How to Become an Air Traffic Controller in Europe (2026 Guide)
A country-by-country guide to becoming an ATC in Europe, covering FEAST test requirements, major ANSPs, training pathways and salaries across Germany, Netherlands, Austria, Switzerland and more.
Becoming an air traffic controller in Europe is one of the most rewarding careers in aviation. Many European air navigation service providers use the EUROCONTROL FEAST tests to select trainee controllers.
The Common Starting Point: FEAST
Across most of Europe, the route to becoming an ATC starts with FEAST (First European Air Traffic Controller Selection Test). EUROCONTROL lists 56 organisations that use it. Each organisation chooses which FEAST tests it uses and sets its own pass threshold, so check your provider's own information — and use EUROCONTROL's free official practice alongside other FEAST-style practice.
Germany — DFS Deutsche Flugsicherung
DFS manages one of Europe's largest airspaces including Frankfurt, Munich and Düsseldorf. DFS runs its own training academy. Controller pay in Germany is among the highest in European aviation; check DFS's careers pages for current figures.
Netherlands — LVNL
LVNL provides ATC at Amsterdam Schiphol, one of Europe's busiest airports.
Austria — Austro Control
Austro Control manages Austrian airspace including complex Alpine transit flows.
Switzerland — Skyguide
Skyguide covers Zurich, Geneva and alpine transit routes.
Belgium — skeyes
skeyes manages one of the most congested airspaces in Europe relative to its size.
Common Requirements Across Europe
The pattern is broadly similar: an application, aptitude tests (often FEAST), interviews, a Class 3 medical and background checks, then a paid training programme. Details vary by provider, so always check their current requirements. Salaries also vary widely; check each provider's careers pages for current figures.
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