They are a wholly owned subsidiary of The Civil Aviation Authority. A few controllers work for other air traffic control service companies. Training Initial training for student entry with NATS is at the College of Air Traffic Control and lasts for 75 weeks. The course includes periods of practical experience and students receive 15 hours flying training. After initial training, further specialist courses may be taken to reach higher grades.
Promotion is to management and planning posts.
The salary data was collected in Jul 99 Salaries quoted include unsocial hours payment for shift working posts of 3,891. Working hours and conditions Typically includes regular unsocial hours Controllers work either in control towers with overview of airport, or with radar in approach or area control rooms. They sit in a fixed position all the time and operate a 24-hour shift system. Jobs are restricted locations Opportunities at control centres. Also at airports.