Air Traffic Services Bursary Programme 2026 – Apply Now!

🔎 Bursary Details

🏢 Organisation: Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS)
🎓 Programme Name: Air Traffic Services (ATS) Bursary Programme
📍 Training Location: Bonaero Park, Gauteng
📄 Contract Type: Fixed-Term Training Contract
📅 Closing Date: 31 January 2026
📑 Reference Number: atns_000597

About Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS)

Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) is a state-owned aviation organisation responsible for the safe, orderly, and efficient management of air traffic within South Africa’s airspace and surrounding regions. ATNS plays a critical role in aviation safety, air navigation, and airspace management, supporting both domestic and international aviation operations.

Through structured training and development programmes, ATNS invests in building future aviation professionals to support South Africa’s growing aviation sector.

About the ATS Bursary Programme

The Air Traffic Services (ATS) Bursary Programme offers 117 bursary opportunities to unemployed South African youth who are interested in pursuing a career in aviation and air traffic management. The programme will run across four bursary intakes during the financial year.

Successful bursars will receive intensive theoretical and practical training at the Aviation Training Academy in Bonaero Park, Gauteng. Upon completion of training, placement will be determined based on ATNS operational requirements across South Africa.

Available Bursary Streams

• 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 Programme Offers

• Structured aviation training aligned to industry and regulatory standards

• Exposure to air traffic management operations and systems

• Access to specialised aviation facilities and simulators

• Practical and theoretical learning under qualified instructors

• Opportunity to build a long-term career within the aviation industry

Minimum Requirements

• Matric certificate with passes in:

  • Pure Mathematics (Level 4 / HG D or SG C or above)

  • English (Level 4 / HG D or SG C or above)

• South African citizen with a valid South African ID

• Medically fit and willing to undergo medical assessments (especially for ATSO stream)

• Unemployed South African youth

• Willingness to relocate anywhere in South Africa

• Must attach Grade 12 results when applying

• Applicants who have previously participated in a similar ATNS programme will not be considered

Application Tips

• Ensure your Grade 12 results are clearly uploaded and readable

• Double-check that Mathematics and English meet the required levels

• Prepare for possible medical and aptitude assessments

• Apply early to avoid system delays close to the closing date

• Use only the official ATNS application portal

Company Policy

ATNS is committed to developing South Africa’s future aviation professionals through structured training and skills development programmes. Selection is based strictly on meeting minimum academic, medical, and programme requirements, as well as organisational capacity.

If you do not receive feedback after the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Employment Equity Statement

ATNS supports transformation and equal opportunity in line with national legislation. All qualifying applicants will be considered fairly in accordance with organisational policies and operational requirements.