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The Virtual Air Traffic Simulation Network, better known as '''VATSIM''', is a Non-profit Organization operating a dedicated, worldwide, Internet-based Flight-simulation network. OVERVIEW VATSIM is a custom-designed network, accessible from the Internet , to which commercial flight-simulation programs can connect via special Plug-in s. A number of custom-written ATC simulation programs can also connect to VATSIM. Both the plug-ins and the ATC simulation programs are free, but users must purchase their own copies of supported flight-simulation programs, such as Microsoft Flight Simulator or X-Plane . Users must also provide their own access to the Internet, through which the VATSIM network is accessed. Users must join the organization as members, but membership is free. Members must be at least 13 years old. There are no usage fees for connection to the VATSIM network. VATSIM users can interact on the network in the roles of either virtual Pilots or virtual Air Traffic Controller s, using their flight-simulation programs (with plug-ins) and/or custom 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 private and commercial pilots looking to enhance their skills. El Air and VATIL cooperation , VATSIM Israel The network is especially valued for IFR practice and practice interacting with air traffic controllers. Pilots "fly" under ATC control in real time with real-world weather conditions (a real-time weather feature is integrated into the network). The simulation is close enough to real life that real-world documentation (aeronautical charts, procedures, regulations, etc.) can be used for flying on the network. A salient feature of VATSIM is its heavy emphasis on simulation as opposed to gaming. The network does not provide traditional gaming objectives, missions, points, or rewards, and instead concentrates on flight simulation alone, with accurate procedures and air traffic control that mimic real-world practices as closely as technically possible. Things that are impossible or prohibited in real life (supersonic aerobatics over populated areas, etc.) are not permitted on VATSIM, either. There are, however, various virtual airlines and other organizations within VATSIM that simulate the operation of commercial airlines, military air forces, or other flight-related activities, and they operate with considerable autonomy, as long as they respect the network's basic rules of simulation. For example, virtual airlines handle their own operational management, pilot recruiting and training, flight scheduling, and so on, and transport virtual passengers and payloads, but their pilots and aircraft must obey standard air regulations and procedures while in flight, just as any other users of the network must. VATSIM Code of Conduct , VATSIM 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 , the International Virtual Aviation Organization , better known as IVAO, split away from SATCO due to disagreements in the group. VATSIM was officially formed in July of 2001, effectively replacing SATCO. 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 VAT-UK in the United Kingdom or VATUSA in the United States ). Divisions are divided into Flight Information Regions or ARTCC s in the United States . Many controllers on VATSIM provide virtual air traffic control services for areas in which they live. 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 Plugin s (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 VATSIM-specific applications are free of charge, but Closed Source . MEMBERSHIP AND TRAINING As of June 2007 , the network has had over 123,000 members registered. During peak periods, more than 1,500 controllers and pilots may be connected to the network. New members can connect as pilots immediately after joining, but should understand the basics of aviation and be able to control their aircraft in the virtual flight space before flying online, with a level of skill and knowledge comparable to that of a student pilot in the real world. A training program for pilots is recommended, but not mandatory. In contrast, members must undergo mandatory training before they are allowed to provide air traffic control on the network. A Ranking system for controllers ensures that newcomers will not take demanding positions for which they have not yet received training. Connecting as an ATC observer requires no special training, but does not allow a member to provide ATC services. Controller ratings are: Student (S1), Senior Student (S3), Controller (C1), Senior Controller (C3), Instructor (I1) and Senior Instructor (I3). Non controller ratings are: Observer (OBS), Supervisor (SUP) and Administrator (ADM). After passing a basic theory test, the Observer rated member advances to S1. At this rating, the student can control airfield tower positions subject to local restrictions. A practical exam must be passed on the tower of their choice in order to advance to S3. An S3 is able to control an approach position subject to local restrictions. After another practical exam, the S3 advances to C1 etc. The C1 is able to control TMA positions in the local FIR. ADMINISTRATION VATSIM is governed by a self-appointing board of governors and an executive committee. The current ( 2007 ) president of VATSIM is Richard Jenkins. Administration and day-to-day operations are entirely supported by volunteers, donations, and sponsorship, and the organization is dedicated to keeping actual membership and participation in virtual aviation on the network free of charge. SEE ALSO REFERENCES
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