Virtual Air Traffic Flight Simulation Network
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The Virtual Air Traffic Simulation Network (VATSIM) is an organization whose purpose is the simulation of worldwide air traffic by means of flight simulation and air traffic control software. It is, in essence, a massively multiplayer online game that is accessible to anyone free of charge.
VATSIM users can play the roles of virtual pilots or virtual air traffic controllers, using custom flight-simulator plugins and radar-screen simulation programs. Communications between pilots and controllers are carried out using integrated voice-over-IP or text messages. The simulation is kept as close as possible to real-life aviation procedures, including realistic procedural standards and radio phraseology. This has made VATSIM a training aid to student pilots who lack experience at communication with air traffic control, as well as commercial pilots looking to enhance their skills.[1]
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[edit] History
In the mid 1990s, the evolution of the Internet and modern flight simulators allowed users to fly together using multiplayer functions of the simulators. In 1997, the first version of SquawkBox was created as an add-on for Microsoft's Flight Simulator 95, enhancing the built-in multiplayer features to allow large numbers of players to connect to the game. ProController, a radar simulation program, was created in the same year, and SATCO was formed around the gathering community of aviation enthusiasts. In December 1998, IVAO split away from SATCO due to disagreements in the group. VATSIM was officially formed in July of 2001, effectively replacing SATCO.
[edit] Structure
VATSIM is divided into several regions (such as Europe, North America, Asia and Oceania), and the regions are further subdivided into country-specific divisions (for example VATRUS in Europe or VATUSA in the North America). Divisions are divided into flight information regions or (in the United States) ARTCCs.
Many controllers on VATSIM provide virtual air traffic control services for areas in which they live.
[edit] Membership and Training
As of March 2007, the network has had over 113,000 members register. Membership is free of charge. During peak periods more than 1,000 controllers and pilots may be connected to the network.
New members can connect as pilots immediately after joining but should be able to control their aircraft in the virtual flight space before flying online. They require mandatory training before they are allowed to provide air traffic control. A ranking system for controllers ensures that newcomers will not take demanding positions for which they have not yet received training.
The training program for pilots is optional, but recommended.
[edit] Software
Connection to the VATSIM network is only allowed with approved software listed on the home page. Network connectivity is provided by designated proprietary servers located throughout the world. All servers are interconnected so that users can see each other on the network, no matter which particular server they connect to.
Users need to install custom plugins (such as SquawkBox or FSInn) for flight simulators to connect as pilots, or radar simulation applications (ASRC or VRC) to connect as an air traffic controllers. All applications are free of charge, but closed source.
[edit] See also
[edit] References
- “In imaginary skies, would-be controllers guide pretend pilots,” Peter Sanders, The Wall Street Journal, May 18, 2006, retrieved July 11, 2006.
- “Always A Dull Moment,” John Galvin, Wired Magazine, Issue 11.03 - March 2003.
- “Into the wild blue virtual yonder,” Daniel Terdiman, CNET News, December 18, 2006, retrieved December 18, 2006.
[edit] External links
- VATSIM home page - Official website, includes links to region- and division-specific web sites.
- VATSIM Pilot Resource Center - Information and training for pilot members.
