The Air Traffic and Navigation Services Trainee Programme 2026 offers funded aviation training for unemployed South African youth, with placement aligned to national air traffic and aviation operations.
Air Traffic and Navigation Services Trainee Programme 2026 Overview
Air Traffic and Navigation Services has opened applications for its Trainee Programme for the 2026 intake. This programme provides bursary-funded aviation training to unemployed South African youth who meet the academic and eligibility requirements and who are interested in building long-term careers within the aviation sector.
A total of 117 trainee opportunities are available. Successful candidates will undergo structured training at a specialised aviation academy before being placed in operational roles according to organisational and national requirements.
About Air Traffic and Navigation Services
Air Traffic and Navigation Services is South Africa’s state-owned provider of air navigation services. The organisation is responsible for managing the country’s airspace and ensuring the safe, orderly, and efficient movement of aircraft.
Its services include air traffic control, aeronautical information management, navigation, surveillance, and communication services that support both domestic and international aviation operations. Safety, regulatory compliance, and operational excellence remain central to its mandate.
Purpose of the Trainee Programme
The Trainee Programme is designed to develop future aviation professionals who can support South Africa’s air traffic management system. It focuses on long-term skills development through funded training and structured exposure to operational aviation environments.
Trainees are prepared for roles that are safety-critical and require high levels of discipline, accuracy, and technical competence.
Training Location and Programme Structure
All successful candidates will complete their training at the ATNS Aviation Training Academy in Bonaero Park, Gauteng. Training is conducted in line with aviation regulations and international industry standards.
Following the training phase, placement is determined by operational needs. Trainees must be willing to relocate anywhere in South Africa, depending on where skills are required.
Available Air Traffic Services Streams
The programme offers entry into several specialised aviation streams, each contributing to safe and efficient airspace management.
Air Traffic Services Officer (ATSO)
This stream focuses on air traffic control duties and the management of aircraft movements within controlled airspace.
Aeronautical Information Management Officer (AIMO)
Responsible for managing and distributing essential aeronautical information used by pilots and aviation stakeholders.
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Target Generating Officer (TGO)
Supports surveillance and monitoring systems used to track aircraft movements.
Airport Management Centre (AMC) Liaison Officer
Acts as a coordination point between airport operations and air traffic services.
Simulator Support Officer (SSO)
Provides operational and technical support for aviation simulation training systems.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet all of the following requirements.
Academic Requirements
- Grade 12 / Matric certificate
- Pure Mathematics at Level 4 or higher
- English at Level 4 or higher
Eligibility Criteria
- South African citizen with a valid identity document
- Unemployed at the time of application
- Willing to relocate anywhere in South Africa
Medical and Compliance Requirements
- Must be medically fit
- Willing to undergo aviation medical assessments, particularly for the ATSO stream
- Grade 12 results must be attached to the application
Applicants who have previously participated in a similar ATNS programme will not be considered.
Selection and Training Outcomes
Successful candidates will undergo intensive training and exposure to various aspects of air traffic and aviation operations. Due to the safety-critical nature of the work, assessments are rigorous and aligned with aviation regulatory standards.
Placement after training is based strictly on operational requirements and national aviation needs.
Application Process
Applications must be submitted through the official ATNS online application platform.
Applicants are responsible for ensuring that all information and required documents are submitted accurately.
The closing date for applications is 28 February 2026.
Career Value of the Programme
This trainee programme offers a funded entry point into one of South Africa’s most specialised and regulated industries. Participants gain access to professional aviation training, operational exposure, and structured development within a national aviation institution.
Graduates of the programme are equipped with specialised skills that support long-term careers in air traffic management, aeronautical services, and broader aviation operations.
Conclusion
The Air Traffic and Navigation Services Trainee Programme 2026 provides unemployed South African youth with a credible pathway into the aviation sector through structured, funded training. With multiple specialist streams and national placement opportunities, the programme plays a critical role in developing future aviation professionals.
For candidates with strong academic foundations, discipline, and an interest in aviation safety and operations, this programme offers a meaningful opportunity to enter a highly specialised and respected career field.
I will like to know if someone with a mat lit of level 5 can be considered for admission
afikilesmundela865@gmail.com