A job that makes a difference

 

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The most visible part of aviation in New Zealand are the aircraft flying around our skies. For the most part, these aircraft are controlled by Air Traffic Controllers (ATC's) working in towers around the country and the radar centre (Christchurch), although airspace in NZ is made up of both controlled and uncontrolled airspace.

Trainee Air Traffic Controller Careers

Welcome to Airways. You've just landed at the destination where you'll find all the information you need to help your future take off.

Whether you've already thought about becoming an Air Traffic Controller (ATC), or are just exploring the possibility, you're about to discover that it's a career that provides an impressive mix of challenge, opportunity and reward.

 

 

 

 

So, before you start navigating air traffic with us, navigate your way around this site to learn what an ATC career is all about, what you need to do it and how far an ATC career can take you. Along the way you'll find informative videos, through which you'll meet some of the team. (If you're in a hurry, why not start with the FAQ's).

Trainee Career Progression

The following diagram shows a typical career progression of a trainee. A summary of each stage is also detailed below.

Apply

If you want to become a Trainee Air Traffic Controller you'll need to apply!

Before you apply make sure you fit the requirements

Please note: While we encourage people to apply now, please be aware that the application process can take 6 - 12 months.

The application process involves a series of steps where applicants are tested on various abilities that are needed in Air Traffic Control. A summary of the application process is available here>>

If you are ready click here to apply to Train to become an Air Traffic Controller

Become a Trainee

Once you pass through the application process you'll be offered the chance to become a trainee.

As a Trainee you'll join us on one of our 12 month Training Courses at our Christchurch Campus. Each Trainee Course normally contains 10-12 Trainees at a time. More information on what training you'll be doing can be found here >>

6 Months Training in Christchurch

Training begins in Christchurch where you'll be working on our simulators and theory classes to bring you up to speed on Air Traffic Control and what your future role will be. More information on what training you'll be doing can be found here >>

6 Months On-the-job Training

Once you have successfully completed your initial 6 months training, you'll be posted out to one of our regional Air Traffic Control towers to learn with real Air Traffic Controllers and real aeroplanes. More information on what training you'll be doing can be found here >>

Become an ATC at Airways

Once you have successfully completed your On-the-job training you'll be guaranteed the offer of a job subject to:

• Obtaining an ATC License (see eligibility conditions)
• Recommendation from the Training Centre and your OJTI Instructors that you've demonstrated suitable behaviour to be an Airways employee
• A pre-employment drug test
• A Ministry of Justice criminal records check

To find out what sort of things you'll be able to do once you qualify please refer to these pages >>

 

 

 

 

 

Learn More

To learn more about this exciting career option please watch the media below or use the menu to the left which should supply you with all you need to get applying!

Let Emily introduce you to Air Traffic Controlling

media type: .flv, file size: 15.6mb

 

 

 

Learn more about an ATC Career

media type: .wmv, file size: 13mb

 

 

Trainee ATC Quick Links

 

 

Tales From the Tower

Alice Palmer

Alice Palmer is living proof that complaining about your job can change your life! Alice was working at an entry-level government job in Wellington.
More >>

 

 

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Karen Bradley

Karen Bradley has traded apertures for aircraft with the help of Airways New Zealand.
More >>

 

 

 

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Oliver Gibbs

Oliver Gibbs is fairly new to air traffic control (ATC).
More >>

 

 

 

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