How to become a A/G operator/AFIS Officer?
 

Just wondering... How long does it take to train as an A/G operator or AFIS operator and what sort of licences/exams are involved?

Thanks in advance...

A/g + Fiso
 

To the best of my knowledge, all you need for A/G is an R/T license and the permission of whosever radio it is to use it.
There is CAP (the number escapes me -is it CAP413? -but it is downloadable off the CAA website) detailing the syllabus for FISO exams. There are a couple of types. One for Area (FIR etc) and one for Aerodrome, with slightly differing requirements.
Details of exams and costs are usually disseminated through WHITE AICs (available from ais.org.uk. Look for the AIP)

Regards Mirach

A/g + Fiso
 

Further to my last.
It's CAP427. Search CAA.CO.UK.

Mirach

Contacttower

I cringe slightly when I see in the response above that "all you need for A/G is an R/T license (sic)".

To phrase it slightly more realistically, you need to obtain a VHF Radio Operator's Certificate of Competence as a prerequisite to either providing an Air/Ground Communications Service or going on to study for an Aerodrome Flight Information Service Officer's licence. You will need a certain level of knowledge of aerodromes and aviation to be properly prepared for the AGCS examinations, both the written and practical - do not underestimate the latter. To then operate an A/G radio station, you will need the written authority of the radio station licence holder on your certificate. In practical terms, this means that you would undergo a period of training and that he/she must be satisfied that you are competent to provide the service correctly at the specific aerodrome.

2 s

2 -Sheds is correct; as an A/G Examiner I can tell you that the FRTOL no longer authorises the holder to provide A/G radio service, you need to pass the written and practical exams for a Certificate of Competence unless you already hold a FISO (Aerodrome) Licence or ATCO Licence with ADV or ADI rating ( or military equivalent)