Prerequisite knowledge:
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What is VATSIM?
The VATSIM (Virtual Air Traffic SIMulation) network is an free to use online multiplayer network where pilots and air traffic controllers can operate together. VATSIM uses real life flying procedures, which include proper ATC communications and navigation techniques, and it is network to consider if you are looking to make your flights a bit more realistic.
How does VATSIM work?
The VATSIM multiplayer network works with FSX (disc and Steam editions), P3D (all versions), and X-Plane 10/11. You cannot connect to VATSIM in game; instead, you must use a seperate application to fly on the network. Detailed guides for connecting to VATSIM are provided for FSX and P3D users (X-Plane guides will be provided in the future).
Pilots and qualified ATC can log on to the network whenever they want to, and fly to wherever they want to around the world. ATC coverage is split up into multiple sectors around the world, however because ATC is purely voluntary, there is no guarantee of coverage in a certain location (except for during events, see below). Therefore, there may be times where you are flying in an area where there is no ATC or traffic, and there may be other times where the area you are flying in has complete ATC coverage alongside lots of traffic. Therefore, it is essential to be comfortable with ATC communications and navigation techniques when flying on the VATSIM network.
VATSIM also holds several events every weekend, whether it’s a fly-in to a certain airport, or a group flight between two or more preselected locations. During these events, the area where the event is taking place will be fully staffed with ATC, and plenty of traffic can be expected.
Who can fly on VATSIM?
Anyone who uses one of the above platforms can use VATSIM! The VATSIM website officially says users must be 13 and up, but if you know your procedures and respect their rules, younger flight simmers can also use the network successfully.
It is recommended that you have at least one study level aircraft with a functional FMC and navigation database when flying on VATSIM. Although this is not a requirement, it will make your experience on VATSIM easier and more realistic. Pilots must know how use real world procedures when flying on the network, although there is no test required for pilots to join. However, if you do not adhere to their operating procedures, you may be disconnected from the network. Repeated offenders may have their accounts banned from VATSIM.
If you are interested in becoming an air traffic controller on the VATSIM network, there is a stricter training regime as well as multiple tests. The FSACTA only covers becoming a pilot on the VATSIM network, not becoming an air traffic controller.
That's it for the VATSIM basics! The next article will cover registering on the VATSIM network.
None
What is VATSIM?
The VATSIM (Virtual Air Traffic SIMulation) network is an free to use online multiplayer network where pilots and air traffic controllers can operate together. VATSIM uses real life flying procedures, which include proper ATC communications and navigation techniques, and it is network to consider if you are looking to make your flights a bit more realistic.
How does VATSIM work?
The VATSIM multiplayer network works with FSX (disc and Steam editions), P3D (all versions), and X-Plane 10/11. You cannot connect to VATSIM in game; instead, you must use a seperate application to fly on the network. Detailed guides for connecting to VATSIM are provided for FSX and P3D users (X-Plane guides will be provided in the future).
Pilots and qualified ATC can log on to the network whenever they want to, and fly to wherever they want to around the world. ATC coverage is split up into multiple sectors around the world, however because ATC is purely voluntary, there is no guarantee of coverage in a certain location (except for during events, see below). Therefore, there may be times where you are flying in an area where there is no ATC or traffic, and there may be other times where the area you are flying in has complete ATC coverage alongside lots of traffic. Therefore, it is essential to be comfortable with ATC communications and navigation techniques when flying on the VATSIM network.
VATSIM also holds several events every weekend, whether it’s a fly-in to a certain airport, or a group flight between two or more preselected locations. During these events, the area where the event is taking place will be fully staffed with ATC, and plenty of traffic can be expected.
Who can fly on VATSIM?
Anyone who uses one of the above platforms can use VATSIM! The VATSIM website officially says users must be 13 and up, but if you know your procedures and respect their rules, younger flight simmers can also use the network successfully.
It is recommended that you have at least one study level aircraft with a functional FMC and navigation database when flying on VATSIM. Although this is not a requirement, it will make your experience on VATSIM easier and more realistic. Pilots must know how use real world procedures when flying on the network, although there is no test required for pilots to join. However, if you do not adhere to their operating procedures, you may be disconnected from the network. Repeated offenders may have their accounts banned from VATSIM.
If you are interested in becoming an air traffic controller on the VATSIM network, there is a stricter training regime as well as multiple tests. The FSACTA only covers becoming a pilot on the VATSIM network, not becoming an air traffic controller.
That's it for the VATSIM basics! The next article will cover registering on the VATSIM network.