Flying Online - VATSIM

IMPORTANT: Before connecting to the VATSIM network, please read the Code of Conduct

This tutorial will take you through

Software installation
Connecting to VATSIM
IFR procedures and protocol
VFR procedures and protocol

For an overview of the software and tools needed for online work, check our Tools page. I will assume you already have FSUIPC installed. If not, follow the directions on the tools page after you install squawkbox. Squawbox will install FSUIPC for you, but it will probably be an older version. You will also find ServInfo and/or Whazzup useful to see who is currently online. Install those also following the directions on the tools page.

Before we install the software, let's go ahead and register with VATSIM. You will receive a Pilot ID (PID) and password and will need this to logon to the network. Check the VATSIM main page and click the "Join Now" button. Read the "terms and conditions" then click through to fill out the registration form. Your password will be e-mailed to immediately and your ID will be given to you on the web page. Keep these in a safe place where you can find them. If you should happen to lose them or otherwise need assistance, check Lost password.