Air Traffic Services Bursary Programme 2026 – A Pathway into Aviation
Are you a South African student who loves airplanes, computers, and helping people travel safely? Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) is looking for enthusiastic young people to join the Air Traffic Services (ATS) Bursary Programme 2026. This programme offers 117 fully paid seats at the Aviation Training Academy in Bonaero Park, Gauteng. You will learn everything you need to become a professional in the world of air traffic control and airport safety.
What the Bursary Looks Like
- Application deadline: 31 January 2026
- Training location: Aviation Training Academy, Bonaero Park, Gauteng
- Contract type: Fixed‑term training programme
- Industry: Aviation & Aerospace
If you’re excited about keeping planes safe, managing flight information, and working with technology that helps pilots and airports operate smoothly, this is the right chance for you.
Why Choose the ATS Bursary?
ATNS will run four bursary intakes during the year. Each successful applicant will get hands‑on training that matches what the organisation needs in its day‑to‑day work. The programme is full‑time and covers both classroom learning and practical experience. You’ll see how air traffic control systems work, what data a pilot needs, and how an airport manages its operations.
Bursary Streams
You can join one of five special tracks:
- Air Traffic Services Officer (ATSO) – help keep the skies clear and safe.
- Aeronautical Information Management Officer (AIMO) – manage flight‑related information.
- Target Generating Officer (TGO) – produce target data for flight plans.
- Airport Management Centre Liaison Officer – act as a bridge between control and airport teams.
- Simulator Support Officer (SSO) – maintain and support flight simulators.
Each stream has its own focus, but all of them share the same core training and real‑world practice.
What You’ll Do
As a bursary holder, you’ll:
- Attend a comprehensive curriculum at the Aviation Training Academy.
- Work with real air traffic management systems.
- Learn both theory and practice of flight safety.
- Participate in work‑integrated training that follows the needs of ATNS.
This gives you a complete picture of the aviation industry and prepares you for a job after the programme.
Do You Qualify?
You must meet every condition below:
- Matric certificate (Grade 12).
- Pass Pure Mathematics and English at level 4 or higher.
- Be a South African citizen with a valid ID.
- Be medically fit and ready for a medical check if you choose the ATSO stream.
- Attach your Grade 12 results to the application.
- Be ready to relocate anywhere in South Africa during training.
- Be unemployed at the time of application.
- Be aged 18–35.
- If you have already taken part in an ATNS bursary before, you cannot re‑apply.
All documents must be submitted in the application portal, including your ID copy, CV, and any other required files.
What You’ll Get
- A market‑related bursary that covers your training costs.
- Extra support while you’re learning the trade.
- Hands‑on aviation experience that will set you apart.
How to Apply
If you’re ready to jump into aviation, follow the steps below:
- Click on the link below.
- Fill out the online form.
- Upload your Grade 12 results, ID, CV, and any other documents required.
Apply for the ATNS ATS Bursary Programme 2026
You’ll be directed to the ATNS application page where you can start your application process.
What Happens After You Finish?
This bursary can launch a career in several exciting fields:
- Air Traffic Controller – the people who guide planes in the sky.
- Aeronautical Information Officer – keep flight data accurate.
- Simulator Technician – maintain training simulators.
- Target Generation Specialist – create flight data for airlines.
- Airport Operations Liaison – coordinate between airports and controllers.
Many students who finish the programme move into well‑paid positions within aviation, gaining skills that are in high demand.
Don’t miss this chance to study for free and start a future in aviation.
Apply before the 31 January 2026 deadline and secure your spot in one of the 117 bursary places. Good luck, and see you in the skies!