Location: Lydd Airport
Department: Air Traffic Services (ATS)
Reports To: Head of Airspace and Innovation
Employment Type: Full-time | Shift-based
About the Airport
Lydd Airport is a CAA-licensed, privately owned regional airport undergoing transformation into a recognised Centre for Future Flight Innovations.
The airport supports a growing mix of:
· Commercial and charter traffic
· Business aviation
· General aviation
· Flight training organisations
· UAV/UAS operations
· Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) trials
· Sustainable aviation technology demonstrations
As part of this evolution, our Air Traffic Services unit plays a critical role in enabling safe integration of emerging aviation technologies alongside conventional operations.
Role Overview
We are seeking a highly professional and forward-thinking Air Traffic Controller (ADI & preferably APP Rated) to provide Aerodrome and Approach Control services within a dynamic regional environment.
In addition to core ATC duties, the successful candidate will contribute to the safe integration of future flight operations, including unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), electric and hybrid aircraft trials, and innovative airspace concepts.
This role is ideal for a controller who is safety-driven, adaptable, and interested in supporting the evolution of UK airspace and aviation technology.
Key Responsibilities
Operational ATC Duties
· Provide Aerodrome Control (ADI) services in accordance with CAP 493 (MATS Part 1) and local MATS Part 2.
· Provide procedural Approach Control (APP) services.
· Maintain a safe, orderly, and expeditious flow of air traffic.
· Apply standard separation minima and traffic management techniques.
· Manage aircraft movements on runways, taxiways, and apron areas.
· Coordinate effectively with adjacent ATC units, the London FIR, and military stakeholders where required.
· Provide alerting services and manage abnormal and emergency situations.
· Manage mixed VFR/IFR traffic in controlled and uncontrolled environments.
Future Flight & Innovation Support
· Facilitate integration of UAS, AAM, and experimental aircraft operations within established procedures.
· Participate in development and review of local procedures supporting innovative flight trials.
· Support safety assessments, hazard identification, and operational risk reviews.
· Collaborate with innovation partners, regulators, and airport stakeholders.
· Contribute operational expertise to airspace modernisation initiatives.
Safety & Compliance
· Operate in full compliance with UK CAA regulations and unit approvals.
· Maintain licence validity, ratings, endorsements, and medical certification.
· Participate in continuation training, competence checks, and unit audits.
· Support the airport’s Safety Management System (SMS).
· Submit and contribute to occurrence reporting and safety investigations.
Team & Operational Support
· Work collaboratively within a small ATS team on a rotating shift pattern.
· Support mentoring of trainees where required.
· Contribute to procedural improvements and operational efficiency initiatives.
· Assist during airfield inspections and airside safety activities as required.
Essential Requirements
· Valid UK CAA Air Traffic Controller Licence
· Current ADI rating
· Valid Class 3 ATCO Medical
· Recent operational experience at a CAA-licensed unit
· Strong working knowledge of CAP 493 (MATS Part 1)
· High professional standards and safety-first mindset
· Right to work in the UK
Desirable Experience
· Current APP rating (procedural and/or surveillance)
· Experience in a regional or mixed-traffic environment
· Experience with lower-density procedural approach control
· Exposure to UAS or future flight trials
· Experience participating in safety assessments or airspace change proposals
· Familiarity with electronic flight data systems
· Interest in innovation, automation, and emerging aviation technologies
Key Competencies
· Excellent situational awareness and decision-making
· Strong communication and stakeholder coordination skills
· Adaptability in evolving operational environments
· Professional resilience under pressure
· Collaborative mindset within a small ATS team
· Curiosity and openness toward aviation innovation
Why Join Us
· Opportunity to be part of a pioneering UK Future Flight environment
· Exposure to cutting-edge aviation technologies
· Competitive salary aligned with regional ATC scales
· Pension scheme
· Opportunity to shape the next generation of UK regional aviation operations
Our Vision
As a privately owned airport, we combine operational excellence with agility and innovation. Our ambition is to become a recognised UK hub for advanced aviation technologies, while maintaining the highest standards of safety and regulatory compliance.
Our Air Traffic Controllers are central to that mission.
To apply, please send your CV and a Cover Letter explaining your suitability for the role to recruitment@lydd-airport.co.uk
