Jump into a Career in Aviation with the ATS Bursary Programme
If you’re a South African high‑school graduate who loves planes and dreams of helping pilots stay safe, the Air Traffic Services (ATS) Bursary Programme might be your ticket. This programme is run by ATNS SOC Limited and gives students a full‑time, fully paid training path to become an Air Traffic Services Officer. It covers all the classroom learning and hands‑on practice you need to manage aircraft traffic, work in an airport control tower, or support flight crews. The best part? You don’t have to pay anything.
What is the ATS Bursary Programme?
The ATS Bursary is a complete scholarship that pays for everything you need to study and work in the aviation field. You’ll learn:
- Air traffic control (ATC) – keeping planes safe while they take off, land, or fly between cities.
- Aerodrome control – managing traffic at airports.
- Approach control – guiding planes as they get ready to land.
- En‑route control – helping planes stay on track during long flights.
The training happens at the ATNS Aviation Training Academy in Bonaero Park, Gauteng, a top‑class school that meets the standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). The programme is especially focused on giving chances to young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, so it’s a great way to build a diverse and fair workforce in South Africa’s skies.
Bursary Streams
If you finish the training, you can become one of several types of aviation professionals:
- Air Traffic Services Officer (ATSO)
- Aeronautical Information Management Officer (AIMO)
- Target Generating Officer (TGO)
- Airport Management Centre (AMC) Liaison Officer
- Simulator Support Officer (SSO)
What the Bursary Covers
All the basic costs are taken care of so you can focus on learning:
- Tuition – all course fees at the academy.
- Living expenses – room and board while you study.
- Transport – a monthly allowance for travel.
- Equipment – training materials and uniforms.
- Money – a regular stipend to help you live comfortably.
- Health support – medical aid and counselling services.
Because every need is covered, you can dive into your studies without worrying about money.
Who Can Apply?
You should check if you meet these simple requirements before you apply:
- High‑school diploma (Matric) – you need to have passed Pure Mathematics and English at a good level (Level 4 or Higher Grade, with a D or higher, or a C or higher in Standard Grade).
- Citizen of South Africa – with a valid ID.
- Fit for work – you must pass a medical exam for the ATSO stream.
- Provide your grades – attach your Grade 12 results with your application.
- Ready to move – you can relocate anywhere in the country.
- Unemployed youth – the programme is meant for people who haven’t started a job yet.
- First‑time applicants – if you’ve already been on a similar ATNS programme, you can’t re‑apply.
You’ll also need to show that you really want a career in aviation, can stay calm when pressure builds, and can communicate well.
How to Apply
Getting into the programme is a step‑by‑step process:
- Fill out the online form – start by creating a profile and entering your details.
- Upload ID and grades – bring certified copies of your ID card and Matric results.
- Take the aptitude test – if you pass, you’ll be invited to the next stage.
- Medical check‑up – a doctor will verify you’re fit for the job.
- Panel interview – a small group of recruiters will talk to you.
Because many people want the same chance, it’s best to finish your application early and double‑check every document.
Ready to apply?
Apply for the ATS Bursary Programme for 2026
Why This Matters
When you finish the training, you’re not left on your own. ATNS usually hires graduates as trainee air traffic controllers or flight information officers. From there, you can grow into senior jobs that keep South Africa’s skies safe and efficient. The programme is more than a scholarship – it’s a springboard into one of the most thrilling and important jobs in the world.
If you’ve always been fascinated by planes but worry about money, this bursary could be the launchpad you need.
Application Deadline: 31 January 2026
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Verify the Opportunity
| Key Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Organisation | Air Traffic Services (ATS) |
| Source | Official website/career portal |
| Apply via | Online portal |
| Reference | atns_000597 |
Note: This is a risk assessment. Always double‑check official sources before you share personal details or pay any fees.
