What can anyone tell me about becoming an ATCO thorugh the RAF?
Just had a look at the website today, and found some new things.
Apparently you can start off as an ATCA (Air Traffic Control Assistant). Also, it seems that RAF want TATC's to have degrees!?
They offer what seems to be sponsership programmes whilst you study for your degree in whatever you study.
Can't help but consider RAF as a possibly better alternative to starting a career in ATC than NATS... But then, it sounds like you have to pay to be trained as opposed to NATS paying you 10K at the college.
I just don't know!
It depends on what you want!!
Sure you can join as at Assisstant, but it will take a number of years before you are considered for an ATCO position.
When you finally achieve the dizzy heights, expect a job in the desert somewhere or the South Stlantic at some stage - if that's what floats your boat then go for it, there are good times to be had in the RAF (and a lot of bad
and you'll learn a lot about yourself)
If you wish to become a civil ATCO then NATS is your best bet if you don't want to spend thousands doing it. It is alos no secret that you will be better off financially within NATS than you ever would in the RAF - but hey, money isn't everything. It depends on what you want at this stage in your life
