AIMO): Involves working with aeronautical data and information management essential for aviation safety and operations.
- Target Generating Officer (TGO): Carries out technical and operational functions related to air traffic management systems.
- Airport Management Centre (AMC) Liaison Officer: Supports coordination between stakeholders at airport management centres.
Who Can Apply and Requirements
The bursary is aimed at unemployed South African citizens who have the following qualifications and meet specific criteria:
- A National Senior Certificate (Matric) with at least Level 4 achievement in both Pure Mathematics and English.
- Applicants must be South African citizens with a valid ID document.
- For those interested in the ATSO stream, medical fitness at the required ATNS standard is mandatory.
- Applicants must be willing to relocate anywhere within South Africa for training and possible placement.
- Previous participants in a similar ATNS programme are not eligible.
Mathematical Literacy or Mathematics below Level 4 does not meet the minimum requirements. There is no explicit university degree requirement, making this bursary accessible to Matric holders meeting the required subject standards.
Study Location and Programme Details
Successful candidates will train at the ATNS Aviation Training Academy in Bonaero Park, Gauteng. The training is aviation-specific, focused on equipping bursars with practical skills related to air traffic services and aviation safety. While previous programmes have lasted around one year, applicants should confirm specific programme durations and training schedules with ATNS for each intake.
Remuneration and Benefits
The bursary listing states remuneration as “market related,” but no explicit bursary allowance or stipend is confirmed. Past programmes have included support such as accommodation, meals, and transport. Prospective applicants should request detailed information on the financial package when applying.
Application Process
Applications must be submitted online through the ATNS official recruitment portal. The application involves registering or logging into the system, completing your profile, and uploading required documents including your Matric results and South African ID.
Applicants should prepare a professional CV and ensure all information, especially academic results and personal details, are accurate and truthful.
The current closing date displayed for applications is 5 October 2027. Since there are four planned intakes, applicants should verify intake-specific deadlines directly with ATNS to avoid missing their preferred application window.
For detailed information and to apply, visit the official ATNS Air Traffic Services Bursary Programme 2027 application page.
Important Considerations Before Applying
Applicants are advised to research each available training stream carefully to understand the roles and responsibilities connected with them. The bursary leads to specialised aviation training but does not guarantee permanent employment or licensing as an air traffic controller. Candidates should also prepare for selection assessments, which may include medical evaluations and ability tests.
Investigating the aviation sector’s career pathways and understanding the skills required can help applicants make informed decisions. Online tools like career interest assessments and qualification explorers may offer guidance, but official ATNS information should remain the primary reference.
