Aviation, Air Traffic and Pilot Bursaries in South Africa Available for 2026
Find on this page a List of Aviation, Air Traffic and Pilot Bursaries in South Africa Available for 2026. Are you a passionate South African student who dreams of working in the skies or managing airspace operations on the ground? If you aspire to become a pilot, air traffic controller, or aviation specialist but face financial constraints, applying for an Aviation bursary for the 2026/2027 academic year could be your gateway into one of the most exciting and high-demand industries in the world. With the continuous growth of air travel, logistics, and aerospace operations, the need for highly trained aviation professionals in South Africa remains strong. Fortunately, several government departments, aviation academies, airlines, and private organizations are offering Aviation, Air Traffic, and Pilot bursaries in South Africa for 2026 to support talented and deserving students.
What Is Aviation, Air Traffic and Pilot Studies?
Aviation is a broad field that focuses on the operation, management, and safety of aircraft and airspace. It includes flying aircraft as a pilot, controlling and monitoring air traffic, maintaining aviation systems, and ensuring smooth and safe air transportation. Air Traffic Control (ATC) is a critical branch of aviation responsible for directing aircraft movements on the ground and in the air to prevent collisions and ensure efficient traffic flow. Pilot studies prepare students to operate aircraft safely and professionally, whether in commercial airlines, cargo operations, military aviation, or private charter services.
Major Fields of Aviation, Air Traffic and Pilot Studies
In South Africa, Aviation-related studies cover several specialized areas, including:
- Pilot Training (Commercial and Private Pilot Licences): Focuses on aircraft operation, navigation, flight planning, and aviation safety.
- Air Traffic Control (ATC): Trains professionals to manage and coordinate aircraft movements in controlled airspace and at airports.
- Aviation Management: Combines business and aviation operations, preparing students for leadership roles in airlines and airports.
- Aircraft Maintenance Engineering: Concentrates on aircraft inspection, repair, and technical safety compliance.
- Aviation Safety and Security: Emphasizes risk management, accident prevention, and regulatory compliance.
- Flight Operations and Dispatch: Supports pilots with route planning, weather analysis, and fuel management.
Career Opportunities in Aviation in South Africa
Graduates in Aviation, Air Traffic, and Pilot studies can pursue rewarding careers in both local and international aviation industries, such as:
- Commercial or Airline Pilot
- Air Traffic Controller
- Flight Instructor
- Aircraft Maintenance Engineer
- Aviation Operations Manager
- Airport Manager
- Aviation Safety Officer
- Flight Dispatcher
- Charter and Cargo Pilot
With South Africa’s strategic position as an aviation hub in Africa, skilled professionals are in demand across airlines, airports, training institutions, and aerospace organizations.
Why Apply for Aviation, Air Traffic and Pilot Bursaries in 2026?
Aviation training is known to be expensive, especially pilot and air traffic control programmes that involve specialized equipment, simulator training, flight hours, and licensing exams. Costs may include tuition fees, medical examinations, flight gear, accommodation, and certification fees. This is why Aviation bursaries in South Africa for 2026/2027 are extremely valuable.
These bursaries often cover full or partial tuition, flying hours, study materials, accommodation, and in some cases, a monthly stipend. Many bursary providers also offer mentorship, practical training opportunities, and potential employment after successful completion of studies.
Applying for an Aviation, Air Traffic, or Pilot bursary not only reduces the financial burden but also opens doors to structured career development within the aviation industry.
List of Aviation, Air Traffic and Pilot Bursaries in South Africa Available for 2026
Below, you will find a comprehensive list of Aviation, Air Traffic and Pilot bursaries in South Africa for 2026, offered by reputable airlines, government departments, aviation authorities, and private training institutions. Each bursary listing includes detailed information on eligibility requirements, study fields covered, application procedures, and closing dates to help you plan your future career in the aviation industry.
Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality Bursary
KwaZulu-Natal Government Bursaries
Mpumalanga Provincial Government Bursary
South African Civil Aviation Authority Bursary
Transport Education Training Authority (TETA) Bursary
