Vatsim

[Fra]

Hi guys, this is great site! I just found it, and I'm amazed! Great job Dave, all the best.

Well, the thing is this. I've also recently found about Vatsim.net, and I've been reading the FAQ and it's still not really understandable to me. Is it a game? Why they have all this rules (conflict situations, procedures) just to keep it real? I was really confused, if it's a game they have so many rules and such. Has anyone try it out what it's like? What do I need to start?

Thanks in advance!

[Kalpazan]

VATSIM stands for Virtual Air Traffic Simulation Network and it is indeed nothing else but network of special game servers around the globe. To use it you need flight simulator (MSFS or X-Plane) a special client software (SquawkBox, FSInn) and of course Internet Connection. This is if you want to act as a pilot. If you want to act as Air Traffic Controller (ATC) you would need a special software like Advanced Simulated Rdara Client (ASRC).

Network is aimed to provide as much reality as possible. "As real as it gets" is the moto here thus you may expect a large number of professional level pilots and controllers on it. However, it is not required that you tourself a such one. You need only basic knowledge to start and the people there will teach you the rest. A lot of procedures and rules are needed just as it is in the real world, to provide smooth and problem free air traffic flow over the network. Make sure you read them carefully.

Vatsim.net is the right source of information to start from. There is the Pilot Resource Center where you get to know everything needed to fly online on the network.

Good luck and happy landing!  

[Fryy/Avocadoflight]

I recently just found out about vatsim too, and holy crap its cool. I eventually want to be an ATC on VatSim but right now only fly. If you need help just send me a PM, or an email. lightningboltzz@gmail.com

[Tomato]

If you have any questions when you get onto VATSIM, there are many helpful people on there too.  I've met some really incredible people on there, and makes it that much better.  VATSIM has its own forums, and if the controllers aren't too busy they'll be more than happy to help you out too.

I think the two biggest things for me for getting onto VATSIM were how to fly, and phraseology (which if you're apart of LiveATC, probably wouldn't be a problem).  Any questions, just ask!  I'm sure many people (including myself) would be happy to answer your questions.  

[n57flyguy]

I want to do VATSIM but I dont have time right now. You can also get on virtual airlines and virtual corporate charters also, where you fly the actual route that the airlines fly.