[Logitech Extreme 3D Pro joystick pulling aircraft to left]

Hey mate,

Can you provide info on the methods you have tried, so we can most appropriately help you here.

[04DEC22 | Cross the Ditch 23: Summer 2022]

December brings summer weather to the South Pacific, complete with scorching sun, soaring temperatures, and more than a few thunderstorms.

For VATSIM's pilots and controllers the answer is obvious: it's time to once again take to the virtual skies and Cross the Ditch!

 

What's it all about?

For twenty hours this December, the skies over the Tasman Sea between Australia and New Zealand will be filled with aircraft all on a mission to Cross the Ditch.

An example of that typical down-under understatement, this "ditch" is over 1100nm wide. The flight routes all range from two and a half to three and a half hours flight time.

Throughout the event, Oceania's two divisions – VATNZ and VATPAC – will be providing full gate-to-gate ATC coverage, in the Southern Hemisphere's premiere oceanic event.

This is a great opportunity to experience Oceanic flying without the need to commit to an eight-hour flight!

If you're new to Oceanic Flying, our reporting tool makes taking part a breeze.

 

Event Times

This twenty hour event is timed to allow pilots from all over the world to join the fun:

• UTC: Saturday 3rd December 2022 17:00 - Sunday 4th December 2022 13:00
• AEDT: Sunday 4th December 2022 04:00 - Monday 5th December 2022 00:00
• NZDT: Sunday 4th December 2022 06:00 - Monday 5th December 2022 02:00

 

Waves

This season's event is organised in waves. Each airport will have a three-to-four-and-a-half hour departure window, during which time flights will be able to leave for the next destination. As the window closes, the departure window will open at the next destination.

Given each of the flights is 3 - 4.5hrs in length, the previous wave's flights will be arriving at the same airport as the next wave departs, maximising the amount of traffic at each airport.

NOTE: in order to ensure that you have ATC coverage throughout your flight, you MUST fly the wave route that is active at the time of your departure.

The individual routes are designed to ensure as much opposing traffic enroute as possible.

Each flight passes from one Oceania division to the other, and the result is six mini-flyins over the course of twenty hours!

 

The Waves for Cross the Ditch 23: Summer 2022 are:

Wave	Flight	Departure Window
		UTC	AEDT	NZDT
1	Wellington, New Zealand (NZWN) to Brisbane, Australia (YBBN)	1700-2000	0400-0700	0600-0900
2	Brisbane, Australia (YBBN) to Dunedin, New Zealand (NZDN)	2000-2330	0700-1030	0900-1230
2a	Brisbane, Australia (YBBN) to Christchurch, New Zealand (NZCH) (Large Aircraft Alternate)	2000-2330	0700-1030	0900-1230
3	Dunedin, New Zealand (NZDN) to Canberra, Australia (YSCB)	2330-0300	1030-1400	1230-1600
3a	Christchurch, New Zealand (NZCH) to Canberra, Australia (YSCB) (Large Aircraft Alternate)	2330-0300	1030-1400	1230-1600
4	Canberra, Australia (YSCB) to Christchurch, New Zealand (NZCH)	0230-0630	1330-1730	1530-1930
5	Christchurch, New Zealand (NZCH) to Newcastle, Australia (YWLM)	0530-0930	1630-2030	1830-2230

 

Calling all Pilots and Controllers

Flight plans are available from the Flight Plans section.

Book your flights now from the Flight Bookings page. Bookings made on this site help us plan for the event, and will also show up in vroute.

Controllers wanting to get in on the action can also apply now at the event's ATC Applications page.

 

[NOTAM 05/06NOV22: Positions Reserved For WorldFlight Departure]

NOTAM: Positions Reserved for WorldFlight Departure

1 INTRODUCTION
The following positions are reserved under section 4.1 of the VATPAC Controller Positions and Ratings Policy. This NOTAM is the reservation of the positions noted in 2 RESERVED POSITIONS for the purpose of WorldFlight Departure.

2 RESERVED POSITIONS
The following positions are reserved from 2000z 05NOV22-0700z 06NOV22.

• SY_DEL
• SY-C_DEL
• SY-C_GND
• SY_GND
• SY-E_GND
• SY_TWR
• SY-E_TWR
• SY_APP
• SY_DEP
• SY-S_DEP
•  
• BN-ARL_CTR*
• BN-MLD_CTR
• BN-MNN_CTR
• BN-INL_CTR*
• BN-GOL_CTR
•  
• BN_DEL
• BN-C_DEL
• BN_GND
• BN-N_GND
• BN-S_GND
• BN_TWR
• BN-W_TWR
• BN_APP
• BN-S_APP
• BN_DEP
• BN-S_DEP
•  
• BN-KPL_CTR
• BN-NSA_CTR
• BN-SWY_CTR
• BN-KEN_CTR*
• BN-ARA_CTR
• AYPM_CTR*
•  
• AYPY_DEL
• AYPY_GND
• AYPY_TWR
• AYPY_APP
• AYPY_DEP
•  
• AYPY-N_CTR
• AYPY-W_CTR
• AYPY-A_CTR

