Want to train as an Air Traffic Controller and get funded for it?
The ATNS Bursary is open for 2026, and it’s a rare chance for students who want to work in aviation. The program helps you become a qualified Air Traffic Services Officer without paying the fees yourself. It’s not just a study bursary. It’s a real path to a career in the sky.
Offered by Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS), this bursary comes with full academic and practical support. It’s based at their academy in Kempton Park, and it’s open to students who show focus, discipline, and a strong maths background.
Once accepted, you will join the ATS Bursary Program to study for the Aerodrome and Approach Control rating. It’s a tough but rewarding path. ATNS covers your tuition, accommodation, and even travel needs while you’re in training.
Only South African citizens can apply for this opportunity. You must have completed matric with passes in key subjects like Maths and English. No prior aviation experience is needed, just a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn. For full requirement details, read further below.
Applications are already open and will close on 31 January 2026. That gives you time to prepare, but not to wait. If aviation is something you’re serious about, then this could be the opening you’ve been hoping for.
Important Steps for ATNS Bursary
- Company- ATNS
- Air Traffic Services (ATS) Bursary Program
- Location- Kempton Park
- Applications close- 31 January 2026
- Click for the Latest Bursary
ATNS Bursary Requirements
This bursary is meant for unemployed South African youth who want a career in aviation.
To qualify, you must:
- Have a Matric certificate
- Have Pure Mathematics with Level 4 or above
- Have English with Level 4 or above
- Be a South African citizen with a valid ID
- Be medically fit for air traffic control duties
- Be willing to relocate to any part of the country
- Not have been on an ATNS bursary programme before
Attach your Grade 12 results with your application.
Study Air Traffic Services for Free in Gauteng
Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) is opening doors for youth across South Africa. They are offering 117 bursary opportunities in the Air Traffic Services (ATS) Bursary Programme.
This bursary includes full study support at the ATNS Aviation Training Academy in Bonaero Park, Gauteng. Training will cover key roles in air traffic safety, operations, and airport control systems.
What Makes This Bursary Special?
ATNS is one of the most trusted names in South African aviation. This programme is fully funded and gives direct access to practical aviation training.
It offers placement into roles like:
- Air Traffic Services Officer (ATSO)
- Aeronautical Information Management Officer (AIMO)
- Target Generating Officer (TGO)
- Airport Management Centre Liaison Officer (AMC)
- Simulator Support Officer (SSO)
Training is extensive, and the environment is fast-paced and rewarding.
What You’ll Gain
This isn’t just a bursary-it’s career development. You will:
- Get hands-on training at a national aviation academy
- Learn from real-world scenarios in air traffic control
- Become part of a select group of aviation professionals
- Have the chance to be placed into full-time roles after training
Every intake is matched to operational needs, which improves your employment chances.
Application Tips
Many applicants get rejected due to small mistakes. Follow these tips:
- Submit clear Grade 12 results showing Maths and English marks
- Make sure your contact details are correct
- If applying for the ATSO stream, prepare for the medical assessment
- Apply early to avoid last-minute site issues or missing documents
How to Apply for the ATNS Bursary 2026
The process is simple, but you must act before the deadline.
Applications close: 31 January 2026
Location: Kempton Park
Type: Fixed-term contract
Listing reference: atns_000597
Visit the official ATNS careers portal. Search for the Air Traffic Services Bursary Programme and fill out the application form.
Make sure all your documents are scanned clearly and uploaded in the right format.
Final Thoughts
This bursary is more than funding-it’s a gateway into aviation. South Africa needs trained professionals in air safety. ATNS is making that possible with 117 new slots.
If you’ve ever dreamed of working at the heart of aviation, this is your chance.
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I’m Amandeep Singh, and I run this (Protesta) site to help South Africans find real job, internship, and learnership opportunities. I only share verified info from official sources. My goal is to keep everything simple, clear, and useful for students and young professionals. I’ve been posting updates like these for years to make the search easier. If you have questions or tips, feel free to reach out.
