How to Become an Air Traffic Controller in the UK (2025 Guide)

Air traffic control is one of the most demanding, rewarding and well-paid careers in UK aviation. This guide walks you through every stage of becoming a NATS-qualified air traffic controller in 2025.

What Does an Air Traffic Controller Do?

Air traffic controllers (ATCOs) are responsible for the safe, orderly and expeditious flow of aircraft through the UK's airspace. They issue clearances, sequence traffic, resolve conflicts, and communicate with pilots — often managing multiple aircraft simultaneously under significant time pressure.

There are two main types of ATC in the UK:

En-route controllers work at area control centres (London ATCC at Swanwick and Scottish ATCC at Prestwick), managing high-altitude traffic across large sectors of airspace.

Aerodrome and approach controllers work at airports, managing departures, arrivals and ground movements.

NATS: The Main Employer

The vast majority of UK ATC jobs are with NATS (National Air Traffic Services), which provides ATC at most UK airports and all UK en-route airspace. NATS recruits trainee controllers on a periodic basis — typically every one to two years — and the competition is fierce.

Entry Requirements

To apply as a trainee controller, you need:

NATS does not require a degree, making it an accessible career path from school-leaving age.

The NATS Selection Process — Stage by Stage

Stage 1: Online Aptitude Battery

Completed from home, approximately 75 minutes. Nine tests covering spatial reasoning, numerical ability, logical reasoning, attention and concentration, and reaction speed. This is where the majority of candidates are filtered. Only around 5–10% typically progress. See our dedicated NATS aptitude test guide for what each test involves and how to practise.

Stage 2: Online Situational Judgement and Listening Comprehension

If you pass Stage 1, you are invited to complete a Situational Judgement Test (SJT) and a Listening Comprehension test online.

Stage 3: Assessment Centre

Conducted virtually or in-person. Includes further computer-based ATC aptitude tests (including re-tests of Stage 1 elements under observation), group exercises and a competency-based interview.

Medical and Security Clearance

Successful assessment centre candidates undergo a Class 3 ATCO medical and DBS/security vetting before a formal offer.

NATS College Training

Trainees attend the NATS College of Air Traffic Control in Bournemouth for an initial training course lasting 18 months to 2 years. This combines classroom instruction, simulator exercises and progressive endorsements.

On-the-Job Training

After college, trainees join their operational unit for further on-the-job training and validation checks before qualifying as licensed ATCOs.

Salary

Trainee controllers receive a salary of approximately £23,000–£28,000 during college training. On qualification, salaries typically range from £48,000 to £54,000 depending on posting. Experienced controllers at high-complexity locations such as Heathrow and Swanwick can earn £80,000–£120,000+ with shift premiums and allowances.

How to Prepare

The Stage 1 aptitude battery is the biggest selection hurdle. Focused practice on spatial reasoning, numerical sequences, logical deduction and situational judgement questions — the test types directly assessed in Stage 1 — makes a significant measurable difference to performance.