About the education

The Education

To become an air traffic controller, one must complete a combination of theoretical and practical training.

The training lasts approximately 2 years.

The first year of the training is completed at the Czech Air Navigation Institute (CANI) in Prague, Czech Republic, while the rest takes place at a control tower or a control center in Norway.

Avinor Air Navigation covers the school costs in Prague, but living expenses must be paid by the individual. The training in Prague is approved by the Norwegian State Educational Loan Fund as a nine-month course, so those who start the training have the opportunity to apply for loans and grants from there.

Upon returning to Norway after completing the year in Prague, one will begin training in Norway. One will then be temporarily employed by Avinor Air Navigation and receive trainee pay.

The training includes:

Initial Training at CANI in Prague, Czech Republic (approx. 9 months):
Over two semesters, students receive basic education about the air traffic controller profession, as well as simulator training with instructors. This prepares them for the next step in practice.

Transition Course (approx. 2-3 weeks):
Course in Norwegian rules and regulations, system training, and meteorology to adapt the education to Norwegian aviation regulations.

Practical Training (approximately 1 to 1.5 years):
Training at a control tower or a control center in Norway. This part of the training consists mainly of supervised training with experienced air traffic controllers, as well as training in local regulations and simulator training to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the role.

This is required to become an air traffic controller: 

An air traffic controller must be able to concentrate over time and handle large amounts of information quickly and accurately to ensure the safety of air traffic.

The work requires strong multitasking ability, analytical skills, and the ability to make quick decisions - even in unexpected situations.

An air traffic controller continuously monitors and evaluates information from radar systems, weather data, and communication with pilots and ground personnel, among other things. Clear and precise communication skills are crucial for giving clear instructions and maintaining safe and efficient traffic flow on the ground and in the air.