By Fritz Weinrebe on 05 December 2007

I recently discovered something that really blew my mind away. It's called the Virtual Aviation Traffic Simulation Network (VATSim).  I joined the network and assigned myself to the South African wing called VATSim South African Division (VATSAF).

After downloading the software for multiplayer connections and reading the required materials, I soon discovered that that these networks are maintained by very dedicated people that loves the hobby of flight simulation (and air traffic control simulation).

The concept is very simple.  You start up Flight Simulator.  Open the multiplayer software (Choice of 2 free applications). File a flight plan. If an air traffic controller is available for the airport you are starting at, follow the rules of radio telephony.  Joining these network requires you to follow the rules and obey th ... Read More »