New air traffic controllers usually work at a regional control tower, dealing mostly with domestic flights. Find out more about the sources of our job opportunities information) Progression and specialisations

de Lambert, K, head of training, Airways International, interview, July 2023.

Airways International website, accessed July 2023, (.

Airways New Zealand website, accessed July 2023, (.

One employer of air traffic controllersĪll air traffic controllers work for Airways New Zealand. Virtual control towers are being trialled, which could mean controllers monitor air traffic from remote locations in the future. New technology in air traffic management systems, set to be introduced over the next 10 years, could result in a reduction in demand for air traffic controllers in the long term.

New technology will change air traffic controllers' work Trainees who successfully complete the programme and meet other requirements usually get a job.ģ41 air traffic controllers worked in New Zealand in 2023. Limited entry to trainingĪirways International, the commercial arm of Airways New Zealand, only takes 12-24 trainees into its air traffic control training programme each year. Entry is very competitive. Therefore there is high competition for any vacancies. Most air traffic controllers stay in the role for a long time so there is low staff turnover. Vacancies for air traffic controllers are limited due to the small number of people in the role. What are the chances of getting a job? High competition for air traffic controller roles clear communicators and able to work well with others.Īir traffic controllers need to have a good amount of common sense, be able to stay calm under pressure, and be good at making decisions.able to learn theory and apply it in practical situations.

able to remain calm under pressure and adapt quickly to changing situations.very organised, with the ability to prioritise, plan and make decisions.Useful subjects include English and maths.

NCEA Level 3 is required to enter tertiary training. If you're under 20 years old, you can do a Bachelor of Aviation Management at Massey University for two years before applying for the air traffic control training programme. be able to pass the Civil Aviation Authority medical certificate and requirements to be a fit and proper person.have NCEA Level 3 or equivalent – or hold a personal or commercial pilot licence and have work experience.pass aptitude tests, interviews and group exercises.be either a New Zealand or Australian citizen or a permanent resident.To get into the training programme you must: a licence issued by the New Zealand Civil Aviation Authority.Īir traffic control training is operated by Airways International, with two programme intakes a year.an airport security clearance and pass Civil Aviation Authority requirements.completed courses and qualifications in air traffic services including a 9-month course in Christchurch and field training at a regional airport.To become an air traffic controller you need to have: If you have a passion for aviation and are motivated, then this could easily be the career for you.” “Air traffic controllers need to have a good amount of common sense, be able to stay calm under pressure, and be good at making decisions. “You never take work home with you, as soon as you walk out the door, that’s it.” You’ve got to stay calm and make good decisions We generally work four days on, two days off, with maximum seven-and-a-half hour shifts. “Air traffic controllers have strict duty times to reduce tiredness. “Every day brings something different and I love the challenge of quickly coming up with a solution to a complex traffic situation and then moving on to the next – it’s like solving a three-dimensional puzzle.” Fantastic work-life balance “A typical day essentially involves preventing collisions between aircraft, whether they are on the ground or in the air. Since then, George has successfully completed his training and now keeps air traffic moving as a fully-qualified air traffic controller. George Perigo always had a passion for aviation, so when he read about being an air traffic controller he knew it was the career for him.

Air traffic controller salary uk