Editing Virtual Air Traffic Simulation Network

{{Short description|Virtual Air Traffic Control Software}}
{{Primary sources|date=June 2024}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=July 2013}}
{{Infobox organization
| name = Virtual Air Traffic Simulation Network
| image = [[File:Virtual Air Traffic Simulation Network (logo).png|Vatsim|300px]]
| size = 200px
| abbreviation = VATSIM
| formation = {{Start date and age|2001|07}}
| type = [[Nonprofit organization]]
| purpose = Provide an online air traffic control and flying community for aviation enthusiasts
| region_served = Worldwide
| membership = Private persons
| leader_title = President
| leader_name = Tim Barber<ref>{{cite web |url=https://vatsim.net/docs/staff/bog |title =VATSIM - Board of Governors| date=October 11, 2023 }}</ref>
| main_organ = Board of Governors
| affiliations = 
| num_staff = 100+
| num_members = >800,000 (120,000 active in the last 6 months)
| website = {{URL|https://www.vatsim.net}}
}}
'''Virtual Air Traffic Simulation Network''' ('''VATSIM''') is a [[Nonprofit organization|nonprofit]] organization that operates an online [[flight simulation|flight-simulation]] network noted for its active membership and realism.<ref name="fsxbook1">
{{cite book
  | last = Van West
  | first = Jeff
  | author2 = Kevin Lane-Cummings
  | title = Microsoft Flight Simulator X for Pilots
  | publisher = John Wiley and Sons
  | year = 2007
  | pages = 672–685
  | url = https://books.google.com/books?id=RT9v6Bhl420C&q=virtual+airline&pg=PR17
  | isbn = 978-0-7645-8822-8
  | quote = VATSIM is the largest network, with more than 110,000 registered members
}}
</ref><ref name=tdg1>
{{cite news
  | last = Stewart
  | first = Laverne
  | title = Flight Simulation
  | newspaper = [[The Daily Gleaner]]
  | url = https://www.wired.com/gamelife/2006/11/air_traffic_con/
  | access-date = March 24, 2011
  | date=December 5, 2009}}
</ref><ref name="abc1">{{cite news |last=Rheinberger |first=Joel |date=November 28, 2008 |title=Flight simulator takes off in Lauderdale |publisher=[[936 ABC Hobart]] |url=https://www.wired.com/gamelife/2006/11/air_traffic_con/ |url-status=dead |access-date=March 24, 2011 |archive-date=June 4, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110604020016/http://www.wired.com/gamelife/2006/11/air_traffic_con/ }}</ref><ref>{{cite book
  | last = Radcliffe
  | first = Doug
  | author2 = Andy Mahood
  | title = Microsoft Flight Simulator 2004: A Century of Flight (Official Strategy Guide)
  | publisher = John Wiley & Sons
  | year = 2003
  | url = https://books.google.com/books?id=QDwAFiQ4B1MC
  | isbn = 0-7821-4237-0
  | page = 188
}}</ref> Users are able to connect to VATSIM and fly aircraft as a [[Aircraft pilot|pilot]], or direct traffic as an [[air traffic controller]] in what has been described as a close approximation of real-life [[aviation]] procedures.<ref name=wsj1>
{{cite news
  | last = Sanders
  | first = Peter
  | title = In Imaginary Skies, Would-Be Controllers Guide Pretend Pilots
  | newspaper = Wall Street Journal
  | url = https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB114791326544456106?mod=hps_us_pageone
  | access-date = April 29, 2008
  | date=May 18, 2006}}
</ref><ref name=synth1>{{cite book
  | last = Castronova
  | first = Edward
  | title = Synthetic Worlds: The Business and Culture of Online Games
  | publisher = University of Chicago Press
  | year = 2005
  | url = https://archive.org/details/syntheticworlds00edwa
  | url-access = registration
  | isbn = 0-226-09626-2
  | page = [https://archive.org/details/syntheticworlds00edwa/page/158 158]
}}</ref><ref name=flying1>{{cite magazine
  | last = Wallace
  | first = Lane
  | title = Microsoft Unveils Mission-Capable Flight Sim X
  | page = 45
  | quote = Systems like VATSIM are apparently very strict experiences, however, with standards for training and currency that can be more intense and involved than some pilots want to undertake.
  | magazine = [[Flying (magazine)|Flying]]
  | date = October 1, 2006
  | url = http://www.zinio.com/pages/Flying/Oct-06/168660111/pg-47
  | archive-url = https://archive.today/20130210062001/http://www.zinio.com/pages/Flying/Oct-06/168660111/pg-47
  | url-status = dead
  | archive-date = February 10, 2013
  | access-date = April 15, 2009
  }}</ref><ref name=alessandropaper>
{{cite tech report 
  | first = Nic
  | last = D'Alessandro
  | title = Transference of PC based simulation to aviation training: issues in learning
  | publisher = InSite Solutions (Tas.) Pty Ltd
  | date = November 15, 2007
  | url = https://indianaviationnews.net/allimages/AlessandroPaper.pdf
  | access-date = 2022-07-16}}
</ref>

