An Air Traffic Controller/ Air Traffic Control Officer (ATCO) is a technical specialist who manages air traffic on and within the vicinity of an airport according to established procedures & policies to prevent collisions and minimize delays arising from traffic congestion.
Who are ATCOs?
ATCOs ensure the safety of aviation passengers every day and billions of people per year. They use their skills and judgment to safely direct thousands of flights daily to their destinations.
You will be responsible for the safe, orderly, and expeditious movement of air traffic through the nation's airspace. As an ATCO you will provide service to all aircraft arriving, departing or operating in the vicinity of an airport.
What about Air Traffic Management in India?
ATM (Air Traffic Management) in India is controlled by the Airports Authority of India. Air Traffic Management is controlled by AAI but of course, unlike railways, the aircrafts that we see are not owned by it. They are owned by the individual carriers like Air India, Vistara, Akasa, Indigo etc. However, all ATM jobs are listed on the government portal and you will have to attempt the ATC written exam if you want to get recruited as a Junior Executive or Manager.
Jobs in India are fewer compared to other first nations. This is primarily because the ATM infrastructure in the country is not as upgraded yet in terms of automation systems & technology for example, complete shifting from ground-based navigation to satellite-based navigation.
What about jobs and exams?
Information regarding recruitment to all related posts is regularly updated on the official website of AAI (Airports Authority of India). To become an Air Traffic Controller in India, you must apply to a job posting, take the Civil ATC Test if you are shortlisted, which is administered by the Civil Aviation Authority. The exam typically consists of 4 papers.
To make an ATCO you must have an aptitude for physics & mathematics and your base in both the subjects should be adequately strong.
It’s a simple process.
Key Roles and Responsibilities:
Knowledge
Skills
Ability
Personality