ATC Guide

What is the Eurocontrol FEAST Test? A Complete Guide (2026)

·9 min read

Everything you need to know about the FEAST aptitude test used by 50+ European ANSPs — what it measures, how it works, and how to prepare effectively.

The FEAST test is the standard aptitude assessment used to select trainee air traffic controllers across most of Europe. If you are applying to a European ANSP, understanding FEAST is the first step in your preparation.

What Does FEAST Stand For?

FEAST stands for First European Air Traffic Controller Selection Test. It was developed by Eurocontrol and has assessed over 100,000 ATC candidates across 40 countries since the 1990s.

Who Uses the FEAST Test?

FEAST is used by over 50 ANSPs in 40 countries. Major users include Germany (DFS), Netherlands (LVNL), Austria (Austro Control), Belgium (skeyes), Switzerland (Skyguide), Sweden (LFV), Norway (Avinor), Poland (PANSA), Croatia, Hungary, Denmark, Finland, Czech Republic, Romania, Serbia, Malta, Slovakia and Bulgaria. France and the UK use their own national selection systems.

What Does FEAST I Include?

FEAST I is the core cognitive aptitude battery, typically taking 2.5-4 hours. It includes spatial reasoning, numerical reasoning, abstract/logical reasoning, multitasking, memory, situational judgement and an English language assessment.

What is FEAST II?

FEAST II adds two interactive simulations used by some ANSPs: Multipass (multitasking) and DART (Dynamic ATC Radar Test), where candidates manage aircraft separation in a radar simulation.

How Difficult is FEAST?

Pass rates are consistently low — typically only 20-40% of candidates pass all FEAST I tests. Candidates who prepare extensively across all test areas perform measurably better. ATC Practice covers all four main FEAST I cognitive areas plus a Switch dual-task simulation.

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