Predictive Validity of Selection and Training for Ab Initio Air Traffic Controllers

The German Aerospace Center (DLR) provides a selection procedure to identify suitable applicants for ab initio air traffic controller (ATCO) training at DFS Deutsche Flugsicherung GmbH. The selection phases comprise cognitive and work sample tests, team exercises, and an interview with a final assessment by a selection board. DFS ATCO training consists of initial training (IT) and unit training (UT). For the first time, performance data from the UT were available. A validation sample of 603 ATCO trainees was used to analyze the selection and training data. Cognitive performance was predictive of IT criteria and work sample performance was predictive of both IT and UT criteria. Final selection board assessments showed predictive validity for training criteria. Overall, the validity of the DLR selection procedure was confirmed.