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This page covers FEAST I only-the cognitive ability and English language stage described in official EUROCONTROL FEAST candidate information. It does not replace instructions from the organisation that invited you.

This page focuses on FEAST I only. For the full FEAST structure, see the FEAST test format guide. For broad preparation strategy, see FEAST test prep. For results, passing scores, and retake rules, see FEAST results and Can you retake FEAST?.

What official sources say about FEAST I

EUROCONTROL describes FEAST (First European Air Traffic Controller Selection Test) as assessing knowledge, skills, and abilities relevant and necessary for ATC training and the job of an air traffic controller. FEAST is available to civil and military ANSPs, certified ATC aviation training academies, and universities.

The FEAST candidate site describes FEAST I as a set of cognitive ability tests and an English language test. FEAST II-more complex multitasking tests-generally follows successful completion of FEAST I. FEAST III may include a personality questionnaire used by many FEAST user organisations.

Not every user organisation runs the same modules in the same order. Your invitation letter and session instructions define what you will take.

What FEAST I is designed to assess

FEAST I is aptitude screening, not certified air traffic control work. Candidates are not expected to know separation standards, phraseology, or live ATC procedures unless their organisation states otherwise.

Cognitive ability testing in FEAST I commonly targets skills such as attention, memory, reasoning, spatial visualization, visual perception, and accuracy under time pressure. The English language test evaluates language skills needed for training and workplace communication in an international aviation context.

Exact tasks, timing, scoring, and pass rules are set by the FEAST user organisation-not by this website.

How FEAST I differs from FEAST II

Topic FEAST I FEAST II
Primary focus Foundational cognitive abilities and English More complex multitasking and work-sample style tasks
Typical feel Discrete aptitude-style items Combined workload, monitoring, and rule application
Official framing Cognitive ability tests + English test Multitasking tests after FEAST I success
Deeper reading This page FEAST II overview

EUROCONTROL FEAST material references work-sample tests such as DART and MULTI-PASS in connection with later stages. Those are covered on the FEAST dynamic radar (DART) and FEAST MULTI-PASS pages-not here.

Skill areas you may prepare for FEAST I

Use module pages for targeted practice. Each explains one skill area without duplicating full FEAST overviews:

For mixed orientation exercises, see the FEAST sample questions page. For structured interactive prep, compare ATC Preparation FEAST software, JobTestPrep FEAST practice, and the vendors in Preparation resources below-confirm which modules match your invitation before buying.

Practical preparation principles for FEAST I

  1. Read instructions carefully in every practice session-EUROCONTROL stresses this for real FEAST tests (see Sources).
  2. Build accuracy before speed; timed drills come after you understand task types.
  3. Practise English comprehension if your organisation includes the language test in FEAST I.
  4. Use desktop, laptop, or tablet for timed practice modules from your chosen vendor; confirm device requirements on the vendor site before purchase.
  5. Do not treat practice scores as predictors of official outcomes.

What not to assume

  • That every ANSP uses identical FEAST I modules or timing
  • That unofficial practice replicas match your live session
  • That passing practice exercises guarantees selection
  • That FEAST I tests professional ATC knowledge

Optional vendor shortcuts (commercial)

If you want optional paid prep aligned with this page topic, compare these options:

Use review-first comparison: JobTestPrep FEAST Review, ATC Preparation Review, and SkyTest Review.

Preparation resources

Some linked preparation resources may be commercial. FEAST instructions from EUROCONTROL and the organisation that invited you should always come first.

Confirm which FEAST modules your invitation includes before buying prep. See JobTestPrep FEAST Review and ATC Preparation Review. Interactive options: ATC Preparation FEAST software; SkyTest: European ATCO, UK & Ireland, Germany, Austria & Switzerland.

Sources