Careers in air traffic control

ATCOs at work in the Changi Control Tower

Air Traffic Control Officers (ATCOs)

Each year, our ATCOs manage an impressive 696,000 air traffic movements across Singapore's skies. Working closely with pilots and fellow controllers, they coordinate aircraft movements to ensure safe and efficient operations from departure to arrival — a responsibility that requires exceptional expertise, sharp decision‑making, and the ability to perform with precision under pressure.

ATCOs operate across three distinct streams — Aerodrome Control, Approach Control, and Area Control. Each stream involves different responsibilities and operating environments, requiring strong focus, sound judgement, and adaptability as situations evolve.

Selection and Training

Before candidates are admitted to training, they first undergo a rigorous selection process which includes aptitude assessments designed to identify individuals with the cognitive and psychological attributes required for the role. Those who make it through selection will then embark on a comprehensive training programme lasting approximately 1.5 years.

As you begin your journey as a Probationary Air Traffic Control Officer (PATCO), you will undergo the Primary Air Traffic Control (PATC) Course at the Singapore Aviation Academy (SAA) for 4 months, where you will learn the theoretical foundations of air traffic control and aviation‑related subjects. Thereafter, PATCOs will be streamed into one of three specialisations — Aerodrome Control, Approach Control, or Area Control — and undergo the next phase of simulator‑based training and on‑the‑job training (OJT) over the next 12 to 14 months.

Only candidates who successfully complete the training and demonstrate the required level of competency will be awarded an ATC licence — the professional qualification that authorises them to work as operational ATCOs.

Air Traffic Control Support Officers (ATCSOs)

The critical connection

Working in perfect sync with ATCOs, our ATCSOs are the vital link in the air traffic control chain.

They keep our skies connected by:

• maintaining crucial communications over high-frequency radio

• coordinating with neighbouring air traffic control centres

• ensuring pilots receive timely aeronautical and weather information

• managing ground movements within designated areas of the apron

By keeping information aligned and ensuring every movement remains coordinated, they bridge the ground and the sky.

Training

You will first attend the Primary Air Traffic Control (PATC) Course at the Singapore Aviation Academy (SAA). Thereafter, you will be trained in specialised endorsements, via simulator training and on-the-job Training (OJT) over the next 6 to 9 months.

Working locations

Our ATCOs and ATCSOs are based across Singapore's four air traffic control facilities:

• Changi Control Tower

• Seletar Control Tower

• Singapore Air Traffic Control Centre (SATCC)

• Changi Ramp Control Tower

These facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art technology to support safe and efficient aircraft movements.

Working hours and training bond

As an ATCO or ATCSO, you will work in shifts to provide round‑the‑clock air traffic control services across Singapore's skies, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Upon successfully completing the training and attaining an ATC licence, you will be required to serve a training bond. The bond reflects the significant investment involved in developing each ATCO. It represents a mutual commitment, recognising the time, resources, and dedication that both CAAS and its officers contribute to the journey of becoming a qualified ATCO.

Salary and benefits

You will receive a competitive salary and benefits package throughout your career with us.

More detailed information on remuneration and benefits will be provided during the recruitment process.

Application window

Training intakes for ATCOs typically commence in March and September each year.

Applications open approximately 5 months before each intake:

• around October for the March intake

• around April for the September intake

Contact information 

Human Resource Division
Contact us using the Enquiries & Feedback Form.