3 AUTHORITY
This NOTAM Is under the authority of the following:

• Joshua M - Director of Events ([email protected])

4 EVENT CONTACT
The nominated Event Coordinator(s) for this event are:

• Joshua M - Director of Events ([email protected])
• Chris G - Events Manager ([email protected])

Event Coordinators will be available for contact on the VATPAC Discord, using the @eventcoordinator role. They can also be contacted via PM over the VATSIM network. They may also be logged onto the network as VATPAC35. Additional coordinators may be available on the day.

5 ROSTER
The roster for WorldFlight can be viewed here.
If you have any questions about the roster, or with to have it amended, please email [email protected], or make contact with one of Event Coordinators in the VATPAC Discord Server.
If you find yourself free during the event, and wish to offer your ATC services, please contact one of the Event Coordinators and we will find a position for you!

6 CANCELLATION
This NOTAM will self-cancel at 0700z on the 06NOV22.

[Major Events Survey for 2023]

This survey has now closed.

Thank you to everyone who responded. We look forward to sharing our 2023 Events plan with you in the coming weeks!

[06NOV22 | WorldFlight Departure]

 

The pilot & Controller Briefings have been released for WF2022 Departure & Arrival Legs. They can be accessed via the below.

Controller Briefing Access Link (AVAILABLE TO VIEW)

Pilot Briefing Access Link (AVAILABLE TO VIEW)

Note: Only access this briefing via the above link. Updates may be made to this document at any time during WorldFlight. It is your responsibility to ensure you have the most updated edition of this briefing.

 

Here is to a very, very successful WorldFlight 2022!

[12NOV22 | WorldFlight Arrival]

 

The pilot & Controller Briefings have been released for WF2022 Departure & Arrival Legs. They can be accessed via the below.

Controller Briefing Access Link (AVAILABLE TO VIEW)

Pilot Briefing Access Link (AVAILABLE TO VIEW)

Note: Only access this briefing via the above link. Updates may be made to this document at any time during WorldFlight. It is your responsibility to ensure you have the most updated edition of this briefing.

 

Here is to a very, very successful WorldFlight 2022!

[Visiting WorldFlight HQ]

Anyone who would like to visit Worldflight HQ during Worldflight, please send an email to [email protected] and let us know approximately when you would like to visit. After a few years of being closed to visitors due to the pandemic, we are expecting a large volume of visitors this year so please don't simply show up unannounced.

The QFA25 full motion 747-400 simulator is located in Chipping Norton, a short distance from Bankstown Airport. Free parking is available.

Our traditional rules are as follows:

• We do not charge to visit. However, it is customary to make a small contribution either directly to the virtual RFDS donation tin before you arrive, accessible here: https://worldflight-2022.raisely.com/t/qfa25, or to one of the Worldflight staff onsite.
• Minimum age is 13 and you are welcome to bring an adult with you. Several Worldflight staff have current WWC/WWVP checks. Under 18's must unfortunately leave HQ by 5pm due to issues surrounding insurance.
• Complimentary soft drinks, juice, and water will be available.
• If you would like to book the jumpseat in the simulator for one of the legs, please include the request in your email. We ask for a $50 donation to the RFDS tin for these legs. Book early as they sell out FAST. Jumpseat legs are only available for legs between 1000-1700 AEDT daily.

 

Here is to yet another amazing WF!

[Newbie Night Discussions]

Looks Good. Chris and I will get back to you with the destinations for the FW events once we have had those discussions mid next month.

[10DEC22 | Newbie Night - Cairns & Port Moresby]

On 10/18/2022 at 10:27 AM, David B - 1487670 said:

After ROP puts it pretty much right on Christmas. If 10 December is an issue, might be better to hold off until January when it's usually pretty quiet.

If you could hold it off until the second weekend of January, that would be great

[10DEC22 | Newbie Night - Cairns & Port Moresby]

Can we push this till after Real Ops please @David B - 1487670? Would like to focus on the ristering of the two major events before we throw a newbie night into the mix.

Event looks good otherwise.

[12NOV22 | WorldFlight Arrival]

Guess what? It's time to welcome them back home!

VATPAC, in collaboration with WorldFlight HQ, invites members across the whole world to join the final few legs in Australian Airspace of WorldFlight 2022.

