East Midlands · NATS Air Traffic Control
Applying for an ATC role at East Midlands Airport?
East Midlands Airport is one of the UK's major cargo hubs and handles over 4 million passengers a year. It operates 24 hours a day, making it particularly significant for cargo operations. ATC at East Midlands is provided under the NATS framework.
East Midlands sits in the busy central England airspace under the London TMA. Controllers manage a mix of scheduled passenger, charter and cargo traffic, with overnight freight operations creating a distinctive traffic profile.
NATS Stage 1 covers nine cognitive tests including spatial reasoning, numerical reasoning and logical reasoning. ATC Practice provides targeted practice for all four main test types with 155 questions and full explanations.
Practicing under timed conditions is the most effective preparation for Stage 1. Each ATC Practice session is timed and draws a randomised question set — reflecting the real conditions of the assessment.
What's included in ATC Practice
Spatial Reasoning
40 questions · 20 min
Numerical Reasoning
40 questions · 20 min
Logical Reasoning
40 questions · 20 min
Situational Judgement
35 questions · 25 min
NDB Direction
24 questions
Switch — Dual Task
6 rounds
About NATS Stage 1 selection
What tests are in the NATS Stage 1 aptitude assessment?
The NATS Stage 1 online assessment covers spatial reasoning, numerical reasoning, logical reasoning and situational judgement. These cognitive aptitudes are proven predictors of air traffic control training success. Candidates who practice under timed conditions perform significantly better.
How competitive is NATS air traffic controller selection?
NATS receives thousands of applications each year for a limited number of trainee places, making it one of the most competitive selection processes in UK aviation. Strong aptitude-test performance at Stage 1 is essential to progress to the assessment centre.
Do I need experience or a degree to apply?
No. NATS does not require a degree or prior aviation experience for trainee air traffic controller roles. You typically need to be 18 or over and meet GCSE requirements in maths and English, along with medical and eyesight standards. Selection is based primarily on aptitude.
What does ATC Practice include?
ATC Practice covers Spatial Reasoning, Numerical Reasoning, Logical Reasoning, Situational Judgement, NDB Direction and a dual-task simulation — all timed, full-length and with explanations. One payment of £10 gives unlimited access with no subscription.
Start practicing for East Midlands Airport today
One payment of £10 gives you unlimited access to all the NATS Stage 1 practice simulations. No subscription, access never expires.
Get full access — £10↩ 14-day satisfaction guarantee · No subscription