Application of the ANP in the interview phase of air traffic controller candidate selection process

Purpose This paper investigates the interview examination applied during the admission process of air traffic controller (ATCO) candidates. This paper aims to select the most appropriate candidates by minimizing any shortcomings of the process. Design/methodology/approach ATCOs have a very important role in the air traffic system. They are responsible for ensuring the safe, regular and rapid flow of aircraft traffic. They carry out this challenging task by monitoring the aircraft under their responsibility and by giving instructions to the pilots when necessary. So the selection of ATCO candidates is of critical importance. This process is usually conducted through multistage examinations. It is a critical issue to use correct methods in the selection process to identify the most suitable candidates. Besides, the application of subjective examination in a standard way and standardization of criteria can assist in selecting the right candidates. Within this context, the analytic network process (ANP) and the rating method are used. The weights of the selection criteria are calculated by the ANP, and the candidates are evaluated by the rating method according to the defined criteria. Findings 39 candidates were ranked using the ANP, and the rankings obtained by the ANP and the current system were compared. The ANP rankings were also compared with the results of a previous study conducted by analytic hierarchy process (AHP). The results indicate that using the ANP yields consistent results with those obtained from the AHP in terms of the rankings. Research limitations/implications ATCOs are one of the most important operators in air transport system. They undertake critical tasks where even a small error may cause serious consequences. Therefore, selecting the appropriate candidate is an important first step in training qualified staff. The authors believe that this study will contribute to the training of more qualified ATCOs. On the other hand, the approach about the use of ANP method on the interview examination and the standardization of the criteria can provide insight into improving interview process in different area. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study that presents an ANP-based methodology for the selection process of ATCOs and the interview process.