Applying to Nats with DUI

[Trippy1]

Hello,

I have recently been invited to undertake the online tests for NATS after being on what I assume was a waiting list for a number of months.
Unfortunately late last year I was convicted of drink driving and am currently serving a 12 month ban for my offense.

I am aware that this can not be hidden from future employers but I have wanted to pursue a career as an Air traffic controller for a while now.

I have been thinking about this a lot and am even considering if it is even worth me applying anymore, I am afraid they will write off my application straight away considering I now have a criminal record.

I was wondering if anyone has any experience with this and how NATS may respond, is it even worth me trying to pursue this career path anymore?

Thanks.

[radar707]

A criminal record doesn't necessarily preclude you from becoming an ATCO.
So long as you declare it.

[HEATHROW DIRECTOR]

I worked with at least two ATC staff who had been banned for drink driving. I think the medics took an interest but they continued working.

[eastern wiseguy]

HD

two ATC staff who had been banned for drink driving.

That sounds like they were already employed.......back in the day and all that

I have no insight,but why not phone HR ...use a false name if you wish..and ask them? .

Quite a few airfields have VCR's which are airside and would certainly require a valid driving licence to gain access. Bear in mind as well that ATC is a responsible career and you are liable to random breath testing...so stay off the sauce when you are between shifts.

NATS operates a strict Drugs and Alcohol Policy and Procedure, and does not tolerate the consumption, possession or sale of illegal drugs. ATCO roles are considered Safety Critical and are subject to random drugs and alcohol testing throughout their career, including training. ATCOs and Student ATCOs are required to comply with the Railways and Transport Safety Act 2003, the act sets out a prescribed limit of 9 micrograms per 100 millilitres of breath for alcohol.

An ATCO or Student ATCOs will be deemed as committing an offence if they perform an aviation function when the proportion of alcohol exceeds the prescribed limit. At all other times NATS operates a strict limit of 35 micrograms per 100 millilitres of breath for alcohol, this includes when employees are in non-operational classroom and simulator training.

NATS
Recruitment
4000 Parkway
Whiteley
Fareham
Hants
PO15 7FL
Tel: [phone]

[Highland Director]

Be up front and declare it and I suspect it will not be an issue. A 12 month ban suggests that your reading was low. I applied to NATS as a trainee ATCO in 1996 having been banned for 12 months in 1993. I declared it and the only time it was mentioned was at my initial medical when the AME seemed singularly unconcerned. I've been continuously valid since 1997. My foolish teenage mistake has not impeded my career. All the best.

[samotnik]

You're lucky out the in the UK. Here in Poland any drunk driving (that is >=0,02%), including riding a bicycle (!), results in a mandatory suspension of your driving licence. And that results in... suspension of any aviation licence you possess.