Airport celebrates UK's youngest ATCO

Teesside Airport’s Josh Brown has become the youngest qualified civil air traffic controller in the UK at just 20 years old.

Josh, from Ingleby Barwick, joined the airport’s tower team as an air traffic control assistant at 18.

Now, after completing rigorous training overseen by the Civil Aviation Authority, he has officially earned his licence.

His training included a unit endorsement course, abnormal and emergency situations (ABES) training, and human factors assessments. 

He also completed six months of basic and aerodrome (ADI) training in Cheltenham before securing his student air traffic controller’s licence last year.

Josh said: “I’m absolutely over the moon.

“I’d like to wish a huge thank you to everyone who has supported me since my air traffic journey began. 

“It’s quite a feeling being told you’re the youngest controller in the country. 

“Dreams do come true!”

Gayle Douglas, head of air traffic services at Teesside Airport, added: “We’re incredibly proud to have the youngest licensed ATCO in the country and it’s a testament to the huge amount of work Josh has put in.

“His hard work has really paid off, and he continues to be a brilliant member of the team.

“Qualifying as an air traffic controller is no easy feat, but Josh has shown he has what it takes, and this is an amazing achievement. 

“I hope this is a shining beacon to the rest of our great young assistants to follow in his footsteps.”

Teesside’s air traffic team manages a diverse mix of aircraft, from Draken jets training RAF pilots to first-time flyers. 

Josh’s rapid rise highlights both his dedication and the strong mentorship within the team.

Phil Forster, managing director of Teesside Airport, added: “No airport operates without the dedication of all its teams – from the fire station to ground crew and the air traffic control tower. 

“Josh has been a rising star in our tower and to have a Teessider as the youngest controller in the country is a proud moment. 

“I wish him massive congratulations – and hope he continues to have many happy years with us.”

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