Psychological Stress, Coping and Professional Identity Among ATC Cadets in Indonesia

Dani Chandra Yudho Pranoto (Politeknik Penerbangan Surabaya)
Nurefnazahani binti Haji Durani (Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali Brunei Darussalam)
Sabariah Sabariah (Universitas PGRI Adi Buana Surabaya)
Nurmida Catherine Sitompul (Universitas PGRI Adi Buana Surabaya)
Endang Mastuti Rahayu (Universitas PGRI Adi Buana Surabaya)
Low Kai Hui (Institut Pendidikan Guru Kampus Bahasa Antarabangsa)

Langit Biru: Jurnal Ilmiah Aviasi
Vol 19 No 3 (2026): Langit Biru: Jurnal Ilmiah Aviasi

Air traffic control training requires rapid decision-making, precise communication, and continuous evaluation through simulation. This study explored stress experiences, coping strategies, and professional identity formation among cadets at an Indonesian aviation training institution. Ten cadets participated in semi-structured interviews and non-participant observations. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Five themes were developed: simulation-induced evaluative stress; institutional hierarchy and emotional constriction; coping trajectories and peer-based regulation; gaps in psychological support; and fragile self-efficacy and professional identity. Stress arose from task complexity as well as surveillance, public evaluation, and social comparison. Adaptive coping included reframing, deliberate practice, breathing routines, and peer discussion. Learning-oriented instructor support strengthened confidence, whereas criticism without recovery opportunities reinforced self-doubt. ATC programmes should integrate psychologically safe debriefing, peer mentoring, coping-skills preparation, and confidential counselling pathways into technical training.