==Overview==
Communications between pilots and controllers are carried out using integrated [[Voice over IP|VoIP]] or in-game text messages. Users are required to use custom [[software]], designated as approved [[Client (computing)|clients]], in order to connect to the simulation.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://vatsim.net/docs/policy/approved-software|title=Approved Software|website=www.vatsim.net|access-date=2022-07-16}}</ref>

The main organs of the network consist of the Board of Governors,<ref>{{Cite web|title=Board of Governors|url=https://vatsim.net/docs/staff/bog|website=www.vatsim.net|access-date=2022-07-16}}</ref> three of whom are responsible for one of the three geographic regions—namely, the Europe, the Middle East and Africa region, the [[Asia-Pacific]] region, and the [[Americas]] region,<ref>{{Cite web|title=Regions|url=https://vatsim.net/docs/regions/regions|website=www.vatsim.net|access-date=2022-07-16}}</ref> referred to as VATEUD (Europe division), VATMENA (Middle East - North Africa division), VATAPAC (Asia-Pacific division) and VATAMAS (Americas division). These regions are further subdivided into divisions, some of which further divide into virtual [[area control center]]s, and virtual [[air route traffic control center]]s. Operating procedures within each area reflect local standards.<ref>
{{cite magazine
  | last = Galvin
  | first = John
  | title = Always a Dull Moment
  | magazine = [[Wired (magazine)|Wired]]
  | date = March 2003
  | url = https://www.wired.com/wired/archive/11.03/dull.html?pg=1&topic=&topic_set=
  | access-date = April 14, 2008}}
</ref>

The network also has a volunteer team of supervisors<ref>{{Cite web|title=What is a VATSIM Supervisor? {{!}} VATSIM Inc. Support|url=https://support.vatsim.net/kb/faq.php?id=18|website=www.vatsim.net|access-date=2022-07-16}}</ref> that help those who may need assistance in flying on the network and also help resolve reports of other fellow users breaking the VATSIM Code of Conduct.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web|title=Code Of Conduct|url=https://vatsim.net/docs/policy/code-of-conduct|website=www.vatsim.net|access-date=2022-07-16}}</ref> Upon registering for the VATSIM network, new users have to undertake an entry-level test about basic piloting skills and about the rules of the network.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |date=January 22, 2025 |title=Migration to Enhanced New Member Orientation Course |url=https://forum.vatsim.net/t/migration-to-enhanced-new-member-orientation-course/7636 |access-date=2020-05-01 |website=VATSIM Community |language=en-US}}</ref> This was introduced on September 1, 2020, alongside a further restructuring of the pilot rating system to teach VATSIM users how to properly use the network and reduce the number of cases of pilots connecting without knowing what to do in busy airspace, causing disruption and frustration for some controllers. An update to this system was implemented in early 2025 as the "New Member Orientation Course", which replaced the older system of initial training for new members.

Because the simulation adheres as closely as possible to real-life aviation procedures and radio phraseology, VATSIM can function as a training aid for student pilots lacking experience and private and commercial pilots looking to enhance their skills in radio communications.<ref>{{cite book
  | last = Maharg
  | first = Paul
  | title = Transforming Legal Education
  | publisher = Ashgate Publishing
  | year = 2007
  | url = https://books.google.com/books?id=8-zmLbJ8ODoC
  | isbn = 978-0-7546-4970-0
  | page = 165
}}</ref> Events in the simulation are not [[hard coded]] on the network but rather emerge through human interaction and error.<ref>{{cite web
  | last = McCracken
  | first = Grant
  | title = How virtual worlds discovered dynamism
  | work = Intersection of Anthropology and Economics
  | date = May 16, 2006
  | url = http://www.cultureby.com/trilogy/2006/05/how_virtual_wor.html
  | access-date = July 14, 2008
  | archive-date = August 31, 2009
  | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090831073124/http://www.cultureby.com/trilogy/2006/05/how_virtual_wor.html
  | url-status = dead
  }}</ref> Consequently, the network has been described as bringing immersion to what was historically a solitary exercise<ref name="tdg1" /> and credited with playing a key role in the commodification of flight-simulation software.<ref name="airspace1" /><ref name="March1">{{cite journal|last=Takeda|first=K.|author2=Newman, S.J.|author3=Kenny, J.|author4=Zyskowski, M|year=2008|title=Convergence: commodity flight simulation and the future|url=http://www.raes.org.uk/purchase_journal.asp?number=1136|journal=[[Royal Aeronautical Society#Publications|Aeronautical Journal]]|location=[[California]]|publisher=[[University of California]]|volume=112|issue=1136|pages=599–607|doi=10.1017/S0001924000002566|s2cid=58712971|access-date=May 7, 2009|archive-date=January 11, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090111124246/http://www.raes.org.uk/purchase_journal.asp?number=1136|url-status=dead|url-access=subscription}}</ref>

