Become an Air Traffic Controller – ATCO Basic Training

The ATCO Basic Training programme at the Riga Aeronautical Institute (RAI) Training Centre gives you the theoretical and practical foundation to launch a career in air traffic control. The course is designed in accordance with EASA and Eurocontrol standards and prepares you for modern, technology-driven aviation environments.

Graduates who successfully complete all required training and selection stages are offered a guaranteed employment pathway.

Why study at RAI?

Riga Aeronautical Institute is one of the oldest aviation and transport education institutions, founded in 1942. Our new, modern Training Centre operates within a specialised aviation education ecosystem with strong links to the aviation industry and the higher education environment – including hands-on 3D simulator training.

What the programme covers

ATCO initial training covers the following training types:

• Basic Training

• Aerodrome Control Rating (ADC)

• Approach Control Procedural Rating (APP)

• Area Control Procedural Rating (ACP)

• Approach Control Surveillance Rating (APS)

• Area Control Surveillance Rating (ACS)

Career opportunities

Successful completion of ATCO Basic Training provides the knowledge base required for progression toward:

• Air Traffic Controller (ready for type rating)

• ATM operational support roles

• Aviation operations coordination

• Aviation safety and operational planning functions

Course modules

• Fundamentals of Air Traffic Management (ATM)

• Air Traffic Services (ATS) procedures

• Aviation law and international regulatory frameworks

• Navigation, meteorology, and aerodynamics

• Human performance and aviation psychology

• Communication and radiotelephony procedures

• Safety management and operational risk awareness

• Radar and surveillance principles

• Practical ATC simulation exercises

Duration and workload

The programme combines theoretical training with simulator-based exercises designed to develop operational thinking, situational awareness, and decision-making skills.

• Theoretical: 566 hours

• Practical / 3D Simulator: 140 hours

Who this course is for

This course is designed for aspiring Air Traffic Control Officers (ATCOs), aviation professionals transitioning into Air Traffic Management (ATM), and technical personnel seeking a comprehensive foundation in air traffic services.

The programme is intended for:

• individuals pursuing a professional career in air traffic control

• aviation students seeking ATM competencies

• candidates preparing for future ATCO selection processes

• aviation professionals expanding operational knowledge

Entry requirements

Applicants must hold a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent secondary education, demonstrating solid aptitude in mathematics and analytical skills. Candidates must possess proficiency in English.

Instructors

Courses are delivered by instructors and aviation experts with operational and academic experience in the aviation sector.