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Most recent edit on 2007-11-26 19:16:08 by MikeBevington

Additions:
- Study carefully and don?t rush your study.
cooudelcaze
To become a controller you must join a VATSIM Division.
You will NOT be able to join the Division of your choice until you are in the correct Region.
To progress to a higher rating you will need to receive further training and an assessment of competence. Participating in any ATC assessment activity is purely optional, however, the award of higher ratings is dependent on achieving the standards set within the program. The VATSIM rating structure for controllers is listed below.
  1. Administrator (ADM)
  2. Supervisor (SUP)
  3. Senior Instructor (I3)
  4. Instructor (I)
  5. Senior Controller (C3)
  6. Controller (C1)
  7. Senior Student (S3)
  8. Student (S1)
  9. Pilot/Observer (OBS)

    Deletions:
    Join logo∞
To become a controller you must join a VATSIM Division.

You will NOT be able to join the Division of your choice until you are in the correct Region.

To progress to a higher rating you will need to receive further training and an assessment of competence. Participating in any ATC assessment activity is purely optional, however, the award of higher ratings is dependent on achieving the standards set within the program.


Edited on 2006-12-02 22:24:04 by MikeBevington

Additions:
The first step is to register and join VATSIM. You will receive a VATSIM ID and password, which allow you to log on to the VATSIM network.
Join logo∞

Deletions:
The first step is to register and join VATSIM. You will receive a VATSIM ID and password, which allow you to log on to the VATSIM network. If you are not a registered member of VATSIM then you can join here∞.


Edited on 2006-01-07 20:14:57 by RolandCollins

Additions:
The current version of ASRC 1.1 can be downloaded from the "Controller Resources" link on the left hand side of the VATSIM.net homepage∞. At the same link you will also find some support tutorials to help you get started with ASRC. Other ASRC tutorials and resource material can be found at the Avsim File Library∞, or though local training departments.
A full list of all VATSIM approved controller software can be found here∞.
You will also need a sector file for the area you want to observe.

Deletions:
The current version of ASRC 1.1 can be downloaded from the "Controller Resources" link on the left hand side of the VATSIM.net homepage∞.
A full list of all VATSIM approved software can be found here∞.
You will also need a sector file for the area you want to observe.


Edited on 2006-01-04 22:17:50 by RolandCollins

Deletions:
- Other software, which is currently in development (not yet available for general use)


Edited on 2006-01-03 12:43:38 by RuthMcTighe [Changed one sentence and added one in section 4 re software. Correct link added for ASRC]

Additions:
VATSIM is divided into seven Regions, and you must initially select one of these Regions when you first register. Typically a person selects the Region that corresponds to where they live. The Regions each consist of a number of Divisions, and a Division is responsible for controller training within its own airspace.
The current version of ASRC 1.1 can be downloaded from the "Controller Resources" link on the left hand side of the VATSIM.net homepage∞.
You will also need a sector file for the area you want to observe.

Deletions:
VATSIM is divided into seven Regions, and you must initially select one of these Regions when you first register. Typically a person selects the Region that corresponds to where they live. The Regions each consist of a number of Divisions, and a Division is responsible for controller training within it's own airspace.
The current version of ASRC 1.1 can be downloaded from:
VATSIM -> Controller Resources -> Controller Software.
You need sector files in order to run your ATC client program.



Edited on 2005-12-30 15:43:16 by RolandCollins

Additions:
You should contact the Training Department of the Division you have selected and follow instructions and guidelines from the Division/Training staff that will be looking after you. Your Division may assign you to work in a sub-section of the Division, such as an ARTCC, FIR, or vACC, so that you can focus your study on a much smaller area, and here you will work with local staff that will assist in looking after your training needs.
In order to start controlling you will be expected to take a simple assessment to show you have understood the basic concepts of controlling, and you will then be awarded a Student rating. In most cases a Student rating will allow you to perform only certain operations and you must check the details of these with your local Division.
Any inquiry you have about your rating, training or assessment should be directed to your local Division and those responsible for looking after you as ATC.

You only have to ASK!