==History==
===Formation of VATSIM===
Spearheaded by Harvey Stein, the founding of VATSIM was announced on July 12, 2001, following the dissolution of the Simulated Air Traffic Controllers Organization (SATCO). This occurred after the founding of another network, [[International Virtual Aviation Organisation|IVAO]],<ref name="cnet1">{{cite news
  | last = Terdiman
  | first = Daniel
  | title = Into the wild blue virtual yonder
  | quote = It formed in 2001 when internal politics in a precursor network, SATCO, caused a rupture that resulted in two rival networks: VatSim ... and IVAO
  | publisher = [[CNET]] News.com
  | date = December 16, 2006
  | url = http://www.news.com/Into-the-wild-blue-virtual-yonder/2100-1043_3-6144347.html
  | archive-url = https://archive.today/20130104052722/http://www.news.com/Into-the-wild-blue-virtual-yonder/2100-1043_3-6144347.html
  | url-status = dead
  | archive-date = January 4, 2013
  | access-date = April 29, 2008
  }}</ref> which was more European-oriented, unlike SATCO, which was more American-oriented. The board drew up terms of agreement with Randy Whistler, the then President of SATCO, declaring VATSIM the official successor of SATCO.<ref>{{Cite web|title=2001, Meeting 1 {{!}} VATSIM.net|url=https://cdn.vatsim.net/meeting-minutes/bog/BOG_2001_1.PDF|website=www.vatsim.net|access-date=2022-07-16}}</ref>

In 2020, VATSIM announced it had achieved 100,000 active users for the first time,<ref name=":5">{{Cite web|title=An Incredible Milestone for VATSIM - Announcements & Important Notices - VATSIM Community|url=https://forums.vatsim.net/topic/29132-an-incredible-milestone-for-vatsim/|access-date=2022-07-16|website=VATSIM Community|date=September 14, 2020 |language=en-US}}</ref> an increase of 20,000 users in two years.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://forums.vatsim.net/topic/21855-vatsim-achieves-membership-milestone/|title=VATSIM Achieves membership milestone - Announcements & Important Notices - VATSIM Community|website=VATSIM Community|date=July 23, 2018 |language=en-US|access-date=2022-07-16}}</ref>

===SquawkBox and ProController===
The advent of the Internet in the mid-1990s enabled users of modern flight simulators to fly together using multiplayer functionality. In 1997, ''SquawkBox''<ref>{{Cite web|title=SquawkBox|url=http://squawkbox.ca/news/|website=squawkbox.ca|access-date=2020-05-01}}</ref> was created by Jason Grooms as an add-on for ''[[History of Microsoft Flight Simulator#Flight Simulator for Windows 95|Microsoft Flight Simulator 95]]'', enhancing the built-in multiplayer features to allow large numbers of players to connect to the game. ''ProController'',<ref>{{Cite news|date=2001-11-19|title=VATSIM gets it together|work=AOPA Magazine|url=https://www.worldflight.com.au/worldflight/aopa1.pdf|access-date=2020-05-03}}</ref> a radar-simulation program also developed by Jason Grooms, was created in the same year to connect virtual pilots with virtual controllers. The ''FSD Server'' was created by Marty Bochane to provide the signaling infrastructure and logic required to integrate ''ProController'' and ''Squawkbox'', enabling users to fly in real-world weather conditions. ProController was retired as an approved ATC client on March 13, 2004.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2003-12-10|title=Approved Software|url=http://www.vatsim.net/software.html|access-date=2021-03-14|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20031210114150/http://www.vatsim.net/software.html|archive-date=December 10, 2003}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Approved Software|url=http://www.vatsim.net:80/software.html|date=2004-04-03|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040403231732/http://www.vatsim.net:80/software.html|access-date=2020-05-04|archive-date=April 3, 2004}}</ref>[[File:Vatsim screenshot 1.jpg|thumb|Screenshot of the ASRC (Advanced Simulated Radar Client) program that was used by ATC on VATSIM|alt=]]

===ASRC and Roger Wilco===
Sometime in 2002,<ref>{{Cite web|title=Introduction|url=http://www.asrc.info/ASRC%20Documentation/Introduction.html|website=www.asrc.info|access-date=2020-05-03}}</ref> ProController was slowly being phased out in favour of ASRC (Advanced Simulated Radar Client),<ref name=":3">{{Cite web|title=Advanced Simulated Radar Client (ASRC)|url=http://www.asrc.info/|website=www.asrc.info|access-date=2020-05-04}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=ASRC video|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eo_tG4GvJuI|date=2007-11-24|website=YouTube|access-date=2020-05-04}}</ref> created by Mike Evans and David Hendleman, and was released to the public in early 2003. Alongside that, [[Roger Wilco (software)]] was used<ref>{{Cite web|title=ProController - Observer's guide|url=http://www.cix.co.uk/~smctighe/getting_started/Procontroller_obsguide.html|website=www.cix.co.uk|access-date=2020-05-03}}</ref> to facilitate voice communications between pilots and ATC, with ATC denoting that voice communications were available with them with the callsign format <code>XXXX_V_TWR</code>, alongside putting their voice server IP and voice room name in their ATIS.<ref>{{Cite web|title=ProController - Observer's guide|url=http://www.cix.co.uk/~smctighe/getting_started/Procontroller_obsguide.html#anchor494596|website=www.cix.co.uk|access-date=2020-05-03}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Useful information|url=http://www.cix.co.uk/~smctighe/Useful_information.html#anchor149155|website=www.cix.co.uk|access-date=2020-05-03}}</ref> Later, however, Roger Wilco was phased out in favour of the Advanced Voice Client, which required VATSIM authentication to prevent any non-VATSIM users from logging into the voice servers.{{Citation needed|date=April 2021|reason=Info sourced from an old member of the VATSIM UK Discord server}}

