Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) invites unemployed South African youth to apply for the Air Traffic Services Bursar / Trainee Programme 2026. A total of 117 bursary opportunities are available for candidates who wish to pursue a career in air traffic management and related aviation services.
The programme offers successful candidates the opportunity to study at the Aviation Training Academy in Bonaero Park and receive extensive training and exposure across various air traffic management disciplines.
Trainee Programme Application Closing Date: 31 January 2026
Training Location: Bonaero Park, Kempton Park, Gauteng, South Africa
Placement Location: National (placement will be based on ATNS operational requirements)
About the ATNS Trainee Programme 2026
The ATNS Trainee Programme is a structured bursary initiative designed to develop critical aviation skills for South Africa’s airspace management system. Successful candidates will undergo intensive theoretical and practical training over a specified period, preparing them for deployment within ATNS operations across the country.
Available Air Traffic Services bursar streams
Applicants may apply for the following bursary streams:
- Air Traffic Services Officer (ATSO)
- Aeronautical Information Management Officer (AIMO)
- Target Generating Officer (TGO)
- Airport Management Centre (AMC) Liaison Officer
- Simulator Support Officer (SSO)
Minimum requirements
To be considered for the ATNS Trainee Programme 2026, applicants must meet all of the following requirements:
- Grade 12 / Matric certificate with passes in:
- Pure Mathematics: Level 4 (HG D / SG C or above)
- English: Level 4 (HG D / SG C or above)
- South African citizen with a valid ID document
- Unemployed South African youth
- Medically fit and willing to undergo a medical assessment (especially for the ATSO stream)
- Willingness to relocate anywhere in South Africa
- Grade 12 results must be attached to the application
⚠️ NB: Applicants who have previously participated in a similar ATNS programme will not be considered.
What successful candidates can expect
- Fully funded aviation-related training
- Study at the ATNS Aviation Training Academy
- Exposure to real-world air traffic management operations
- National placement aligned to operational requirements
- Entry into one of South Africa’s most critical and specialised sectors
This programme offers a rare opportunity to build a long-term career in aviation and air navigation services.
How to apply
Click here to apply for ATNS Trainee Programme 2026
Ensure that all required documents are uploaded and that your application is submitted before 31 January 2026. Late applications will not be accepted.
Important notes
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
- Training and placement will be aligned to ATNS operational needs
- Candidates must be available for the full duration of training