Deletions:
You should contact the Training Department of the Division you have selected and follow instructions and guidelines from the Division/Training staff that will be looking after you. Your Division may assign you to an ARTCC, FIR, or vACC so that you can focus your study on a much smaller area, and here you will work with local staff that will assist in looking after your training needs. In order to start controlling you will be expected to take a simple assessment to show you have understood the basic concepts of controlling, and you will then be awarded a Student rating. In most case a Student rating will allow you to perform only certain operations and you must check the details of these with your local Division.
Any inquiry you have about your rating, training or assessment should be directed to your local Division and those responsible for looking after you.

You only have to ASK!!




Edited on 2005-12-29 20:24:07 by MikeBevington

Additions:
By Roland Collins & Ruth McTighe


Edited on 2005-12-27 21:16:49 by RolandCollins

Additions:
As ATC you provide a service to others so you are expected to be competent and display a standard appropriate for your ATC rating or position. Training will be provided by VATSIM, and you will be encouraged to participate and to progress through the ratings as far as you wish. You can begin by simply observing, watching and listening only, as preparation for your training.
Sector files contain the controller maps, airspace and aerodrome information for the area a controller is looking at on their screen
You need sector files in order to run your ATC client program.

Visit the website of your chosen Division and obtain the latest local sector files.
You should contact the Training Department of the Division you have selected and follow instructions and guidelines from the Division/Training staff that will be looking after you. Your Division may assign you to an ARTCC, FIR, or vACC so that you can focus your study on a much smaller area, and here you will work with local staff that will assist in looking after your training needs.
In order to start controlling you will be expected to take a simple assessment to show you have understood the basic concepts of controlling, and you will then be awarded a Student rating. In most case a Student rating will allow you to perform only certain operations and you must check the details of these with your local Division.

Deletions:
As ATC you provide a service to others so you are expected to be competent and display a standard appropriate for your ATC rating or position. Training will be provided by VATSIM, and you will be encouraged to participate and to progress through the ratings as far as you wish. You can begin by simply observing, watching and listening only, as preparation for further training.
Sector files contain the controller maps, airspace and aerodrome information for the area being looked at on your controller screen, and these are needed to run your ATC client program.
Visit the website of your chosen Division and obtain the latest local sector files.

You should contact the Training Department of the Division you have selected and follow instructions and guidelines from the Division/Training staff that will be looking after you. Your Division may assign you to an ARTCC, FIR, or vACC so that you can focus your study on a smaller area, and here you will work with local staff that will look after your training needs.
In order to start controlling you will be expected to take a simple assessment to show you have understood the basic concepts of controlling, and you will then be awarded a Student rating. In most case a Student rating will allow only certain operations and you must check the details of these with your local Division.


Edited on 2005-12-27 20:09:19 by RolandCollins

Additions:

How To Become a VATSIM Controller

Controller Introduction

Contents:
  1. Selecting a Division
  2. Controller software
  3. Controller training
  4. Controller ratings
  5. Controller rules
  6. Helpful tips

1: The Role of the Controller

As ATC you provide a service to others so you are expected to be competent and display a standard appropriate for your ATC rating or position. Training will be provided by VATSIM, and you will be encouraged to participate and to progress through the ratings as far as you wish. You can begin by simply observing, watching and listening only, as preparation for further training.

2: Joining VATSIM

The first step is to register and join VATSIM. You will receive a VATSIM ID and password, which allow you to log on to the VATSIM network. If you are not a registered member of VATSIM then you can join here∞.
VATSIM is divided into seven Regions, and you must initially select one of these Regions when you first register. Typically a person selects the Region that corresponds to where they live. The Regions each consist of a number of Divisions, and a Division is responsible for controller training within it's own airspace.
To become a controller you must join a VATSIM Division.

Click here∞ to check the Region/Division to which you are currently assigned.

3: Selecting a Division

Which Division should I join?
To help you find a VATSIM Division you can use the world map and links on the right hand side of the VATSIM.net homepage∞.

If you are NOT already in the correct Region then you should first change Region by clicking here∞.
Note: A Region Transfer is performed manually and may take a few days.
You will NOT be able to join the Division of your choice until you are in the correct Region.

Once you are in the correct Region you can join the Division of your choice by clicking here∞.