The ASRC software was retired as an ATC client on April 1, 2021,<ref name=":4" /> due to its not being in active development, which will make it incompatible with fast position updates that will be brought with VATSIM Velocity.[[File:VRC showing LA center.png|thumb|Screenshot of the Virtual Radar Client (VRC) software used by some air traffic controllers on VATSIM|alt=]]

On March 27, 2005, an alternative add-on to FS2002/FS2004 and FSX called FSInn was approved for use on the VATSIM network alongside SquawkBox.<ref>{{Cite web|title=2005, Quarter 1 {{!}} VATSIM.net|url=https://cdn.vatsim.net/meeting-minutes/bog/BOG_2005_Q1.PDF|website=www.vatsim.net|access-date=2022-07-16}}</ref>

===Air Traffic Controller clients===
On April 17, 2006, the Virtual Radar Client (VRC) was approved for use on the VATSIM network.<ref>{{Cite web|title=2006, Quarter 2 {{!}} VATSIM.net|url=https://cdn.vatsim.net/meeting-minutes/bog/BOG_2006_Q2.PDF|website=www.vatsim.net|access-date=2022-07-16}}</ref> Created by Ross Carlson, it was mainly used in the American and Oceanic regions, due to its easy setup, but comes with a lack of customizability. Discontinued as of October 9, 2023, besides the Network Supervisors VRC isn't used by anyone.{{Citation needed|date=May 2020}}

On September 15, 2007, the [[EuroScope]] ATC client was approved for use on the VATSIM network.<ref>{{Cite web|title=v2.9 – EuroScope|url=https://www.euroscope.hu/wp/2007/09/15/v2-9/|last=csernak|date=September 15, 2007 |language=en-US|access-date=2020-05-04}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=VATSIM.net - NOTAMS|url=http://vatsim.net/entrance.html#newsitem1189889177,32353,|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070925003927/http://vatsim.net/entrance.html#newsitem1189889177,32353,|url-status=dead|archive-date=2007-09-25|date=2007-09-25|access-date=2020-05-04}}</ref> Created by Gergely Csernák, the client is reported to be the most used ATC client on VATSIM,<ref name=":2">{{Cite web|title=Software &#124; VATSIM.net|url=https://www.vatsim.net/air-traffic-control/software|access-date=July 29, 2016|archive-date=June 17, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160617095209/https://www.vatsim.net/air-traffic-control/software|url-status=dead}}</ref> due to its custom [[Plug-in (computing)|plugin]] support,<ref>{{Cite web|title=Plug-Ins – EuroScope|url=https://www.euroscope.hu/wp/plug-ins/|language=en-US|access-date=2020-05-04}}</ref> realistic radar screens, and automatic controller coordination. It is designed to integrate with other ATC clients like VRC, [[vSTARS]], and [[vERAM]],<ref>{{Cite web|title=Interaction with VRC/ASRC/vERAM/vSTARS – EuroScope|url=https://www.euroscope.hu/wp/interaction-with-vrc-asrc-veram-vstars/|language=en-US|access-date=2020-05-04}}</ref> however. It is generally used mostly in the Europe, Asia and South American regions.{{Citation needed|date=May 2020}}[[File:EuroScope_at_Dublin.png|thumb|A screenshot of the EuroScope software utilizing the [[TopSky]] plugin used by most air traffic controllers on VATSIM (not vatSys)]]

On January 14, 2012, the vSTARS ATC client was approved for use on the VATSIM network.<ref>{{Cite web|title=2012, Quarter 1 {{!}} VATSIM.net|url=https://cdn.vatsim.net/meeting-minutes/bog/BOG_2012_Q1.PDF|access-date=2022-07-16|website=www.vatsim.net}}</ref> Also created by Ross Carlson, the client aims to replicate the real-world [[Standard Terminal Automation Replacement System|STARS]] system used in many US [[TRACON]] facilities.

On February 27, 2016, the vERAM ATC client was approved for use on the VATSIM network.<ref>{{Cite web|title=vERAM Launched|url=https://forums.vatsim.net/topic/18052-veram-launched/|website=VATSIM Community|date=February 27, 2016 |language=en-US|access-date=2020-05-04}}</ref> Also created by Ross Carlson, the client aims to replicate the real-world [[ERAM]] system used in many US [[Air Route Traffic Control Center|ARTCC]] facilities.

