Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) is opening a new job path for South African students who are still looking for a career. The Air Traffic Services Bursar / Trainee Programme 2026 gives you a chance to start a job in the world of air traffic control and related aviation services. There are 117 spots available for people who want to learn about how we keep the skies safe and organized.
What the Programme Is About
The ATNS Trainee Programme is a step‑by‑step plan that teaches you the skills you need to help manage the airspace over South Africa. If you’re chosen, you will get a mix of classroom learning and hands‑on experience. After the training, you may work in ATNS offices across the country.
This training happens at the Aviation Training Academy in Bonaero Park – a place where you’ll be taught by experts and get to see real air traffic control in action. The programme runs until the end of 2026, so you will finish with a solid foundation in aviation.
Bursary Streams You Can Apply For
There are five different areas you can choose to specialize in:
- Air Traffic Services Officer (ATSO)
- Aeronautical Information Management Officer (AIMO)
- Target Generating Officer (TGO)
- Airport Management Centre (AMC) Liaison Officer
- Simulator Support Officer (SSO)
Who Can Apply
You must meet every requirement to be considered. Here’s what you need:
- Grade 12 / Matric certificate. You must have passed:
- Pure Mathematics – Level 4 (HG D / SG C or better)
- English – Level 4 (HG D / SG C or better)
- South African citizen with a valid ID document.
- Unemployed youth who are still studying or looking for a first job.
- Physically fit and ready for a medical check‑up, especially for the ATSO stream.
- Ready to move to any part of South Africa for training and work.
- Attach your Grade 12 results when you send in your application.
⚠️ If you have already taken part in a similar ATNS programme, we cannot accept your application.
What You Will Get
As a trainee, you will receive:
- Full funding for training, so you don’t pay anything for the courses.
- Access to the ATNS Aviation Training Academy where you’ll learn from experienced instructors.
- Hands‑on time with real air traffic operations, giving you a clear sense of what the job looks like day‑to‑day.
- A job placement that matches the needs of ATNS around the country.
- Entry into an essential and highly specialized field that keeps South African skies safe.
Getting this training can open a door to a lasting career in aviation and air navigation services.
How to Apply
When you’re ready, apply for the ATNS Trainee Programme 2026. Make sure all the documents you need are in your file and send the application before 31 January 2026. We will not accept any late entries.
Important Things to Remember
- Only people who are shortlisted will be contacted for the next steps.
- Where you train and work will depend on the current needs of ATNS.
- You must be available for the full training period without any major gaps.
Don’t miss the chance to join a job that keeps the world moving safely above the ground. If you want to be part of a team that helps planes travel smoothly, this programme is a great place to start.