Preface

Preface

VATSIM, as a network dedicated to simulating real flying environments, provides an interactive platform for aviation enthusiasts to experience the responsibilities and challenges of real-world air traffic control. In the world of simulated flying, becoming an air traffic controller is a crucial aspect of pursuing an authentic flying experience. Much like their real-world counterparts, simulated air traffic controllers play a vital role within the VATSIM network, ensuring the safety and orderly conduct of flight activities.

While simulated flying is often seen as an entertainment activity, enthusiasts connected to the VATSIM network, whether pilots or controllers, are expected to uphold the highest standards in their roles. As the controller training department of VATPRC, we firmly believe that assessment and evaluation are essential methods to ensure members provide high-quality air traffic control services. Therefore, to enhance their own control proficiency, controllers must pass promotion tests, which include not only theoretical knowledge assessments but also practical evaluations. Each controller trainee will be assigned an Instructor or Mentor who will provide guidance and participate in assessing their control abilities.

In addition to examinations, we strongly encourage controllers to participate in control activities online as much as possible in their daily routines, in order to accumulate valuable experience. While reading study materials is important, the most effective way to solidify knowledge is through practical application, observation of other controllers' operations, and direct involvement in control activities.

At VATPRC, we are committed to cultivating a high-quality team of controllers who possess solid theoretical foundations and demonstrate outstanding control skills in practice. Becoming an air traffic controller is not just a technical challenge but also a demonstration of responsibility and a sense of mission. Through relentless effort and continuous learning, we believe that each member can become an elite controller within the VATSIM network, enhancing the authenticity and enjoyment of simulated flying experiences.

Brief Overview of Your ATC Career

Anyone wishing to use the VATSIM network for either flying or controller must apply for a VATSIM account. This can be done by going to the VATSIM home page and follow the listed instructions. Once you have registered, you will be assigned a 6 or 7 digit ID number and a password, which you will be using to log onto the VATSIM network through a third-party client. VATSIM members who have no previous experience in air traffic controlling (no logged working hours) in VATSIM are considered as “Observers”. You are automatically assigned an Observer (OBS) rating upon your registration. Observers can log onto the network with ATC radar clients (such as VRC, Euroscope, etc.) but are limited to observer positions (i.e. cannot control traffic under any circumstances).

To get on the control tower and talk to the aircrafts on the ground or in the air through the ground transmitter, you must be certified as a controller. On VATSIM, the training director or head instructor supervises all the training activity within the respective FIR. In some cases in which the division is in charge of only one FIR or there is no vACC listed under that division, the training director of the division will be responsible for managing training. On VATSIM, a rating system is in place to distinguish each controller’s knowledge.

1. Administrator (ADM) – this highest rating is reserved for administrative staff members at government level or in executive committee
2. Supervisor (SUP) – personnel monitoring network activity and enforce regulation on the network
3. Senior Instructor (I3/INS+) – responsible for ATC training. Usually more experienced than I1
4. Instructor (I1/INS) – responsible for ATC training
5. Senior Controller (C3/CTR+) – This position is permitted to control all positions, usually more experienced than C1. However, the award condition needs to be determined at this stage
6. Enroute Controller (C1) – This position is permitted to control all positions including Flight Service Station (FSS) according to GLOBAL CONTROLLER
   ADMINISTRATION POLICY
7. TMA Controller (S3) – This position is permitted to control all positions up to APP/DEP level, including all procedural towers.
8. Tower Controller (S2) – Advanced level aerodrome control Controllers holding this rating can control any positions up to tower (TWR). All procedural towers are excepted.
9. Developing Controller (S1) – Beginning level of controller. At most cases, this rating is only for training purposes.
10. Pilot/Observer (OBS)

Once you have passed the exam, you may be promoted to Student rating (STU). At this level you with tutorial lessons and evaluations, you will work on your certificates of controlling the positions of Clarence Delivery (DEL), Ground Control (GND), and Tower Control (TWR). Due to the complexity of certain airspace, you may also be required to receive a certificate before controlling at some busy airports. If you are adept with control all three positions previously mentioned, you can apply for the Senior Student promotional exam. Promotion to the next level (up to Senior Controller) requires a promotional exam.