The WorldFlight Teams departed Sydney on the 6th of November at 8AM AEDT / 7AM AEST (2100z) and are arriving a week later on the 12th of November at 8:55PM AEDT / 7:55PM AEST (0935z). With full ATC along the way, all VATSIM members are invited along to join in from home!

 

What is WorldFlight?

WorldFlight is an annual event in which 14 full-sized simulators, are flown in unison for a week, 24 hours a day, circumnavigating the world! The event tests both the crews and the simulators to the extreme and is all for the purpose of raising money for each of the individual sims charities of choice.

For more information on WorldFlight or to donate, please visit the WorldFlight Australia website. 

 

Pilot & Controller Information:

Routes:
Please find below route for WorldFlight 2022’s arrival in to Australia. Please also note the departure times for each leg, as ATC will only be provided around these times.

NCRG - NFFN: MIBOR G593 PAGRA ANRIK BEDOK (Departing 1540Z)

NFFN - NZAA: AGTOS A578 KALAG (Departing 2010Z)

NZAA - NZCH: KARRL H384 NP H252 NS Y288 PEAKS (Deparing 0010Z)

NZCH - YMML: KABIN L508 MILLA P753 WAREN (Departing 0230Z)

YMML - YSSY: DOSEL Y59 RIVET (Departing 0725Z)

ATC is being provided by VATPAC for NFFN, YMML and YSSY. VATNZ will be providing ATC into NCRG, NZAA and NZCH within their airspace. We have included all routes above for easy understanding of the final routes for WorldFlight.

 

Pilot Briefing:
VATPAC will be providing additional information about each leg for pilots which will be released in a Pilot Briefing. This document will contain details regarding SID/STAR Assignment, fuel requirements and other operationally significant information. This document will include the legs for both the departure, and arrival legs to allow pilots to also prepare for their final few legs.

This document will be released on the 1st of November, and will be published on the VATPAC Forums, Discord, and all Social Media platforms.

Pilot Briefing Access Link (AVAILABLE TO VIEW)

Note: Only access this briefing via the above link. Updates may be made to this document at any time during WorldFlight. It is your responsibility to ensure you have the most updated edition of this briefing.

 

Controller Briefing:
A controller orientated briefing will be created for WorldFlight 2022 to ensure maximum operational capacity between controlling positions is always maintained. This document will include the information for both the departure, and arrival legs.

This document will be released on the 1st of November, and will be published on the VATPAC Forums, Discord, and all Social Media platforms.

Controller Briefing Access Link (AVAILABLE TO VIEW)

Note: Only access this briefing via the above link. Updates may be made to this document at any time during WorldFlight. It is your responsibility to ensure you have the most updated edition of this briefing.

 

ATC Applications:

VATPAC will be staffing the following positions during WorldFlight Arrival 2022. VATPAC provides ATC Services in two different blocks, so we ask you ensure you are selecting a time where ATC will be rostered.

Note: Changes will be made depending on controller applications and operational requirements. This list will NOT be updated or maintained.

Applications for the arrival leg of WorldFlight can be found below:

https://events.vatpac.org/worldflight-arrival

 

Scenery:

NFFN - Nadi:
Payware - ORBX (P3D / FSX)

YMML - Melbourne:
Payware - ORBX (P3D / FSX)
Freeware - Robert Catehrall (P3D / FSX)
Freeware - Jan Vogel (X-Plane)

YSSY - Sydney:
Payware - FlyTampa v2 (FSX/P3D)
Payware – FlyTampa (MSFS)
Payware - TaiModels (X-Plane 11)
Freeware - AVSIM (FSX/P3D)

[06NOV22 | WorldFlight Departure]

Guess what? It's that time of year again!!!

VATPAC, in collaboration with WorldFlight HQ, invites members across the whole world to join the departing legs in Australian Airspace for WorldFlight 2022.

The WorldFlight Teams depart Sydney on the 6th of November at 8AM AEDT / 7AM AEST (2100z) and arrive a week later on the 12th of November at 8:55PM AEDT / 7:55PM AEST (0935z). With full ATC along the way, all VATSIM members are invited along to join in from home. 

 

What is WorldFlight?

WorldFlight is an annual event in which 10 full-sized simulators, are flown in unison for a week, 24 hours a day, circumnavigating the world! The event tests both the crews and the simulators to the extreme and is all for the purpose of raising money for each of the individual sims charities of choice.

For more information on WorldFlight or to donate, please visit the WorldFlight Australia website. 

 

Pilot & Controller Information:

Routes:
Please find below route for WorldFlight 2022’s departure out of Australia. Please also note the departure times for each leg, as ATC will only be provided around these times.