On July 18, 2020, the [[vatSys]] ATC client was approved for use on the VATSIM network.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2020, Quarter 2 {{!}} VATSIM.net |url=https://cdn.vatsim.net/meeting-minutes/bog/BOG_2020_Q2.PDF |access-date=2022-07-16 |website=www.vatsim.net}}</ref> Created by Jake Saw, the client aimed to replicate the real-word [[TAAATS]] system used in Australia,<ref>{{Cite web |title=2020, Quarter 3 {{!}} VATSIM.net |url=https://cdn.vatsim.net/meeting-minutes/bog/BOG_2020_Q3.PDF |access-date=2022-07-16 |website=www.vatsim.net}}</ref> but is now modelled off the [[Eurocat (air traffic control)|Eurocat/TopSky]] systems. It features an advanced profiling system which "means that the look and feel of the client can be adjusted with a simple few clicks".<ref>{{Cite web |last=Saw |first=Jake |title=vatSys |url=https://virtualairtrafficsystem.com/ |access-date=2021-02-23 |website=virtualairtrafficsystem.com |language=en-us}}</ref>

As of October 9, 2023, VRC, vSTARS, and vERAM are being deprecated and replaced by the Virtual National Airspace System (vNAS) suite of products. This software is being actively developed and utilized by all ARTCCs in VATUSA. CRC includes has several modes (STARS, ERAM, ASDE-X and Tower Cab) included within single client and it is highly customizable unlike its predecessor VRC.

'''<big>Pilot Clients</big>'''

VATSIM has 3 approved pilot clients as of April 2025

Swift pilot client is a [[multi-platform]] (Windows, MacOs, Linux) and multi-flight simulator (X-Plane 11, MSFS (FS2020), P3D, FSX, FS9, FlightGear), this pilot client is not as popular among pilots anymore due to its old GUI, nevertheless it is still being actively developed.

vPilot created by Ross Carlson is still being actively developed and used by majority of [[Microsoft Flight Simulator (2020 video game)|MSFS]], [[Prepar3D|P3D]] and [[Microsoft Flight Simulator X|FSX]] users.

xPilot developed by Justin Shannon is a pilot client for [[X-Plane (simulator)|X-Plane]], as of August 2020 this project was moved to be an open-source to help with development<ref>{{Cite web |date=2020-08-01 |title=xPilot is now Open Source |url=https://forums.vatsim.net/topic/28445-xpilot-is-now-open-source/ |access-date=2024-07-18 |website=VATSIM Community |language=en-US}}</ref>

=== Audio for VATSIM===
From its inception, VATSIM employed a system consisting of voice 'rooms', in which, by using custom-written [[TeamSpeak|TeamSpeak 2]] servers as a backbone, each virtual 'frequency' functioned similarly to a [[Voice over IP|VoIP conference call]], and any pilot(s) can transmit on a frequency and talk to each other on any frequency, but it is prohibited to use the frequencies for any non-operational reasons.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Audio for VATSIM launch date announced - Announcements & Important Notices - VATSIM Community|url=https://forums.vatsim.net/topic/24602-audio-for-vatsim-launch-announced/|website=VATSIM Community|date=September 29, 2019 |language=en-US|access-date=2022-07-16}}</ref>[[File:VATSIMLogoComparison.png|alt=New VATSIM logo vs old VATSIM logo|thumb|The new VATSIM logo as of July 23, 2020 (top) compared to the previous logo (bottom)]]

In October 2019, VATSIM had finished a complete overhaul of its voice system and called it Audio for VATSIM, a key feature of which is simulation of the entire [[Very high frequency|VHF radio]] range, thus eliminating the need for voice rooms. The system realistically simulates [[signal-to-noise ratio|signal degradation]], [[audio quality]], [[transceiver]] operation, frequency [[crosstalk|cross-coupling]], and altitude effects.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://vatsim-afv.s3.amazonaws.com/AFV%20User%20Guide.pdf|title=Audio for VATSIM User Guide|last=The AFV Team|access-date=19 October 2019}}{{Dead link|date=October 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref>

===Microsoft partnership===
On July 23, 2020, VATSIM, alongside announcing a complete overhaul of their branding, announced that they had entered into a partnership with Microsoft, to ensure that the desktop PC version of ''[[Microsoft Flight Simulator (2020 video game)|Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020]]'' would be compatible with VATSIM upon launch.<ref>{{Cite web|title=A Big Day for VATSIM!|url=https://forums.vatsim.net/topic/28306-a-big-day-for-vatsim/|access-date=2020-07-27|website=VATSIM Community|date=July 23, 2020 |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Bolding|first=Jonathan|date=2020-07-25|title=Flight Simulator teases a partnership with online flight network VATSIM|url=https://www.pcgamer.com/flight-simulator-teases-a-partnership-with-online-flying-network-vatsim/|access-date=2020-07-27|website=PC Gamer|language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=VATSIM on Twitter: "We're excited to announce that we have partnered with our friends over at @MSFSofficial to ensure day one support of the new Microsoft Flight Simulator on the VATSIM Network!"|url=https://forums.vatsim.net/topic/31773-vatsim-statement-on-xbox-compatibility/|website=VATSIM Forums|date=August 2, 2021 |language=en}}</ref> However, VATSIM does not and likely never will support the [[Xbox]] version of Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020.<ref>{{Cite web|title= VATSIM Statement on Xbox Compatibility|url=https://forums.vatsim.net/topic/28306-a-big-day-for-vatsim/|access-date=2020-07-27|website=VATSIM Community|date=July 23, 2020 |language=en-US}}</ref>

