Apply for the ATNS Air Traffic Services Bursary Program (117 opportunities). Gain world-class aviation training at the Aviation Training Academy in Gauteng. Open to unemployed South African youth with a Matric (Pure Maths & English Level 4+). Career streams include ATSO, AIMO, TGO, AMC, and SSO. Apply by 31 January 2026.
Program Overview
- Company: Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS)
- Location: Training at Bonaero Park (Gauteng); Placement nationwide.
- Opportunities: 117 bursaries across four intakes for the financial year.
- Closing Date: 31 January 2026
Introduction to ATNS
ATNS is the pillar of South African aviation safety, ensuring the orderly flow of air traffic. This bursary provides a gateway for matriculants and graduates to enter the high-stakes, high-reward world of Air Traffic Management (ATM).
Available Career Streams
Successful candidates will be trained in one of the following five specialized streams:
- Air Traffic Services Officer (ATSO): Supporting air traffic controllers in maintaining safe separation between aircraft.
- Aeronautical Information Management Officer (AIMO): Managing the flow of information necessary for the safety and efficiency of international air navigation.
- Target Generating Officer (TGO): Simulating aircraft “targets” for radar training and system testing.
- Airport Management Centre (AMC) Liaison Officer: Coordinating ground operations and airport flow management.
- Simulator Support Officer (SSO): Managing the technical systems used for high-fidelity pilot and controller training.
Requirements & Eligibility
To be considered for these highly competitive spots, you must meet the following criteria:
Educational Requirements (Grade 12)
| Subject | Minimum Requirement |
| Pure Mathematics | Level 4 (HG – D or SG – C / 50%+) |
| English | Level 4 (HG – D or SG – C / 50%+) |
Note: Mathematical Literacy will not be accepted; Pure Mathematics is a strict requirement for aviation safety standards.
General Requirements
- Citizenship: Must be a South African citizen with a valid ID.
- Age/Status: Unemployed South African youth.
- Health: Must be medically fit and willing to undergo a specialized medical assessment (specifically for the ATSO stream).
- Flexibility: Must be willing to relocate anywhere in South Africa for operational placement after training.
- Exclusion: Applicants who have previously participated in a similar ATNS program are not eligible.
Application Checklist
Ensure you have the following ready to upload:
- Updated CV.
- Copy of your South African ID.
- Official Grade 12 results (Matric Certificate).
The Training Experience
Trainees will undergo extensive theoretical and practical training at the Aviation Training Academy in Kempton Park. This includes exposure to advanced radar systems, flight planning, and international aviation regulations.