The Air Traffic Services (ATS) Bursary 2026 offers 117 funded aviation training opportunities for South African matriculants through ATNS.
For matriculants serious about aviation, this 117 Air Traffic Services (ATS) Bursaries 2026 window matters
For many South African matriculants, aviation feels out of reach — expensive training, limited access, and few funded pathways. That’s why the Air Traffic Services (ATS) Bursary Programme 2026 stands out.
Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) has opened 117 fully funded bursary opportunities for unemployed youth who meet strict academic and medical requirements. With applications closing on 31 January 2026, this is a narrow but significant chance for those with strong Mathematics and English results who are willing to commit to a demanding aviation career.
This programme matters now because ATNS is not just funding studies — it is training future professionals for roles critical to national airspace safety.
What the ATS Bursary Programme is really about
ATNS is responsible for managing and safeguarding South Africa’s airspace. Every commercial flight, cargo aircraft, and emergency operation relies on the systems and professionals trained within this organisation.
The ATS Bursary Programme 2026 is designed to build this future workforce. Successful applicants receive specialised aviation training at the ATNS Aviation Training Academy in Bonaero Park, followed by placement based on operational needs.
This is not a general academic bursary. It is a professional pipeline, structured around discipline, performance, and national aviation requirements. Candidates should expect a highly regulated environment with constant assessments and high expectations.
Aviation streams available under the bursary
The ATS bursary covers five specialised streams, each playing a different role in aviation operations:
- Air Traffic Services Officer (ATSO)
- Aeronautical Information Management Officer (AIMO)
- Target Generating Officer (TGO)
- Airport Management Centre (AMC) Liaison Officer
- Simulator Support Officer (SSO)
Each stream combines theoretical instruction with practical exposure to real aviation systems. Training intensity varies by stream, but all require precision, focus, and an understanding that mistakes in aviation have serious consequences.
Applicants are typically placed based on aptitude, assessment results, and organisational needs, not personal preference alone.
Who should apply — and who should think twice
The ATS Bursary Programme is not suitable for everyone, even if aviation sounds exciting.
You should consider applying if you:
- Recently completed Grade 12
- Achieved Level 4 or higher in Pure Mathematics and English
- Are currently unemployed
- Are medically fit and open to assessments
- Are willing to relocate anywhere in South Africa
- Can handle structured training under pressure
You should reconsider applying if you are unsure about relocation, struggle with disciplined learning environments, or are not prepared for medical and psychometric evaluations.
ATNS has made it clear that previous participants in similar ATNS programmes will not be considered, which keeps the process fair but highly competitive.
Minimum requirements you cannot negotiate
Applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
- South African citizen with a valid ID
- Matric certificate with:
- Pure Mathematics – Level 4 or higher
- English – Level 4 or higher
- Grade 12 results must be attached
- Must be unemployed at the time of application
- Medically fit and willing to undergo assessments
- Willing to relocate nationwide
- No prior participation in ATNS bursary or training programmes
Failure to meet even one requirement usually results in immediate disqualification.
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How the application process works For 117 Air Traffic Services (ATS) Bursaries 2026
Applications for the Air Traffic Services (ATS) Bursary 2026 must be submitted online before 31 January 2026.
Late applications or incomplete submissions are not reviewed.
Before applying, applicants should:
- Double-check Mathematics and English levels
- Upload clear, certified copies of Matric results
- Prepare for medical, psychometric, and selection assessments
This is a multi-stage selection process, and only a small percentage of applicants progress to final placement.
👉 APPLY HERE FOR 117 Air Traffic Services (ATS) Bursaries 2026
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What this bursary does — and does not — guarantee
The ATS bursary offers funded training and structured development, but it does not promise an easy career path.
Training is demanding. Assessment standards are high. Placement depends on organisational needs, not personal convenience.
However, for those who complete the programme successfully, the experience gained places them among a small, highly skilled group operating in one of South Africa’s most critical sectors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the ATS bursary fully funded?
Yes. Training costs are covered by ATNS for successful candidates.
Can I apply with Mathematical Literacy?
No. Only Pure Mathematics at Level 4 or higher is accepted.
Do I choose my aviation stream?
Stream placement depends on assessments and ATNS operational needs.
Is relocation compulsory?
Yes. Candidates must be willing to relocate anywhere in South Africa.
What happens after training?
Placement is aligned with ATNS operational requirements. Employment depends on performance and availability.
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