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Stage 3 practice · Demo

ATC Knowledge Test

Study a set of UK air traffic control fundamentals, then answer questions on them against the clock, without the notes.

What the real test is like

  • NATS lists an Air Traffic Control knowledge test at Stage 3, the virtual assessment centre, alongside an interview and observed retests. It is based on pre-learning material NATS sends to invited candidates.
  • That material isn't public. Candidate reports and study decks point to topics such as ATC in the UK, types of controller, airspace and separation, radar and navaids, weather and aircraft, and earlier candidates mention a few time, speed and distance sums.
  • Prep providers describe it as multiple choice, commonly quoting about 30 questions in around 30 minutes. NATS hasn't published this, and the 2026 format may differ.
  • This is not NATS's material. It practises the same skill: learn a body of ATC knowledge, then recall and apply it quickly. Facts are checked against CAA publications (CAP 413, CAP 493, CAP 746), the UK AIP and Met Office guidance.

How it works

  1. 1Study the notes, with diagrams and key points. Take as long as you need.
  2. 2Quiz with the notes hidden: 60 seconds per question on average, mixing straight recall with applying the rules (decode a METAR, pick a squawk, work out a runway or flight level). Move back and forth and flag questions to revisit.
  3. 3Review every answer with an explanation and a link to the notes it came from.

Try an example (untimed)

A runway's centreline has a magnetic azimuth of 267°. What is its designator?

Demo module

Transponder (squawk) codes

SSR modes, emergency codes 7500/7600/7700, conspicuity codes, Mode C checks

About 5 minutes of notes, then 6 questions in 6:00.

In the full version

11 study modules, 155 written questions plus generated practice sums, and 30- and 60-question timed mixed tests.

  • Radiotelephony basics
  • Altimetry
  • UK airspace
  • Runways and wind
  • Separation and cruising levels
  • Wake turbulence
  • METAR and TAF
  • UK ATC units and roles
  • Radar and navigation aids
  • Time, speed and distance

Your assessment

Don't go in unprepared.

Aptitude tests reward familiarity: knowing the format and pace of each test before the day lets you spend your attention on the questions themselves.

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