Air Traffic Services (ATS) Bursary Program 2026 – ATNS Full Application Guide

The Air Traffic Services (ATS) Bursary Program 2026, offered by Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS), is one of South Africa’s most competitive aviation training opportunities for young, unemployed matriculants. This bursary program provides fully funded specialized training in air traffic management disciplines and leads to potential placement within ATNS based on operational needs.

For 2026, ATNS is offering 117 bursary opportunities, making this an exceptional entry point into the aviation and aerospace sector with no prior work experience required.

About Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS)

ATNS is the organization responsible for managing South Africa’s air traffic and navigation infrastructure. It plays a critical role in ensuring the safety, efficiency, and reliability of airspace operations both locally and across parts of the African continent.

Through the ATS Bursary Program, ATNS develops scarce and critical aviation skills needed to support national and international air traffic operations.

ATS Bursary Program 2026 – Key Details

ATS Bursary Streams Available (2026)

Successful applicants will be trained in one of the following specialized Air Traffic Services streams:

1. Air Traffic Services Officer (ATSO)

2. Aeronautical Information Management Officer (AIMO)

3. Target Generating Officer (TGO)

4. Airport Management Centre (AMC) Liaison Officer

5. Simulator Support Officer (SSO)

Each stream addresses a critical operational need within South Africa’s aviation system.

What the ATS Bursary Program Offers

The program provides extensive theoretical and practical training, including:

• Full-time aviation training at the ATNS Aviation Training Academy

• Exposure to real-world air traffic management environments

• Industry-aligned technical instruction

• Professional development within a highly regulated aviation framework

📌 Placement after training is determined by ATNS operational requirements and performance during training.

Minimum Requirements – Who Can Apply?

To qualify for the ATS Bursary Program 2026, applicants must meet ALL of the following criteria:

✔ South African citizen with a valid ID document
✔ Unemployed South African youth
✔ Matric certificate with:

• Pure Mathematics – Level 4 (50%) or higher

• English – Level 4 (50%) or higher
  ✔ Willing to relocate anywhere in South Africa
  ✔ Medically fit (especially for the ATSO stream)
  ✔ Willing to undergo ATNS medical assessments
  ✔ Must attach Grade 12 results to the application

🚫 Applicants who previously participated in a similar ATNS program will not be considered.

Medical & Fitness Requirements

Certain ATS streams, particularly Air Traffic Services Officer (ATSO), require:

• High medical fitness standards

• Successful completion of aviation-specific medical assessments

Failure to meet medical requirements will result in disqualification, even if academic criteria are met.

Training Location

All successful bursars will complete their training at:

📍 ATNS Aviation Training Academy
📍 Bonaero Park, Gauteng

This is a full-time commitment and requires availability for the entire training duration.

How to Apply for the ATS Bursary Program 2026

Follow these steps carefully to avoid disqualification:

1. Prepare certified copies of your ID and Grade 12 results

2. Ensure your Pure Mathematics and English marks meet requirements

3. Complete the online ATNS application using reference number ATNS_000597

4. Upload all required documents

5. Submit your application before 31 January 2026

⚠️ Incomplete or late applications will not be considered

Why Choose the ATNS ATS Bursary?

• Entry into a high-demand aviation career

• No tuition or training costs

• World-class aviation training

• Exposure to critical national infrastructure

• Potential long-term career opportunities within ATNS

This program is ideal for matriculants with strong mathematics skills who want a structured, professional aviation career.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is the ATS Bursary the same as a learnership?

No. It is a specialized aviation bursary and training program that leads to operational roles within ATNS, not a SETA learnership.

2. Can I apply if I studied Mathematical Literacy?

No. Pure Mathematics is compulsory. Mathematical Literacy is not accepted.

3. Do I need aviation experience to apply?

No prior experience is required. This program is designed for matriculants and unemployed youth.

4. Will I be employed after completing the program?

Placement depends on operational needs and performance, but successful trainees may be considered for roles within ATNS.

5. Can I choose where I will be placed?

No. All bursars must be willing to relocate anywhere in South Africa