About NATS
What is NATS?
NATS is the United Kingdom's leading provider of air traffic control and air navigation services. Established in 1962, it guides over 2.5 million flights a year through UK airspace and across the eastern North Atlantic, and provides air traffic services at airports across the UK and internationally. NATS operates as a public-private partnership and employs around 4,700 people spanning air traffic controllers, engineers, software and data specialists, analysts and corporate professionals.
Where will I work?
NATS is headquartered in Whiteley, Hampshire, with major operational centres at Swanwick (Hampshire) and Prestwick (Ayrshire), plus airport units around the UK. Corporate and engineering roles are office-based with the operational centres at the heart of the business.
What is the NATS team like?
Roughly 4,700 people across operations, engineering, digital and corporate functions — from air traffic controllers and engineers to data scientists, analysts and project managers. Glassdoor reviewers rate NATS 4.3 out of 5 overall (194 reviews) and 84% would recommend it to a friend — with work-life balance scored 4.2 out of 5. Reviewers note that "generally you don't take work home", though operational roles involve shift work. The organisation's blog highlights initiatives from Learning at Work Week to menopause support, and it recently unveiled a digital-twin platform for air traffic controller recruitment.
Work-Life Balance
NATS holds a 1-star Best Companies accreditation ("Officially a Very Good Company to Work For") and ranked #8 Best Big Company to Work For in the UK (November 2025), plus placements in the East of England, Scotland and South East regional lists. Its careers site commits to a "competitive total reward package", including "a market-leading defined contribution pension scheme, generous annual leave, and access to a range of voluntary benefits and discounts", alongside wellbeing resources and programmes.
Perks and Benefits
- #8 Best Big Company to Work For in the UK (Best Companies, 2025)
- Market-leading defined contribution pension scheme
- Generous annual leave entitlement with public holidays on top
- A range of voluntary benefits and discounts
- Wellbeing resources and programmes for health and mental health
- Strong learning and development offering for personal and professional growth