YSSY - YBBN: ENTRA Y245 BANDA H185 LAGOB (Depart 2100Z)

YBBN - AYPY: BIXAD Q67 GUDSO Q24 KELPI B220 VIPAM LOTGU (Depart 2340Z)

AYPY - WAJJ: STARF H536 LUMMI VANKA (Depart 0350Z)

 

Pilot Briefing:
VATPAC will be providing additional information about each leg for pilots which will be released in a Pilot Briefing. This document will contain details regarding SID/STAR Assignment, fuel requirements and other operationally significant information. This document will include the legs for both the departure, and arrival legs to allow pilots to also prepare for their final few legs.

This document will be released on the 1st of November, and will be published on the VATPAC Forums, Discord, and all Social Media platforms.

Pilot Briefing Access Link (AVAILABLE TO VIEW)

Note: Only access this briefing via the above link. Updates may be made to this document at any time during WorldFlight. It is your responsibility to ensure you have the most updated edition of this briefing.

 

Controller Briefing:
A controller orientated briefing will be created for WorldFlight 2022 to ensure maximum operational capacity between controlling positions is always maintained. This document will include the information for both the departure, and arrival legs.

This document will be released on the 1st of November, and will be published on the VATPAC Forums, Discord, and all Social Media platforms.

Controller Briefing Access Link (AVAILABLE TO VIEW)

Note: Only access this briefing via the above link. Updates may be made to this document at any time during WorldFlight. It is your responsibility to ensure you have the most updated edition of this briefing.

 

ATC Applications:

VATPAC will be staffing the following positions during WorldFlight Departure 2022

Note: Changes will be made depending on controller applications and operational requirements. This list will NOT be updated or maintained.

Applications for the departure leg of WorldFlight can be found below:

https://events.vatpac.org/worldflight-departure

 

Scenery:

YSSY - Sydney:
Payware - FlyTampa v2 (FSX/P3D)
Payware – FlyTampa (MSFS)
Payware - TaiModels (X-Plane 11)
Freeware - AVSIM (FSX/P3D)

YBBN - Brisbane:
Payware - ORBX (P3D v4.5+)
Payware - ORBX (MSFS)
Payware - ORBX (XPlane)
Freeware - Ray Smith (P3D/FSX)
Freeware - CDG (X-Plane)

AYPY - Port Moresby
Payware - ORBX (FSX/P3D)
Freeware - AVSIM (FSX)
Freeware - xPlane

[15OCT22 | VATUSA FNO Downunder]

VATUSA in partnership with VATPAC invites you to Friday Night Ops: Downunder! Join us as we light up the skies between Sydney, Melbourne & Brisbane on Friday the 14th of October (Saturday morning Downunder).

Event Details:

Friday Night Ops is a weekly event run by VATUSA; normally visiting places all around the United States. This time around, Friday Night Ops are coming to the land downunder within the famous 'J-Curve'.

Flight Planning:

In Australia, flight plans are filed in the ICAO format. SIDs & STARs are not included in the filed flight plan. This will be provided by ATC on contact with clearance delivery (for departures) and with the Centre controller prior to top of descent.

Pre-Departure Clearances (PDCs) are used in Australia. Pilots are required to readback PDCs to to the delivery controller. However, when reading back the PDC you do not need to read back everything. Just the SQUAWK, DEPARTURE PROCEDURE, RUNWAY and BAY.

[PILOT] "Melbourne Delivery, Qantas 436 with PDC readback." 
[ML_DEL] "Qantas 436 g'day Melbourne Delivery, go ahead with PDC readback"
[PILOT] "Qantas 436 is cleared to Sydney, DOSEL1 departure, runway 27, squawk 4457; bay C3"
[ML_DEL] "Qantas 436" or "Qantas 436 contact ground 121.7 for push"

If you do not receive a PDC, you can request airways clearance on VHF with the Delivery controller. However, you are required to readback the entire clearance by voice.

[PILOT] "Brisbane Delivery, Qantas 535" 
[BN_DEL] "Qantas 535 g'day Melbourne Delivery, go ahead"
[PILOT] "Qantas 535 request clearance"
[BN_DEL] "Qantas 535, cleared to Sydney via SANEG flight planned route. SANEG 1 departure runway 01R. Climb via SID 6000(ft). Squawk 4457 departures 133.45"
[PILOT]  "Cleared to Sydney via SANEG flight planned route. SANEG 1 departure runway 01R. Climb via SID 6000(ft). Squawk 4457 departures 133.45, bay 18 Qantas 535."
[BN_DEL] "Qantas 535, when ready for push contact ground 121.7"
 

VATPAC recommends the following routes between Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney:

YBBN – YSSY:  
DCT BN H91 CORKY H12 BOREE DCT

YBBN – YMML:  
DCT BN H91 SANEG Q923 CANTY H119 ML DCT

YMML – YBBN:   
DCT ML H66 LAGOB H185 BN DCT

YMML – YSSY: 
DCT ML H129 DOSEL Y59 TESAT DCT

YSSY – YBBN:   
DCT ENTRA Y245 BANDA H185 BN DCT

YSSY – YMML:  
DCT WOL H65 RAZZI Q29 ML DCT

Pilots are still welcome to fly other routes, however you must make sure your flight plan is compliant with Flight Planning Requirements. You can use our ATC Assist Tools 'Route Finder' function to find current valid routings.

