Air traffic controller

Level

Higher

Length

1.3 yr

typical

Sector

Transport and logistics

Pay

Paid

you earn while training

In a nutshell

Directing aircraft on the ground and through controlled airspace.

Issue routing, altitude, and speed instructions to aircraft by radio

Monitor radar displays and maintain safe separation between aircraft

Coordinate with adjacent sectors and control units on traffic flow

Issue weather information, NOTAMs, and runway-in-use to pilots

Manage multiple aircraft simultaneously during peak traffic periods

Respond to declared emergencies following established ATC procedures

Maintain accurate strip or electronic flight data records throughout shifts

Air traffic management principles and controlled airspace procedures

Radar and non-radar separation standards and techniques

Radiotelephony phraseology and pilot-controller communication

Meteorology and its effect on flight and air traffic management

Emergency and abnormal situation procedures in ATC

Flight planning, airways, and navigation aids

Regulations and standards set by the CAA and EUROCONTROL

Ready to look for a place?

See live Air traffic controller apprenticeship vacancies on the official government service.

A Careermash concept · apprenticeship standard from our careers engine · vacancies via gov.uk.