===VATSIM Velocity===
On March 13, 2021, VATSIM announced a closed-beta initiative to test low latency position updates on the network, named VATSIM Velocity.<ref>{{Cite web|title=VATSIM Announces Velocity {{!}} VATSIM.net|url=https://forums.vatsim.net/topic/30949-introducing-vatsim-velocity/|access-date=2022-07-16|website=VATSIM Community|date=March 13, 2021 |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Citation|title=We Feel The Need...| date=March 13, 2021 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=agJl5ebMvLE|language=en|access-date=2021-03-13}}</ref> With this update, position updates increased from 0.2&nbsp;Hz (5 seconds) to 5&nbsp;Hz (0.2 seconds) within a 10-mile range.

The SquawkBox and FSInn pilot clients were retired for use on the network on April 1, 2021,<ref name=":4">{{Cite web|title=Preparing for VATSIM Velocity - Retirement of Legacy Clients {{!}} VATSIM.net|url=https://forums.vatsim.net/topic/30959-preparing-for-vatsim-velocity-retirement-of-legacy-clients/|access-date=2022-07-16|website=VATSIM Community|date=March 14, 2021 |language=en-US}}</ref> due to them not being in active development,<ref name=":24">{{Cite web|last=DeYoung|first=Joel|title=SquawkBox News Blog|url=http://squawkbox.ca/news|access-date=2021-02-13|website=squawkbox.ca}}</ref> which made them incompatible with the fast position updates that were brought with VATSIM Velocity.

VATSIM announced that the long-awaited update would be released on January 31, 2022, at 22:00 UTC.<ref>{{Cite web|title=VATSIM Announces Velocity Release Date and Rollout Plan|url=https://forums.vatsim.net/topic/32619-vatsim-announces-velocity-release-date-and-rollout-plan/|access-date=2022-07-16|website=VATSIM Community|date=January 29, 2022 |language=en-US}}</ref> Preparations for its launch included major updates to pilot clients, as well as the retirement of Squawkbox, which became incompatible with the network. However, Velocity had no effect on the functionality of controller clients.

===VATSIM Inc.===
On January 16, 2023, VATSIM announced the creation of a new [[501(c)(3)]] non-profit organization, VATSIM Inc. and said it would start accepting donations.<ref name="FSelite1">{{cite web |url=https://fselite.net/content/vatsim-announce-vatsim-inc-non-profit-corporation/ |title=VATSIM Announce VATSIM Inc. Non-Profit corporation |author=<!--Not stated--> |date= 17 January 2023 |website=FSElite |publisher= |access-date= 17 January 2023 |quote=}}</ref> VATSIM also stated that it would be transferring ownership to a new board of directors.<ref name="VATSIMPress">{{cite web |url=https://forums.vatsim.net/topic/33976-announcement-creation-of-vatsim-inc-non-profit/ |title=Announcement: Creation of VATSIM Inc. Non-Profit |author=<!--Not stated--> |date= 16 January 2023 |website= VATSIM Forums |publisher= |access-date= 17 January 2023 |quote=}}</ref>

==Reception==
Considered the largest online flight simulation network in the world,<ref name="fsxbook1" /> VATSIM has attracted mainstream media attention.<ref name="wsj1" /><ref name="cnet1" /><ref name="abc1" /><ref name="pcgamer1">
{{cite journal
  |title= Gaming News
  |journal= [[PC Gamer]]
  |volume= 15
  |issue= 4–13
  |publisher= GP Publications 
  |year= 2008
  |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=e-onAQAAIAAJ&q=VATSIM
  |access-date= March 28, 2011
}}</ref> Commentators have praised VATSIM for its realism and quality,<ref name="book7">
{{cite book
  | last = Kimbrough
  | first = Steven O.
  |author2=D. J. Wu
   | title = Formal Modelling In Electronic Commerce
  | publisher = Birkhäuser
  | year = 2004
  | quote = There now exists a vibrant community organized around VATSIM, as well as remarkably complex and robust software supporting these activities.
  | url = https://books.google.com/books?id=rR2oEoun0gkC
  | isbn = 3-540-21431-3
  | page = 17
}}
</ref> describing the network as giving flight simulation an interest and depth it would otherwise lack<ref name="book6">{{cite book
  | last = Maharg
  | first = Paul
  | title = Transforming legal education: learning and teaching the law in the early twenty-first century
  | publisher = Ashgate Publishing, Ltd.
  | year = 2007
  | url = https://books.google.com/books?id=8-zmLbJ8ODoC&q=VATSIM&pg=PA165
  | isbn = 978-0-7546-4970-0
  | page = 346
}}</ref> and lauding its friendly atmosphere.<ref name="pcgamer1" /><ref name="airspace1">
{{cite news
  | last = Regis
  | first = Ed
  | title = Welcome to Cyberairspace
  | publisher = [[Air & Space Magazine]]
  | date = January 1, 2009
  | url = https://www.smithsonianmag.com/air-space-magazine/welcome-to-cyberairspace-96876957
  | access-date = December 4, 2022}}
</ref>