4: Controller Software

To get started you will need a program that connects to the VATSIM network and simulates an ATC radar screen. As soon as you are able you should log on and observe controllers in action.
VATSIM uses the following ATC client software:
The current version of ASRC 1.1 can be downloaded from:
VATSIM -> Controller Resources -> Controller Software.
A full list of all VATSIM approved software can be found here∞.
What are sector files?
Sector files contain the controller maps, airspace and aerodrome information for the area being looked at on your controller screen, and these are needed to run your ATC client program.
Visit the website of your chosen Division and obtain the latest local sector files.

Website links for each Division are shown on the world map on the right hand side of the VATSIM.net homepage∞.
You can also access other useful resources such as the maps and charts that a pilot uses. A central store of these can be found here∞.

5: Controller Training

The Division you have selected will provide your training and assessment.
You should contact the Training Department of the Division you have selected and follow instructions and guidelines from the Division/Training staff that will be looking after you. Your Division may assign you to an ARTCC, FIR, or vACC so that you can focus your study on a smaller area, and here you will work with local staff that will look after your training needs.
Once you have joined a Division, you should visit their website and read about the local procedures for training and assessment. This may be delivered in a variety of methods in order to cater for individual needs, and allows for a complete beginner NEW to aviation, as well as a person with real world qualifications within the aviation industry.
You can generally access all of the study material that you need free of charge from on-line sources listed by your local Division. You may want to print on-line maps, charts, airport diagrams, etc since the printed form makes your study easier. If you have current real world aviation material then you can use that on-line, in fact most Divisions encourage it.

6: Controller ratings

The ATC rating system is a simple scheme to mark the achievement of specific skills in ATC. At the beginning you will be an observer while you complete your basic study.
In order to start controlling you will be expected to take a simple assessment to show you have understood the basic concepts of controlling, and you will then be awarded a Student rating. In most case a Student rating will allow only certain operations and you must check the details of these with your local Division.
To progress to a higher rating you will need to receive further training and an assessment of competence. Participating in any ATC assessment activity is purely optional, however, the award of higher ratings is dependent on achieving the standards set within the program.
How will my rating change?
Your rating can only be changed by your local VATSIM Division, those looking after your training and assessment.
Any inquiry you have about your rating, training or assessment should be directed to your local Division and those responsible for looking after you.

7: Controller rules

Which rules will apply to me?
On-line users must obey all VATSIM rules at all times.
You should click here∞ to check those parts of the VATSIM Code of Conduct that deal with Controller behaviour.
There are also Global Rules issued by the VATSIM Executive Committee and you should click here∞ to check these.
As well as all VATSIM rules, you must also obey any Local Rules formulated by your Region/Division. Check with your Division to find out more about these.
Can I be totally realistic?
Generally on-line airspace rules and procedures are the same as those found in the real world.
Whilst VATSIM tries to make the on-line simulation close to real world behaviour there are situations where this is not possible and some rationalisation must be applied.
You should check with your Division about how local airspace is being implemented, and find out about any local deviation from real world practice.

8: Some helpful tips

Remember you are not alone.
Help is available every step of the way.

You only have to ASK!!


Deletions:

How To Become a VATSIM Controller

Controller Introduction
Contents:
  1. The software
  2. Training
The Role of the Controller
As ATC you provide a service to others so you are expected to be competent and display a standard appropriate for your ATC rating or position. Training will be provided by VATSIM, and you will be encouraged to participate and to progress through the ratings as far as you wish.
How do I become a controller?
Although not a requirement, it is much better if you already have some experience on-line as a Pilot/Observer before taking on the more demanding role of ATC. Time on-line as a pilot is valuable since it helps you to understand the needs of pilots and prepares you for the ATC role.
Joining VATSIM
The first step is to register and join VATSIM. You will receive a VATSIM ID and password which allow you to log on to the VATSIM network. If you are not a registered member of VATSIM then you can join here∞.
Who provides the Air Traffic Services?
The VATSIM Divisions that make up the 7 Regions provide Air Traffic Services throughout the VATSIM world. At registration as a Pilot/Observer you are initially assigned to a Region and are not required to be a member of a Division.
VATSIM is divided into seven regions, and you are initially assigned to one when you register. The regions each consist of a number of divisions, and it is these that are responsible for controller training. To become a controller you must join a VATSIM Division. Click here∞ to check the Region/Division to which you are currently assigned.
Which Division should I join?
To help you find a VATSIM Division you can use the world map and links on the right hand side of the VATSIM.net homepage∞.
If you are already assigned to the correct Region you can join the Division of your choice by clicking here∞.
If you are not already in the correct Region then you should change Region first by clicking here∞ before you are able to join the Division of your choice.
The Software
To get started you will need a program which connects to the network and simulates an ATC radar screen. VATSIM uses ASRC, the Advanced Simulated Radar Client, which is based on the real world ATC systems in use at many U.S. ATC facilities. ASRC can be downloaded from the Software>Controller Software menu. As soon as you are able you should log on and observe controllers in action.
You will need to visit the website of your chosen division to obtain the appopriate sector files, which contain the maps, airspace and aerodrome information for the area you are observing. (Need to add link)
Controller Training
Once you have joined a VATSIM Division you should contact Training Staff within your selected Division and arrange any training or assessment.
Your selected Division provides Training and Assessment.
Training and assessment will be provided by the Division you have selected. Once you have joined a Division, you should visit their website and read about the local procedures for training and assessment. This may be delivered in a variety of methods in order to cater for individual needs, and allows for a complete beginner NEW to aviation, as well as a person with real world qualifications within the aviation industry.
You can generally access all of the study material that you need free of charge from on-line sources listed by your local Division. You do not have to buy expensive hard copy materials. You may want to print on-line maps, charts, airport diagrams, etc since the printed form makes your study easier. If you have current real world aviation material then you can use that on-line, in fact most Divisions encourage it.
Your local division may be sub-divided into ARTCC?s, FIR?s, or VACC?s. When you contact your chosen Division you may be assigned to a sub-division so you can focus your study on a smaller area.
Once you are assigned to a Division you should follow instructions and guidelines from senior persons who will be looking after you, or those that you will work with.
Which rules will apply to me?
On-line users must obey all VATSIM rules at all times. You should click here∞ to check those parts of the VATSIM Code of Conduct that deal with Controller behaviour. There are also Global Rules issued by the VATSIM Executive Committee and you should click here∞ to check these. As well as all VATSIM rules you must also obey any Local Rules formulated by your Region/Division. Check with your Division to find out more about these.
Generally on-line airspace rules and procedures are the same as those in the real world. VATSIM tries to make the on-line simulation close to real world behaviour but there are situations where this is not possible. You should check with your Division about any local deviation from real world practice.
What will I need?


To get started you will need controller client software such as ASRC. As soon as you are able you should log-on and observe others in action.

If you intend to work in voice you will also need voice client software. This may be built-in such as ASRC, or can be stand-alone voice software such as Roger Wilco.

Check here∞ to find software that is approved by VATSIM for on-line use:

Before using voice you should check with your Division to see if there are any local requirements.
What is the rating system all about?
The ATC rating system is a simple goal-oriented scheme to facilitate self-fulfilment. Promotion through the various rating levels is largely a matter of personal satisfaction.
The ATC rating system is a simple scheme to mark the achievement of specific skills in ATC. In order to start controlling you will be expected to take a simple assessment to show you have understood the basic concepts of controlling, and you will then be awarded a Student rating.
Once you are a student, most divisions will require you to undertake some introductory training. To progress to a higher rating you will need to receive further training and an assessment of competence. Participating in any ATC training or assessment activity is purely optional, however those who participate are expected to reach the standards set within any program. however, the award of higher ratings is dependent on achieving the standards set within the program.

How will my rating change?
It will be necessary for you to receive ATC training and be assessed so that your VATSIM Rating can be changed.
Your rating can only be changed by your VATSIM Division. Any inquiry you have about your rating or assessment should be directed to your Division and those responsible for looking after you.
Some helpful tips
Remember you are not alone, help is available every step of the way.
You only have to ASK!!