Aerodrome and Departure/Approach charts are available for free within Australia which can be found here.

Controller Information:

Controllers who wish to participate in this event are encouraged to submit their application here. Applications will remain open until three days prior to the event, after which the roster will be released for viewing. *Non-Standard* positions may be available on the day. Please refer to the Activation of Non-Standard Positions NOTAM for more information.

Login Identifier:	Radio Callsign:	Frequency:
BN-ARL_CTR	Brisbane Centre	130.900
BN-INL_CTR	Brisbane Centre	134.200
BN-MLD_CTR*	Brisbane Centre	132.350
ML_BIK_CTR	Melbourne Centre	129.800
ML-ELW_CTR	Melbourne Centre	123.750
ML-BLA_CTR*	Melbourne Centre	132.000
ML-WOL_CTR*	Melbourne Centre	125.000
BN_DEL	Brisbane Delivery	118.850
BN_GND	Brisbane Ground	121.700
BN_TWR	Brisbane Tower	120.500
BN_APP	Brisbane Approach	124.700
BN_DEP*	Brisbane Departures	133.450
BN-F_APP*	Brisbane Finals	119.250
SY_DEL	Sydney Delivery	133.800
SY_GND	Sydney Ground	126.500
SY-E_GND*	Sydney Ground	121.700
SY_TWR	Sydney Tower	120.500
SY-E_TWR*	Sydney Tower	124.700
SY_APP	Sydney Approach	124.400
SY-D_APP*	Sydney Director	125.300
SY_DEP*	Sydney Departures	123.000
ML_DEL	Melbourne Delivery	127.200
ML_GND	Melbourne Ground	121.700
ML_TWR	Melbourne Tower	120.500
ML_APP	Melbourne Approach	132.000
ML_DEP*	Melbourne Departures	118.900

Recommended Scenery:

YBBN - Brisbane Airport:
Payware - ORBX (P3D v4.5+)
Payware - ORBX (MSFS)
Payware - ORBX (X-Plane 11)
Freeware - Ray Smith (P3D/FSX)
Freeware - CDG (X-Plane)

YSSY - Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport:
Payware - FlyTampa v2 (FSX/P3D)
Payware – FlyTampa (MSFS)
Payware - TaiModels (X-Plane 11)
Freeware - AVSIM (FSX/P3D)
Freeware - XPFlyer (X-Plane 11)

YMML - Melbourne Tullamarine Airport:
Payware - ORBX (P3D / FSX)
Freeware - Robert Catehrall (P3D / FSX)
Freeware - Jan Vogel (X-Plane)

We're always on the hunt for feedback on our events! Any comments? Head on over to our Helpdesk to let us know.

[18SEP22 | Panic Stations Melbourne]

NOTICE: Awards Eligibility Information - Panic Stations Melbourne

 

Hello Everyone,

To improve the fairness of how awards are distributed for this event, please see below the information for the eligibility criteria and method of selection for both Pilot & Controller awards..

 

Pilots:
Eligibility Requirements

1. Must be the first aircraft to arrive (touch down) at or after the target arrival time (In UTC Time);
2. The winning aircraft must make a full stop landing on the active or designated runway at the target airport, having complied with the VATSIM Code of Conduct, Code of Regulations and User Agreement at all times during the event. Aircraft who conduct a go-around will not be considered the winner;
3. Touch down times will be assessed based on the controller client display showing the aircraft to have arrived on the active runway, with an altitude equal to the airport elevation and a groundspeed suggesting that aircraft has landed;
4. The pilot departed from an airport which was at least 30NM from the target airport;
5. The pilot is not a VATPAC Director, and is not involved in the assessment process for the awards;

Chris G will contact pilots who reach all of these requirements over the network with instructions about how to redeem their reward.

 

Controllers:
Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible to receive an award for this event, controllers must meet all of the following:

1. The controller is not a VATPAC Director, and is not involved in the assessment process for the awards;
2. The controller is listed on the controller roster to provide ATC services for the event.
3. Remained on their controller position for the duration of their shift unless sufficient notice (15 Minutes) is provided about a controllers inability to stay on their position;

Eligible controllers will be assigned a random number from 1 to (number of controllers eligible.) A random draw will be conducted. The controller will be contacted by Chris G with instructions about how to redeem their reward.

