Each aircraft in flight relies on air traffic control units to access crucial information that enhances flight safety and ensures prompt notification for search and rescue operations if an incident occurs.

However, the responsibilities of air traffic control units extend beyond this. In airspaces with a high volume of flights, there is a need to provide air traffic control services in addition to the basic flight information services.

Air Traffic Control (ATC) services are provided by air traffic controllers to prevent aircraft collisions, ensure separation from obstacles, and promote orderly and efficient flow of flights.

The units providing these ATC services vary according to the aircraft’s position in different airspace regions.

When an aircraft is at or near an airport, control tower controllers manage operations. When aircraft are ascending or descending near the destination or departure airports, approach control units assume responsibility. During en-route flight in air corridors between airports, the country’s area control center provides air traffic control services.

Training air traffic controllers begins by selecting the relevant field of study in the mathematics category of the national university entrance exam. Successful applicants can then pursue a bachelor’s degree in Aviation Engineering and Air Traffic Control at the National Aviation Faculty.

This four-year undergraduate program includes specialized courses (both theoretical and practical), alongside core and general engineering subjects within the aviation field.

Key considerations for applicants to this field include physical health, proficiency in English, and personal attributes suited to the profession, such as communication skills, teamwork, creative thinking, problem-solving, situational awareness, and stress management. These qualities facilitate successful employment following graduation.