Coverage, although mostly positive, has focused on what is perceived to be the peculiar nature of a hobby so complex that it can closely approximate work and cost thousands of dollars.<ref name="abc1" /><ref name="smh1">
{{cite news
  | last = Galvin
  | first = Nick
  | title = Cockpit capers
  | newspaper = [[Sydney Morning Herald]]
  | date = June 6, 2006
  | url = http://www.smh.com.au/news/technology/cockpit-capers/2006/05/03/1146335804694.html
  | access-date = January 14, 2009}}
</ref> The experience has been described as more strict, for both air traffic controllers and pilots, than some participants might like.<ref name="flying1" />

==Membership and training==
VATSIM has over 140,000 registered users as of July 2022.<ref>{{Cite web|title=About VATSIM?|url=https://vatsim.net/docs/about/about-vatsim|access-date=2022-07-16|website=www.vatsim.net|language=en-US}}</ref> Joining is free, and there are no usage fees associated with connecting to the network.<ref>{{cite news
  | last = Orr
  | first = Josh
  | title = Teen earns wings for his first solo flight
  | publisher = Sarasota Herald Tribune
  | date = May 2, 2006
  | url = http://www.accessmylibrary.com/coms2/summary_0286-15082102_ITM
  | access-date = July 14, 2008
  | archive-date = January 11, 2009
  | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090111234032/http://www.accessmylibrary.com/coms2/summary_0286-15082102_ITM
  | url-status = dead
  }}</ref>

Pilots must successfully complete a new member orientation course, including a simple exam that helps reinforce the knowledge ò out basic piloting skills and the rules of the network as of January 22, 2025.<ref name=":0" />  They may also undertake optional training to learn how to fly certain procedures on the network. Pilots may also transfer their real world license into a VATSIM rating as many real world pilots fly on the VATSIM network.

The current pilot ratings are:
* P0 - Basic VATSIM User (awarded after completion of the New User Orientation Program since September 1, 2020)
* P1 - Private Pilot License (PPL)
* P2 - Instrument Rating (IR)
* P3 - Commercial Multi-Engine Licence (CMEL)
* P4 - Airline Transport License (ATPL)
Pilots are able to file their own flight plans either through their flight plan dialog in their pilot client or "pre-filing" by using the myVATSIM ICAO flight planning form, also used by flight planning sites and flight tracking tools such as projectFLY, SimBrief, SimToolkitPro, and Volanta<!-- A Volanta page is in the works. Will make this linked to it when it is published. -->.
[[File:MyVATSIM_flight_plan_filing_form.png|thumb|Pilots can pre-file an [[Flight planning|ICAO flight plan]] before connecting to the network using the myVATSIM portal.]]
Air Traffic Controllers are required to undertake mandatory training before they are permitted to direct traffic.<ref name=":7">{{Cite web|title=Becoming a Controller|url=https://vatsim.net/docs/basics/becoming-a-controller|website=www.vatsim.net|access-date=2022-07-16}}</ref><ref name="wsj1" /><ref>{{cite magazine
  | last = Margulius
  | first = David
  | title = Tech jobs take stress to whole new levels
  | quote = ...is so realistic that some commercial airlines are starting to use it to train [their] pilots...
  | magazine = InfoWorld
  | date = May 26, 2006
  | url = http://www.news.com/Into-the-wild-blue-virtual-yonder/2100-1043_3-6144347.html
  | archive-url = https://archive.today/20130104052722/http://www.news.com/Into-the-wild-blue-virtual-yonder/2100-1043_3-6144347.html
  | url-status = dead
  | archive-date = January 4, 2013
  | access-date = April 29, 2008
  }}</ref> Global Controller Administration Policy<ref>{{Cite web |title=Global Ratings Policy |url=https://vatsim.net/docs/policy/global-controller-administration-policy |access-date=2022-07-16 |website=www.vatsim.net}}</ref> defines the requirements for each ATC rating, preceding local division restrictions. The ratings are as follows:
* S1 - Tower Trainee - no particular competencies, validated to control some aerodrome positions (defined locally)<ref name=":7" />
* S2 - Tower Controller - validated to control Delivery (DEL), Ground (GND) and Tower (TWR) facilities except procedural tower (subject to training)
* S3 - TMA Controller - validated to control all facilities up to Approach (APP/DEP) level
* C1 - Enroute Controller - validated to control all available facilities, including Center (CTR)
* C3 - Senior Controller - a special rating awarded to users at the discretion of their local region/division for seniority/recognition, giving unrestricted access to all ATC in their division
* I1 - Instructor - validated to train and instruct all virtual Air Traffic Controllers, they have the ability to control the same positions as an enroute controller
* I3 - Senior Instructor - a special rating awarded to instructors at the discretion of their local region/division for seniority/recognition, it is also used for Chief Instructors within a region/division <ref>{{Cite web|title=Code of regulations section G|url=https://vatsim.net/docs/policy/code-of-regulations|website=www.vatsim.net|access-date=2023-04-27}}</ref>

[[File:Vatsim opensky1.gif|thumb|During the 2002 Operation OpenSky event, total online members reached 798 concurrent connections. The "dots" in the screenshot represent aircraft with their routes shown as lines.|alt=]]

