South African students aspiring to enter the aviation industry now have a powerful opportunity through the ATNS Bursary for the 2026 academic year. Offered by the Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS), this bursary equips learners with the training and skills to become key professionals in air traffic management.
- About ATNS – The Bursary Provider
- What the ATNS Bursary Covers
- Programmes Covered by the ATNS Bursary
- Who Should Apply?
- Why Choose a Career with ATNS?
- How to Apply for the ATNS Bursary 2026
- Documents Required
- Application Deadline
- Contact Details for Queries
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Tips for a Successful Application
- Don’t Miss This Opportunity
About ATNS – The Bursary Provider
The Air Traffic and Navigation Services SOC Limited (ATNS) is a leading authority in aviation safety, air traffic control, and navigation services across South Africa and parts of the Atlantic and Southern Indian Ocean regions.
ATNS is not only focused on operations but is also a pioneer in aviation training through its Aviation Training Academy (ATA) located in Bonaero Park, Gauteng. The academy trains professionals from across Africa and the Middle East.
What the ATNS Bursary Covers
The ATNS Bursary 2026 covers full academic training in various disciplines within air traffic services. Students selected for the programme will receive tuition and comprehensive technical training at the ATNS Aviation Training Academy.
Bursary benefits may include:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation and meals
- Training materials
- Stipends (where applicable)
- Practical and theoretical instruction
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Programmes Covered by the ATNS Bursary
Successful applicants will be trained for one of the following roles:
- 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 programme is designed to meet ATNS’s operational needs and offers hands-on experience in managing airspace and navigation.
Who Should Apply?
To be considered, applicants must meet several strict eligibility requirements.
Minimum Criteria:
- Be a South African citizen
- Completed Matric
- Achieved Level 4 / HG “D” / SG “C” or higher in both Pure Mathematics and English
- Be unemployed and willing to relocate anywhere in South Africa
- Medically fit (a medical assessment will be required for ATSO applicants)
- Committed to pursuing a career in Air Traffic Management
- Not previously enrolled in any ATNS bursary or programme
Applicants must also commit to full-time study at the ATNS Aviation Training Academy in Gauteng.
Why Choose a Career with ATNS?
ATNS plays a critical role in aviation safety and infrastructure development. A bursary from ATNS is more than just financial aid – it’s a launchpad for a professional career in one of the most respected sectors of the South African economy.
Graduates of the programme will enter a growing field where their skills are in high demand, both locally and abroad.
How to Apply for the ATNS Bursary 2026
All applications must be submitted online. The process is straightforward but must be followed carefully to avoid disqualification.
Step-by-Step Application Guide:
- Visit the official ATNS bursary application page
- Search for the opportunity using reference number: atns_000597
- Select how you heard about the bursary – enter: “https://www.nasi-ispani.co.za/”
- Upload all required documents
- Submit the application before the closing date
Documents Required
Ensure you have certified copies of the following documents:
- South African ID document
- Matric certificate or results
Note: Applications missing any documents will not be considered.
Application Deadline
Closing Date: 31 January 2026
Late submissions will not be accepted under any circumstances. Apply as early as possible to avoid technical issues or missed deadlines.
Contact Details for Queries
For any questions regarding the ATNS Bursary programme, applicants may use the following contact methods:
- Tel: 010 140 3099
- Email: candidate.support@ci.hr
- Online Contact Form: ATNS Contact Us Page
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I apply if I took Mathematical Literacy?
No. Applicants must have passed Pure Mathematics with at least Level 4 or equivalent.
Do I need aviation experience?
No prior experience is needed. The ATNS bursary includes all training required.
Is the bursary open to students already in university?
No. It is open to Matriculants and unemployed youth who meet the eligibility criteria.
Where will training take place?
All training is done at the ATNS Aviation Training Academy in Bonaero Park, Gauteng.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Apply early to avoid last-minute issues
- Ensure all documents are certified and clearly scanned
- Check your email regularly for application updates
- Only apply if you meet all eligibility criteria
This bursary is highly competitive – attention to detail matters.
Don’t Miss This Opportunity
The ATNS Bursary is more than just funding; it’s a path to a career that shapes aviation safety and efficiency in South Africa and beyond. With only 117 bursaries available, applicants must act swiftly and ensure all requirements are met.