 

Assessment Process

• All winners will be assessed by Chris G (Events Manager), and Alex M (Event Coordinator) who will be observing via a supported radar client during the event;
• Disputes regarding the decision of awards should be directed to the VATPAC Division Director. Video Evidence will be available for the Division Director to adequately respond to any disputes.

 

Queries can be sent to [email protected] - Enjoy Panic Stations Melbourne!

[NOTAM 18SEP22: Positions Reserved for Panic Stations Melbourne]

NOTAM: Positions Reserved for Panic Stations Melbourne

 

1 INTRODUCTION

The following positions are reserved under section 4.1 of the VATPAC Controller Positions and Ratings Policy. This NOTAM is the reservation of the positions noted in 2 RESERVED POSITIONS for the purpose of Panic Stations Melbourne.

 

2 RESERVED POSITIONS

The following positions are reserved from 0700z-1100z on the 18SEP22.

• ML_GND
• ML_TWR
• ML_APP
• ML_DEP
• ML-ELW_CTR
• ML-YWE_CTR
• ML-WON_CTR
• ML-FLW_CTR

 

3 AUTHORITY

This NOTAM Is under the authority of the following:

• Joshua M - Director of Events ([email protected])

 

4 EVENT CONTACT

The nominated Event Coordinator(s) for this event are:

• Joshua M - Director of Events ([email protected])
• Chris G - Events Manager ([email protected])

Event Coordinators will be available for contact on the VATPAC Discord, using the @eventcoordinator role. They can also be contacted via PM over the VATSIM network. They may also be logged onto the network as VATPAC35.

 

5 ROSTER

The roster for Panic Stations Melbourne can be viewed here.

If you have any questions about the roster, or with to have it amended, please email [email protected], or make contact with one of Event Coordinators in the VATPAC Discord Server.

If you find yourself free during the event, and wish to offer your ATC services, please contact one of the Event Coordinators and we will find a position for you!

 

6 CANCELLATION

This NOTAM will self-cancel at 1100z on the 18SEP22.

[02SEP22 | FIFO Friday]

If there’s one thing we do best, it’s the good old FIFO flight; keeping communities connected and opening up our stunning interior to the world. Explore this beautiful country on the first Friday of every month as we take a tour around our regional airfields.

VATPAC invites you to Australia’s famous Pilbara-Kimberley region in WA, famous for its red deserts, extraordinary rock formations and beautiful reefs. With connections to both Perth (YPPH) and Darwin (YPDN), towns in this region play a vital role in keeping WA’s mining and tourism industries rolling. Join us between 0700z-1000z (1700-2000 AEST; 1500-1800 AWST) on the 2nd of September 2022!

 

Routes:

The below map highlights some of the routes available to fly throughout this region:

Some other airports of importance in and around this region include: Solomon (YSOL), West Angelas (YANG), Roy Hill-Ginbata (YGIA), Boolgeeda (YBGD), and Fortescue (YFDF)

It is recommended to use the following routes when flying between these airports:

YPPH - YPKA	YPPH - YPKU
PH Y15 VETEL Z55 KA	PH AMANA Y31 MANIG Y36 BIDAP T63 ARG J72 KU
YPPH - YBRM	YPPH - YCPR
JET: PH Y31 BRM	PH Y15 CULAB POGAV
NON-JET: PH Z19 MURCH Y31 BRM
YPPH - YPPD	YPPH - YCWA
PH Y15 ESDEG Y44 BUTON PD	PH Y15 ESDEG Y60 HALEM SARIG
YPPH - YNWN	YPPH - YBRY
JET: PH Y31 WONYU V35 NWN	PH Y15 ESDEG Y60 GUVNA
NON-JET: PH Z19 MURCH Y31 MONYU V35 NWN
YPDN - YBRM	YPPH - YTST
DN HELLI J151 CIN J93 BRM	PH Z19 NORIC COPDI Y13 VALRA A339 GUNAM
YPDN - YPKU	YPPH - YSOL
DN HELLI J151 ZAMMI KU	PH Y15 ESDEG Y44 REMBO

 

ATC:

FIFO Fridays are not rostered. Positions are taken on a first come, first get basis. The recommended positions for the event are listed below:

Identifier:	Radio Callsign:	Frequency:
PH_DEL	Perth Delivery	118.550
PH_GND	Perth Ground	121.700
PH_TWR	Perth Tower	127.400
PH_APP	Perth Approach	123.600
DN_DEL	Darwin Delivery	126.800
DN_GND	Darwin Ground	121.800
DN_TWR	Darwin Tower	133.100
DN_APP	Darwin Approach	134.100
KA_GND	Karratha Ground	123.550
KA_TWR	Karratha Tower	127.350
BRM_GND	Broome Ground	121.700
BRM_TWR	Broome Tower	126.000
BN-TRT_CTR	Brisbane Centre	133.200
ML-OLW_CTR	Melbourne Centre	134.000
ML-PIY_CTR	Melbourne Centre	133.900

Please note that since both Broome and Karratha’s towers are procedural, they can only be staffed by members who are S3 or higher, or have completed their Procedural Tower Endorsement.