Edited on 2005-12-27 10:30:43 by RuthMcTighe [reordering of contents, new introductory paragraph and some simplification and updating]

Additions:
Welcome to VATSIM, the Virtual Air Traffic Simulation Network
The following information tells you how to become an on-line controller with VATSIM.net.
Contents:
  1. The role of the controller
  2. Joining VATSIM
  3. The software
  4. Training
The Role of the Controller
As in the real world, the role of the Air Traffic Controller is to:
As ATC you provide a service to others so you are expected to be competent and display a standard appropriate for your ATC rating or position. Training will be provided by VATSIM, and you will be encouraged to participate and to progress through the ratings as far as you wish.
How do I become a controller?
Although not a requirement, it is much better if you already have some experience on-line as a Pilot/Observer before taking on the more demanding role of ATC. Time on-line as a pilot is valuable since it helps you to understand the needs of pilots and prepares you for the ATC role.
Joining VATSIM
The first step is to register and join VATSIM. You will receive a VATSIM ID and password which allow you to log on to the VATSIM network. If you are not a registered member of VATSIM then you can join here∞.
Who provides the Air Traffic Services?
The VATSIM Divisions that make up the 7 Regions provide Air Traffic Services throughout the VATSIM world. At registration as a Pilot/Observer you are initially assigned to a Region and are not required to be a member of a Division.
VATSIM is divided into seven regions, and you are initially assigned to one when you register. The regions each consist of a number of divisions, and it is these that are responsible for controller training. To become a controller you must join a VATSIM Division. Click here∞ to check the Region/Division to which you are currently assigned.
Which Division should I join?
There is generally no restriction on which VATSIM Division you should join but it is best to join the one that covers the real world airspace where you live. As ATC you should know your airspace well so there will be lots to learn about procedures, rules, terrain, locations, navaids, routes, etc, and it is easiest to learn in your local airspace. Learning in your local airspace provides you with the best opportunities to study the real world ATC counterparts and listen to them in operation. It also provides the best access to real world maps/chart etc to support your studies.
To help you find a VATSIM Division you can use the world map and links on the right hand side of the VATSIM.net homepage∞.
The Software
To get started you will need a program which connects to the network and simulates an ATC radar screen. VATSIM uses ASRC, the Advanced Simulated Radar Client, which is based on the real world ATC systems in use at many U.S. ATC facilities. ASRC can be downloaded from the Software>Controller Software menu. As soon as you are able you should log on and observe controllers in action.
You will need to visit the website of your chosen division to obtain the appopriate sector files, which contain the maps, airspace and aerodrome information for the area you are observing. (Need to add link)
Controller Training
Once you have joined a VATSIM Division you should contact Training Staff within your selected Division and arrange any training or assessment.
Your selected Division provides Training and Assessment.
Training and assessment will be provided by the Division you have selected. Once you have joined a Division, you should visit their website and read about the local procedures for training and assessment. This may be delivered in a variety of methods in order to cater for individual needs, and allows for a complete beginner NEW to aviation, as well as a person with real world qualifications within the aviation industry.
You can generally access all of the study material that you need free of charge from on-line sources listed by your local Division. You do not have to buy expensive hard copy materials. You may want to print on-line maps, charts, airport diagrams, etc since the printed form makes your study easier. If you have current real world aviation material then you can use that on-line, in fact most Divisions encourage it.
Your local division may be sub-divided into ARTCC?s, FIR?s, or VACC?s. When you contact your chosen Division you may be assigned to a sub-division so you can focus your study on a smaller area.
On-line users must obey all VATSIM rules at all times. You should click here∞ to check those parts of the VATSIM Code of Conduct that deal with Controller behaviour. There are also Global Rules issued by the VATSIM Executive Committee and you should click here∞ to check these. As well as all VATSIM rules you must also obey any Local Rules formulated by your Region/Division. Check with your Division to find out more about these.
What will I need?


To get started you will need controller client software such as ASRC. As soon as you are able you should log-on and observe others in action.

If you intend to work in voice you will also need voice client software. This may be built-in such as ASRC, or can be stand-alone voice software such as Roger Wilco.

Check here∞ to find software that is approved by VATSIM for on-line use:

Before using voice you should check with your Division to see if there are any local requirements.
The ATC rating system is a simple goal-oriented scheme to facilitate self-fulfilment. Promotion through the various rating levels is largely a matter of personal satisfaction.
The ATC rating system is a simple scheme to mark the achievement of specific skills in ATC. In order to start controlling you will be expected to take a simple assessment to show you have understood the basic concepts of controlling, and you will then be awarded a Student rating.
Once you are a student, most divisions will require you to undertake some introductory training. To progress to a higher rating you will need to receive further training and an assessment of competence. Participating in any ATC training or assessment activity is purely optional, however those who participate are expected to reach the standards set within any program. however, the award of higher ratings is dependent on achieving the standards set within the program.