==Events==
The network creates and sponsors regular events to encourage interaction between pilots and controllers, during which traffic can approximate real-life levels.<ref name="airspace1" /><ref>{{Cite web |title=Events – Hong Kong vACC |url=https://hkvacc.org/events/ |access-date=2023-06-19 |language=en-US}}</ref>

===Worldflight===
Worldflight Australia is an annual virtual round-the-world charity event that has been run continuously since 2001, where 11 teams from different countries<ref>{{Cite web|title=Worldflight {{!}} VATSIM Charity Event|url=https://www.worldflight.com.au/|website=www.worldflight.com.au|access-date=2020-05-01}}</ref> in their own fixed-base aircraft simulators fly to over 40 destinations around the world on VATSIM to raise money for the Australian [[Royal Flying Doctor Service]].<ref>{{cite web|work=Worldflight Australia Website|title=Worldflight Australia|url=http://www.worldflight.com.au/worldflight/whatisit.php|access-date=January 14, 2009|archive-date=February 1, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090201145553/http://www.worldflight.com.au/worldflight/whatisit.php|url-status=dead}}</ref> VATSIM air traffic controllers provide service throughout this event. In 2006, fifteen enthusiasts conducted a 130-hour flight in a full-sized [[Boeing 747-400]] simulator, for which [[Qantas]] provided food.<ref name="smh1" />

===Cross the Pond===
[[File:Ifsc vatsim1.jpg|thumb|right|The VATSIM stand at the International Flight Simulator Conference in Blackpool, July 2005]]

Cross the Pond is a biannual event during which pilots complete transatlantic flights across "[[Atlantic Ocean|The Pond]]" between Europe and Northern America. The event alternates between westbound and eastbound every 6 months. Certain airports are selected a few months prior for which pilots can book slots to fly for,<ref>{{Cite tweet|user=vatsim|number=1240324598413041667|title=Cross The Pond is closing in with lighting speed, and we are so excited! We are pleased to announce that booking for this year's biggest event will open March 21st at 1200z! As usual bookings open in bulks, details about specific airports below. https://ctp.vatsim.net/ pic.twitter.com/vElo4Xwa6o|access-date=2022-07-16}}</ref> and VATSIM air traffic controllers provide full service for each of these airports throughout the event. The event is meticulously planned and coordinated by all major VATSIM staff members,<ref>{{Cite tweet|user=vatsimctp|number=1246181034523332613|title=Guess what time it is?pic.twitter.com/uF1aYynrd9n|access-date=2022-07-16}}</ref> to make sure that pilots enjoy their service. During the Autumn 2024 event, VATSIM surpassed its record of most unique connections to the network with 3,208, also making it the biggest online flight simulation network to date.<ref>{{Cite tweet|user=vatsim|number=1850220982125961722|title=We've broken records on VATSIM for the second time this year! With 3208 unique connections, our global community has reached new levels on VATSIM during the last Cross the Pond event. Thanks to each and every member who made this milestone possible! https://twitter.com/vatsim/status/1850220982125961722|access-date=2024-11-19}}</ref> The record was once again broken during the subsequent Spring 2025 event, with 3238 unique connections to the network.

===Regional events===
In addition to the global/international events that VATSIM sponsors and advertises, regional events can be found daily throughout the network. These events can range from small in size, including only a few airports or facilities, to very large in size, spanning across multiple regions and facilities. Although they don't typically attract record-breaking traffic, these events have been known to draw enough pilots to simulate, (and often surpass) real-world operations at the selected facilities.

==See also==
{{Portal|Aviation}}
*[[Virtual airline (hobby)|Virtual airline]]
*[[Flight simulator]]
*[[Massively multiplayer online game]]
*[[Air Traffic Control]]
*[[International Virtual Aviation Organisation]]
*[[FlightSimCon]]

==References==
{{Reflist|2}}

==External links==
{{Prone to spam|date=July 2013}}
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*{{Official website|https://www.vatsim.net}} – Includes links to region and division-specific websites.
*[https://map.vatsim.net/ SimAware] – Official live flight tracking map & statistics for VATSIM traffic.
*[https://www1.metacraft.com/VATSpy/ VAT-Spy] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210125014613/http://www1.metacraft.com/VATSpy/ |date=January 25, 2021 }} – A widely used flight tracking tool & statistic viewer for VATSIM. Data can be updated [https://github.com/vatsimnetwork/vatspy-data-project/ here.]
*[https://www.vattastic.com/ VATTASTIC] – An unofficial flight tracking map for VATSIM traffic with statistics.
*[https://www.vataware.com vataware] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210811190114/https://vataware.com/ |date=August 11, 2021 }} – Detailed statistics & live flight tracking for VATSIM traffic.
*[https://www.worldflightgroup.com Worldflight Group] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220526020554/http://www.worldflightgroup.com/ |date=May 26, 2022 }} – Worldflight Group official website.

[[Category:Aviation websites]]
[[Category:Microsoft Flight Simulator add-ons]]
[[Category:Mitre Corporation]]
[[Category:Flight simulation video games]]