East of England · NATS Air Traffic Control
Applying for an ATC role at Stansted?
London Stansted handles over 25 million passengers per year, predominantly low-cost carrier traffic, with rapid turnaround operations and high movement rates. NATS provides ATC and trainee controller recruitment follows the national NATS pathway.
Stansted sits under the complex London TMA. Its single runway operates at extremely high efficiency — controllers must process arrivals and departures at high frequency while coordinating with London ATCC at Swanwick.
The Stage 1 aptitude tests cover spatial reasoning, numerical reasoning, logical reasoning and situational judgement — all practiced on this platform with 155 questions and full explanations.
Practice makes a real difference in the Stage 1 battery. Familiarity with question formats, timed pressure, and practicing mental arithmetic and spatial problems all improve your speed and accuracy on the day.
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 London Stansted 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