How will my rating change?
It will be necessary for you to receive ATC training and be assessed so that your VATSIM Rating can be changed.
Your rating can only be changed by your VATSIM Division. Any inquiry you have about your rating or assessment should be directed to your Division and those responsible for looking after you.

Deletions:
The following information is provided for those wishing to become an on-line controller with VATSIM.net.
To begin you must have a current VATSIM ID and Password.
If you are not a registered member of VATSIM then you can join here∞.
How do I become a controller?
Although not a requirement, it is much better if you already have some experience on-line as a Pilot/Observer before taking on the more demanding role of ATC. Time on-line as a pilot is valuable since it helps you to understand the needs of pilots and prepares you for the ATC role.
As ATC you provide a service to others so you are expected to be competent and display a standard appropriate for your ATC rating or position.
Who provides the Air Traffic Services?
The VATSIM Divisions that make up the 7 Regions provide Air Traffic Services throughout the VATSIM world. At registration as a Pilot/Observer you are initially assigned to a Region and are not required to be a member of a Division.
To become a controller you must join a VATSIM Division.
Click here∞ to check the Region/Division to which you are currently assigned.
Which Division should I join?
There is generally no restriction on which VATSIM Division you should join but it is best to join the one that covers the real world airspace where you live.
As ATC you should know your airspace well so there will be lots to learn about procedures, rules, terrain, locations, navaids, routes, etc, and it is easiest to learn in your local airspace.
Learning in your local airspace provides you with the best opportunities to study the real world ATC counterparts and listen to them in operation. It also provides the best access to real world maps/chart etc to support your studies.
To help you find a VATSIM Division you can use the world map and links on the right hand side of the VATSIM.net homepage∞.
How will I receive training?
Once you have joined a VATSIM Division you should contact Training Staff within your selected Division and arrange any training or assessment.
Your selected Division provides Training and Assessment.
This may be delivered in a variety of methods in order to cater for individual needs, and allows for a complete beginner NEW to aviation, as well as a person with real world qualifications within the aviation industry.
You can generally access all of the study material that you need from on-line sources listed by your local Division. You do not have to buy expensive hard copy materials.
You may want to print on-line maps, charts, airport diagrams, etc since the printed form makes your study easier. If you have current real world aviation material then you can use that on-line, in fact most Divisions encourage it.
Your local division may be sub-divided into ARTCC?s, FIR?s, or VACC?s. When you contact your chosen Division you may be assigned to a sub-division so you can focus your study on a smaller area.
On-line users must obey all VATSIM rules at all times. You should click here∞ to check those parts of the VATSIM Code of Conduct that deal with Controller behaviour. There are also Global Rules issued by the VATSIM Executive Committee and you should click here∞ to check these.
As well as all VATSIM rules you must also obey any Local Rules formulated by your Region/Division. Check with your Division to find out more about these.
What will I need?
To get started you will need controller client software such as ASRC. As soon as you are able you should log-on and observe others in action.
If you intend to work in voice you will also need voice client software. This may be built-in such as ASRC, or can be stand-alone voice software such as Roger Wilco.
Check here∞ to find software that is approved by VATSIM for on-line use:
Before using voice you should check with your Division to see if there are any local requirements.
The ATC rating system is a simple goal-oriented scheme to facilitate self-fulfilment. Promotion through the various rating levels is largely a matter of personal satisfaction.
Participating in any ATC training or assessment activity is purely optional, however those who participate are expected to reach the standards set within any program.
How will my rating change?
It will be necessary for you to receive ATC training and be assessed so that your VATSIM Rating can be changed.
Your rating can only be changed by your VATSIM Division.
Any inquiry you have about your rating or assessment should be directed to your Division and those responsible for looking after you.