Scenery:

YPPH – Perth, WA
Payware – MFSG (P3D / FSX)
Freeware – AVSIM (P3D / FSX)
Payware - Axonos (X-Plane)
Payware - Axonos (MSFS)

YPDN – Darwin, NT
Payware – MFSG (P3D / FSX)
Freeware – Ant's Aussie Airports (P3D / FSX)
Freeware – WorldWideXP (X-Plane)

YBRM – Broome, WA
Payware – ORBX (P3D / FSX)
Payware - ORBX (X-Plane)

YPPD – Port Hedland, WA
Freeware – AVSIM (P3D / FSX)

YPKA -Karratha, WA
Payware - MSFG (P3D/FSX/MSFS)

Miscellaneous WA FIFO Airports:
Freeware – AVSIM (P3D / FSX)

Miscellaneous:
Payware – ORBX Australia V2 (P3D / FSX)
Payware - ORBX Global (P3D / FSX)

[Major Events Survey for 2023]

Do you have any ideas on a future VATPAC Major Event? Want to provide feedback to the Events Team on past editions of Events and play a part in the events calendar for next year?

The VATPAC Events Department is inviting members of the community to conduct a survey! This survey will be the driving force for all the Major Events that will be conducted in 2023.

 

Fill out the survey Here and let us know your ideas!

 

This survey will remain open from 17AUG22 -> 01NOV22.

[08OCT22 | Newbie Night - Melbourne, Launceston & Hobart]

Looking Good David!

Ill take a look at this tomorrow and provide my feedback

[Newbie Night Discussions]

Thanks David.

Love the ideas

 

Regarding FW, I am looking to run at least two of these events next year again, but would love if the opportunity comes up for us to run three.

Would be good to see a FW event with NZ next year. Will be discussing this in the coming months.

[NOTAM 07AUG22: Positions Reserved for First Wings - Sydney & Brisbane]

NOTAM: Positions Reserved for First Wings - Sydney & Brisbane

 

1 INTRODUCTION

The following positions are reserved under section 4.1 of the VATPAC Controller Positions and Ratings Policy. This NOTAM is the reservation of the positions noted in 2 RESERVED POSITIONS for the purpose of First Wings - Sydney & Brisbane.

 

2 RESERVED POSITIONS

The following positions are reserved from 0200z-0700z on the 07AUG22.

• BN-ARL_CTR
• BN-INL_CTR
• BN-MLD_CTR
• BN_APP
• BN_DEP
• BN_TWR
• BN_GND
• BN_DEL
• SY_APP
• SY_DEP
• SY_TWR
• SY_GND
• SY_DEL

 

3 AUTHORITY

This NOTAM Is under the authority of the following:

• Joshua M - Director of Events ([email protected])

 

4 EVENT CONTACT

The nominated Event Coordinator(s) for this event are:

• Joshua M - Director of Events ([email protected])
• Luke M - Event Coordinator ([email protected])

Event Coordinators will be available for contact on the VATPAC Discord, using the @eventcoordinator role. They can also be contacted via PM over the VATSIM network. They may also be logged onto the network as VATPAC35.

 

5 ROSTER

The roster for First Wings - Sydney & Brisbane can be viewed here.

If you have any questions about the roster, or with to have it amended, please email [email protected], or make contact with one of Event Coordinators in the VATPAC Discord Server.

If you find yourself free during the event, and wish to offer your ATC services, please contact one of the Event Coordinators and we will find a position for you!

 

 

6 CANCELLATION

This NOTAM will self-cancel at 0700z on the 07AUG22.

[Tyler H resigns from VATPAC Staff]

Good Evening Everyone,

It is with a heavy heart that I address the community today to announce that Tyler H has resigned from his VATPAC Staff positions with immediate effect.

 

Tyler has been a member of the Events Department as an Event Coordinator, and a member of the Air Training Services Department as an Instructor and Operations Advisor for over 18 months. Tyler has devoted significant portions of his own time to ensure that the community recieves the highest quality training and events possible.

A massive debt can be owed to Tyler for the running of Spilled Milk Run rostering last year, and the coordination of a large number of Major Events during his time as staff. Tyler was also at the forefront for assisting a large number of students progress through the mentoring stages for their controller ratings.

