How to Become an Air Traffic Controller in Canada

What is an Air Traffic Controller?

Traffic controllers are responsible for ensuring the safe and efficient flow of air traffic in the sky and on the ground and preventing collisions. Air traffic controllers work with advanced communication systems and radar that monitors and directs aircraft, communicating with pilots and providing information during takeoff, landing, and throughout their flight.

This is a highly skilled profession that requires excellent spatial visualization, strong communication skills, and the ability to make quick decisions in high-pressure situations. Air traffic controllers work in various settings, including airport control towers, control centers, and route centers, and play a vital role in maintaining air safety and efficient operation of the aviation industry.

How much do air traffic controllers make

Air traffic controllers earn a competitive salary, which varies based on location, experience, and the complexity of flight paths.

The average salary $142,649 per year.  The salary ranges from a low  of $49,000 to a high of $284,000.

Working conditions for air traffic controllers is indoors in control towers or facilities. These environments can often be noisy due to the constant communication and monitoring of aircraft movements. Despite the noise, controllers are trained to remain focused and alert at all times to ensure the safety of air travel.

In terms of work schedules, air traffic controllers may work on a rotating basis, including morning, night, and weekend shifts. This is necessary to provide continuous air traffic control services throughout the day. While the schedule may vary, controllers are given regular breaks to ensure they remain mentally sharp during their shifts.

Requirements for Becoming an Air Traffic Controller

Becoming an air traffic controller is a highly rewarding career that requires a unique set of skills and qualifications, including excellent communication, problem-solving, and spatial visualization skills. If you’re interested in pursuing a career as an air traffic controller, there are several requirements and steps you need to fulfill. From meeting the eligibility criteria to undergoing comprehensive training, this article will guide you through the process of becoming an air traffic controller.

Requirements to become an air traffic controller in Canada

Minimum Education A high school diploma is required or Canadian Adult Education Credential (CAEC).

Canadian Citizenship – You must be a Canadian Citizen or permanent resident.  Information on Canadian Citizenship here

Language requirements  You must be fluent in English for most regions in Canada and fluently bilingual in French for the Montreal Flight Information Region, including the National Capital Region

Medical Exam.  You must complete a comprehensive medical exam and series of tests to evaluate their overall health and cognitive abilities necessary to perform the job effectively.

Training and Certification NAV CANADA, the organization responsible for air traffic control in Canada, will provide you with comprehensive training. You do not need a background in aviation to apply.

Important qualities to succeed:

• Resilience and the ability to perform under pressure
• Strong motivation to excel in their career
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills
• Effective communication skills to interact with pilots and fellow controllers
• Teamwork capabilities to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment

Nav Canada Application Process

The first step is completing the online application form and entering your basic information, education, work experience, and language proficiency.

Your application is reviewed and if accepted, you will be invited to undergo an the assessment process. The first step is the Stage 1 Assessment, which tests your cognitive and communication skills, as well as your ability to handle stressful situations.

Nav Canada Assessments

Nav Canada Stage 1 Practice

FEAST Assessments

The First European Air Traffic Controller Selection Test (FEAST) is a comprehensive assessment tool used by NAV Canada and other Air Navigation Service Providers (ANSPs) in their hiring process.

FEAST I This module focuses on measuring fundamental cognitive skills and abilities required for air traffic controllers. It includes tests assessing decision-making, logical reasoning, visual perception, attention, multi-tasking, and spatial orientation. FEAST I includes an English language proficiency test.

FEAST II After FEAST I, you are ready for the next module, FEAST II, which has two ATC work sample tests:

• FEAST Dynamic ATC Radar test (FEAST DART) This will assesses your multi-tasking abilities with various tasks that simulate real-world air traffic control scenarios using radar systems.
• FEAST Multipass test This evaluates your multi-tasking skills further, giving you multiple tasks simultaneously, similar to the demands of air traffic control.

FEAST III The third module involves a personality questionnaire that assesses candidates’ personality traits and behavioral tendencies. Different organizations may have variations in the content and approach of this phase, but it aims to gain insights into candidates’ suitability for the role based on their personality attributes.

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