Successful applicants start out as probationary ATCOs (PATCOs) and begin their training at the Singapore Aviation Academy.

The initial training to obtain the 1st ATC rating generally takes about 1 year. Probationary ATCOs will undergo the following training programmes:

i) Basic Theory Training (Primary Air Traffic Control Course);

ii) Simulator Training; and

iii) On-Job-Training at the respective units (depending on which stream the PATCO is in) for at least 4 months.

Upon obtaining the 1st ATC rating, ATCOs are required to undergo another ATC course leading to a 2nd ATC rating.

For each ATC rating course, you are required serve a bond with CAAS for a period of 2 years upon completion of the course. The bond is frozen during the training period.