Air Traffic and Navigation Services SOC Limited (ATNS) is offering a special opportunity for South African young people who are out of work and want to start a career in the skies. The ATNS Bursary Programme 2026 will give you free training to become an Air Traffic Services Officer and open doors to other roles in aviation, such as an Aeronautical Information Management Officer or a Target Generating Officer.
Why this programme is a big deal
If you’ve ever thought about working in airports, helping planes land safely, or keeping air traffic moving smoothly, this bursary can turn that dream into reality. You’ll learn how to manage airspace, coordinate flights, and keep everyone on the ground and in the air safe.
Who is ATNS?
ATNS is the state-owned company officially mandated by the South African government to provide air traffic control, navigation, surveillance, and associated services across South Africa. It is also responsible for managing air traffic throughout a vast portion of the Africa-Indian Ocean (AFI) region, covering approximately 10% of the world’s airspace — spanning large areas of the Atlantic and Southern Indian Oceans.
With over 30 years of experience ensuring safer African skies, ATNS upholds rigorous international safety standards in line with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) requirements. The company partners with global aviation bodies, including the International Air Transport Association (IATA), to maintain the highest levels of safety, efficiency, and innovation in air traffic management.
World-Class Training at the ATNS Aviation Training Academy
All training for the 2026 bursary takes place at the ATNS Aviation Training Academy (ATA) in Bonaero Park, Gauteng — a leading facility recognized as an IATA Regional Training Partner and Authorised Training Centre. The ATA has been awarded IATA’s Worldwide Top Regional Training Partner title for multiple years, along with accolades such as the Premier Circle Award and Platinum recognition for outstanding performance in delivering ICAO-compliant courses.
It provides specialized air traffic services and engineering training to ATNS staff, as well as aviation and safety-related programmes across the African continent and into the Middle East. Trainees benefit from state-of-the-art simulators, real-world air traffic management tools, and instruction from highly qualified, experienced professionals who actively manage live operations in airports and control centres. This ensures graduates gain industry-leading expertise in airspace management, flight safety, and aviation technology.
What the 2026 bursary looks like
- 117 spots are available for students who want to study air traffic services.
- Once you’re chosen, you’ll be assigned to one of the following jobs:
- Air Traffic Services Officer (ATSO)
- Aeronautical Information Management Officer (AIMO)
- Target Generating Officer (TGO)
- Airport Management Centre (AMC) Liaison Officer
- Simulator Support Officer (SSO)
- You’ll train full‑time at the ATNS Aviation Training Academy.
What you’ll get from the programme
- A step‑by‑step learning plan that covers everything from basic concepts to advanced techniques in air traffic control.
- Hands‑on experience with real‑world air traffic tools and equipment.
- Guidance from experienced trainers who work every day in airports and air traffic centers.
- A clear path to a job in aviation after you finish the course.
Who can apply
To be considered, you must:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Have finished Matric (your high‑school certificate).
- Score at least a Level 4 / HG “D” / SG “C” in the subjects you studied.
- Want to learn about air traffic management.
- Be ready to study in Bonaero Park.
- Be currently unemployed.
- Be willing to move anywhere in South Africa if needed.
- Have never taken a similar ATNS programme before.
- (If you choose the ATSO stream) Be healthy enough to pass a medical test.
If you don’t meet all of these rules, you won’t be able to join.
What papers you’ll need
Send scanned copies of:
- Your South African ID.
- Your Matric certificate.
Incomplete applications won’t be processed.
How to apply
All applications go online.
- Go to the application page here:
Apply for the ATNS Bursary Programme 2026 - Use the reference number atns_000597.
- Make sure to submit before the deadline – 28 February 2026.
Late applications won’t be accepted.
Why a career in air traffic management is a smart choice
People who work in this field keep planes safe and help them land and take off on time. They manage the flow of aircraft across national and international airspace and support the smooth running of airports. A job in this area is respected and offers lots of learning opportunities.
If you’re excited about flight safety, problem‑solving, and technology, this bursary could be the first step toward a rewarding career in the air.
Ready to start?
Take the next step by applying before the deadline. You’ll get free training, a chance to learn from top professionals, and a clear path to a future in aviation.
ATNS is waiting for you.
