Applying for an ATC role at Exeter Airport?
Exeter Airport serves the South-West peninsula and the Channel Islands, with a mix of domestic, European and general aviation traffic. ATC services follow the NATS framework, and candidates must pass the Stage 1 aptitude battery to progress.
Exeter's proximity to the Atlantic approaches and busy summer charter traffic creates a varied and interesting airspace environment. Controllers work with a mix of commercial and general aviation traffic in an area with significant weather variability.
Stage 1 of NATS recruitment is completed online before an invitation to the assessment centre. ATC Practice covers all four major test types with 155 questions and detailed explanations.
Timed practice is essential for success in Stage 1. ATC Practice's timed test mode replicates the time pressure of the real assessment, building both speed and accuracy.
NATS Stage 1 preparation
What to practise before your test
Spatial Reasoning
40 questions · 20 minutes
Aircraft headings, radar bearings, and 3D spatial visualisation.
Try free demo →Numerical Reasoning
40 questions · 20 minutes
Data tables, charts, and numerical calculations under time pressure.
Try free demo →Logical Reasoning
40 questions · 20 minutes
Pattern sequences, deductions, and abstract problem solving.
Try free demo →Situational Judgement
35 questions · 25 minutes
Workplace scenarios — assess and select the most appropriate response.
Try free demo →FAQ
Common questions
What aptitude tests does NATS use for ATC recruitment?
NATS uses the Aon aptitude test battery for Stage 1 selection, covering spatial reasoning, numerical reasoning, logical reasoning, and situational judgement — all completed online in approximately 75 minutes.
How competitive is NATS ATC recruitment?
NATS ATC recruitment is highly competitive. Only a small percentage of applicants progress through all stages. Strong aptitude test performance is essential — targeted practice gives you a significant advantage.
What happens after I pay for ATC Practice?
You get instant access to all four full-length timed practice tests and the 40-question competency interview bank. Access never expires and you can retake tests as many times as you like.
Can I get a refund?
If you're not happy with the product, contact us within 7 days and we'll make it right — either by resolving the issue or issuing a full refund.
Ready to practise?
Full-length timed simulations of all four NATS aptitude tests. One payment, unlimited attempts.
Get started — £24.99