Edited on 2005-12-03 11:26:26 by MikeBevington

Additions:
Categories:

Deletions:
Categories


Edited on 2005-12-03 11:26:02 by MikeBevington

Additions:
Categories
CategoryLesson


Oldest known version of this page was edited on 2005-12-03 11:20:30 by MikeBevington []
Page view:

How To Become a VATSIM Controller



Controller Introduction
The following information is provided for those wishing to become an on-line controller with VATSIM.net.
To begin you must have a current VATSIM ID and Password.
If you are not a registered member of VATSIM then you can join here∞.


How do I become a controller?
Although not a requirement, it is much better if you already have some experience on-line as a Pilot/Observer before taking on the more demanding role of ATC. Time on-line as a pilot is valuable since it helps you to understand the needs of pilots and prepares you for the ATC role.

As ATC you provide a service to others so you are expected to be competent and display a standard appropriate for your ATC rating or position.


Who provides the Air Traffic Services?
The VATSIM Divisions that make up the 7 Regions provide Air Traffic Services throughout the VATSIM world. At registration as a Pilot/Observer you are initially assigned to a Region and are not required to be a member of a Division.

To become a controller you must join a VATSIM Division.

Click here∞ to check the Region/Division to which you are currently assigned.


Which Division should I join?
There is generally no restriction on which VATSIM Division you should join but it is best to join the one that covers the real world airspace where you live.

As ATC you should know your airspace well so there will be lots to learn about procedures, rules, terrain, locations, navaids, routes, etc, and it is easiest to learn in your local airspace.

Learning in your local airspace provides you with the best opportunities to study the real world ATC counterparts and listen to them in operation. It also provides the best access to real world maps/chart etc to support your studies.

To help you find a VATSIM Division you can use the world map and links on the right hand side of the VATSIM.net homepage∞.

If you are already assigned to the correct Region you can join the Division of your choice by clicking here∞.

If you are not already in the correct Region then you should change Region first by clicking here∞ before you are able to join the Division of your choice.


How will I receive training?
Once you have joined a VATSIM Division you should contact Training Staff within your selected Division and arrange any training or assessment.
Your selected Division provides Training and Assessment.

This may be delivered in a variety of methods in order to cater for individual needs, and allows for a complete beginner NEW to aviation, as well as a person with real world qualifications within the aviation industry.

You can generally access all of the study material that you need from on-line sources listed by your local Division. You do not have to buy expensive hard copy materials.

You may want to print on-line maps, charts, airport diagrams, etc since the printed form makes your study easier. If you have current real world aviation material then you can use that on-line, in fact most Divisions encourage it.

Your local division may be sub-divided into ARTCC?s, FIR?s, or VACC?s. When you contact your chosen Division you may be assigned to a sub-division so you can focus your study on a smaller area.

Once you are assigned to a Division you should follow instructions and guidelines from senior persons who will be looking after you, or those that you will work with.


Which rules will apply to me?
On-line users must obey all VATSIM rules at all times. You should click here∞ to check those parts of the VATSIM Code of Conduct that deal with Controller behaviour. There are also Global Rules issued by the VATSIM Executive Committee and you should click here∞ to check these.

As well as all VATSIM rules you must also obey any Local Rules formulated by your Region/Division. Check with your Division to find out more about these.

Generally on-line airspace rules and procedures are the same as those in the real world. VATSIM tries to make the on-line simulation close to real world behaviour but there are situations where this is not possible. You should check with your Division about any local deviation from real world practice.


What will I need?
To get started you will need controller client software such as ASRC. As soon as you are able you should log-on and observe others in action.

If you intend to work in voice you will also need voice client software. This may be built-in such as ASRC, or can be stand-alone voice software such as Roger Wilco.

Check here∞ to find software that is approved by VATSIM for on-line use:

Before using voice you should check with your Division to see if there are any local requirements.


What is the rating system all about?
The ATC rating system is a simple goal-oriented scheme to facilitate self-fulfilment. Promotion through the various rating levels is largely a matter of personal satisfaction.

Participating in any ATC training or assessment activity is purely optional, however those who participate are expected to reach the standards set within any program.


How will my rating change?
It will be necessary for you to receive ATC training and be assessed so that your VATSIM Rating can be changed.

Your rating can only be changed by your VATSIM Division.

Any inquiry you have about your rating or assessment should be directed to your Division and those responsible for looking after you.


Some helpful tips

Remember you are not alone, help is available every step of the way.
You only have to ASK!!
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