 

On behalf of the VATPAC Board, Senior Staff Team and Community, we thank you for all that you have done, and wish you luck on your future endeavours!

[16JUL22 | Long Haul - South East Asia Connect]

VATPAC is looking for members of the community to provide feedback about Long Haul - South East Asia Connect

This information will be valuable for VATPACs next long haul event.

Survey Link - https://forms.gle/8FQEvfJy4ZV9A7Bd8

[NOTAM 16JUL22: Positions Reserved during Long Haul - South East Asia Connect]

NOTAM: Positions Reserved for Long Haul - South East Asia Connect

 

1 INTRODUCTION

The following positions are reserved under section 4.1 of the VATPAC Controller Positions and Ratings Policy. This NOTAM is the reservation of the positions noted in 2 RESERVED POSITIONS for the purpose of Long Haul - South East Asia Connect.

 

2 RESERVED POSITIONS

The following positions are reserved from 0300z-1100z on the 16th of July 2022.

• ML_APP
• ML_TWR
• ML_GND
• ML_DEL
• AD_APP
• AD_TWR
• AD_GND
• AD_DEL
• ML-ELW_CTR
• ML-TBD_CTR
• ML-ASP_CTR
• ML-OLW_CTR
• BN-TRT_CTR
• ML-IND_FSS

 

3 AUTHORITY

This NOTAM Is under the authority of the following:

• Joshua M - Director of Events ([email protected])

 

4 EVENT CONTACT

The nominated Event Coordinator(s) for this event are:

• Joshua M - Director of Events ([email protected])
• Chris G - Events Manager ([email protected])
• Zachari G - Events Coordinator ([email protected])

Event Coordinators will be available for contact on the VATPAC Discord, using the @eventcoordinator role. They can also be contacted via PM over the VATSIM network. They may also be logged onto the network as VATPAC35.

 

5 ROSTER

The roster for Long Haul - South East Asia Connect can be viewed here.

If you have any questions about the roster, or with to have it amended, please email [email protected], or make contact with one of Event Coordinators in the VATPAC Discord Server.

If you find yourself free during the event, and wish to offer your ATC services, please contact one of the Event Coordinators and we will find a position for you!

 

6 CANCELLATION

This NOTAM will self-cancel at 1100z on the 16th of July 2022.

[VFR night should be more realistic]

Hi @ahmed b - 866864

In essence, you have described the GA Madness event which we sometimes host :).

The weekly VFR Event works in its current format. Although there are some inconsitencies with how it occurs in the real world, the event on the whole works quite well, and has catered to the membership for a large number of years.

Thank you for reaching out to us for your feedback. VATPAC Hosts some GA and VFR Events in addition to the 'VFR Operations' event, and these can be found via the Event Announcement page about a month before the event begins.

Any further questions, please feel free to reach out to me via email.

[Suggestion to implement Position Briefings]

Hi Pheonix,

Let me prefix this by saying, the following is a representation of my individual views, and is not a representation of the VATPAC Board, or VATPAC Staff Team in any way.

 

12 hours ago, Pheonix T - 1393124 said:

I've observed the skill level of new Controllers have noticeably decreased in the past two years, along with most lacking any desire to improve.

This will not be improved by a policy mandating controller handovers. There have been some instances over the past few years with controller misconduct, and these may be more common in recent years. I would say there is more here than just skill level that has contributed to these actions. In any case, controller conduct over the network can not be policed by VATPAC in the ways I think you believe we can. As Luke said, you need to contact a supervisor or email the Vice President of Supervisors to lodge any complaints you have with members actions on the network. The best that VATPAC can do is sit with the controller and talk about what happend (which has, and does continue to happen).

VATPAC holds all controllers to the GRP standards when passing their controller ratings. There is no expectation for everyone to be masters of their rating. After all, this is a network for us all to learn and grow together.

12 hours ago, Pheonix T - 1393124 said:

Then VATPAC should actually get their collective head out of the sand and start holding the controllers to a higher standard.

 I know as a vollunteer for this organisation, I do not appreciate it when claims are made like this with little to no evidence, or bold statements are made that we need to 'get up and do something'. With statements like these, are you looking to join in and assist with VATPAC creating these higher standards, or are you merely creating awareness of these 'issues' that you have percieved?

These are all questions for you, and any members who make complaints like this, are asked to think about yourselves when making these claims. They are not just words, and they can be a real blow to some members who pour their time into making this network better.

 

As Luke said, and you have been told consecutive times, these things need to be filed the official and correct way. Utilise the helpdesk, contact a supervisor, or email the VP of Supervisors if none are online.