Doncaster Sheffield Airport is continuing its preparations for reopening with significant investment in both state-of-the-art technology and the people who will operate it, as recruitment gathers pace across its Air Traffic Control (ATC) team.
A new Micro Nav 3D tower simulator with integrated radar capability has been installed at the airport, providing a cutting-edge training environment that enables controllers to develop skills in both tower and radar operations.
More than 20 people have already been recruited into Air Traffic Control and Air Traffic Services roles, including nine trainees who are undertaking practical and theoretical training towards their Tower and Radar qualifications. The airport is now recruiting for a further seven positions across the ATC operation, including Air Traffic Controller and Senior Air Traffic Controller.
Andy Hudson, Head of Air Traffic Services at Doncaster Sheffield Airport, who rejoined the new project after previously serving at the site for 17 years is leading the development of the Air Traffic Services programme.
Image credit: DSA
Speaking about the opportunities available, he said: "This is a unique opportunity to help shape a new chapter for the airport. People joining us now will play a key role in building our operation, along with all the training, development and professional opportunities that affords. They will have a rare opportunity to be a part of the programme in this crucial phase. From developing procedures and training programmes to creating the culture and standards that will underpin the airport's long-term success, they will have the chance to make a genuine impact from day one.”
"We're also able to offer an exceptional career pathway. Because both tower and radar operations will be based on site, our people can develop their skills across both disciplines. That creates opportunities for progression and allows our team to build broad, fulfilling careers here at Doncaster Sheffield Airport whilst being rewarded with an excellent remuneration package."
Simon Hinchley, Executive Director Airport Operations said: "Each appointment we make and every investment in technology is another step towards reopening the airport with the highest standards of safety, professionalism and service. Bringing together experienced people, talented trainees and industry-leading training technology gives us real confidence that we're building a resilient operation ready to support the airport's successful return to commercial flights. We're creating an operation that will serve passengers, airlines and the economic growth of the region for many years to come."
The simulator, which is now fully operational and supporting the training requirements of the team, provides an ability to plan for the safe return of air traffic operations at Doncaster Sheffield Airport. The project has been delivered through the collaborative efforts of the teams at Doncaster Sheffield Airport, Indra Air Traffic and Cyrrus Ltd, who have worked together to complete the installation on schedule and within budget.
A spokesperson from Indra said: “This is a really positive milestone for Doncaster as work continues toward reopening Doncaster Sheffield Airport. One of the most encouraging signs is the investment being made behind the scenes, not just in buildings and infrastructure but in the people and systems that will keep the airport safe as activity begins to grow.
“Doncaster Council has committed to delivering a modern, future-ready Air Traffic Control service, including the installation of a new MicroNav 3D tower simulator with integrated radar capability. The MicroNav team from Indra Air Traffic have provided valuable technical expertise and support throughout the development and installation process, helping to establish an effective and realistic training environment.
“The project has been delivered through the collaborative efforts of the teams at Doncaster Airport, Indra Air Traffic and Cyrrus Ltd, who have worked together to complete the installation on schedule and within budget. The simulator now provides an important capability to support training, validation and the safe return of air traffic operations at Doncaster Sheffield Airport.
“Reopening an airport is a complex journey, but seeing this level of commitment, collaboration and investment gives real confidence in Doncaster's future.”
Doncaster Sheffield Airport is investing in its team and infrastructure ahead of planned reopening to freight in 2027 and passengers in 2028. This includes a series of improvements to airport infrastructure, and an Airspace Change Process, which is expected to complete in Spring 2027.
The newly listed Air Traffic Controller and Senior Air Traffic Controller roles will be available to view via the jobs portal on the City of Doncaster Council website: https://www.flydsa.com/careers/
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