With our air traffic services training programme now open again for applications for intakes commencing in 2025, we thought it would be useful to outline the roles of air traffic services specialists, including air traffic controllers and flight service officers.
Keeping our skies safe is a big responsibility. It takes a certain kind of person with the right skills, aptitude and attitude to be an air traffic controller or flight service officer. In return these roles can offer a career filled with challenges, opportunities, rewards and a sense of purpose and achievement.
Air traffic controllers provide pilots with flight information to help ensure that every flight takes off, operates, and lands safely. They work in surveillance control centres and control towers, using equipment such as radar and radios to provide guidance and instructions to pilots.
While safety is the primary concern for air traffic controllers, they must also direct aircraft efficiently to minimize delays. They manage the flow of aircraft in and out of airport airspace, guide pilots during takeoff and landing, and monitor aircraft as they travel through the skies.
In New Zealand, air traffic controllers work from Airways New Zealandโs operating centres in Christchurch and Auckland or one of 17 control towers across the country. Our team safely guides over 400,000 flights through our skies every year.
Flight service officers play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of aviation in New Zealand. They provide essential information and support to pilots, helping to guide aircraft safely through the skies.
Flight service officersโ expertise in managing air traffic in non-controlled environments is vital, particularly in remote or busy regions where their guidance helps ensure that every flight reaches its destination safely.
Flight service officers work in one of Airways New Zealandโs two flight service aerodromes in Paraparaumu and Milford Sound, or in one of the two operating centres located in Auckland and Christchurch.
If you think you have what it takes to train as an air traffic services specialist, check out our webpage below for more information.
Please note: This training is for New Zealand citizens and permanent residents, and Australian citizens only. Students will complete New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) approved qualifications.
