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Pakistan vACC ATS Policy

Document Identification

Field Details
Type Policy
Revision 2/26
Issue Date 04 May 2026
Effective Date 24 May 2026
Prepared By PAK1 – Salman Sikandar
Approved By WA1 – Janam Parikh; WA3 – Rahul Chakraborty
Next Review Date Within 12 months of effective date, or earlier if GCAP/TVCP/VATWA policy changes
Identification PAK-ATS-POL-2/26

Amendment Record

Revision Date Summary of Changes Prepared By Approved By
01/25 27 Nov 2024 Previous GCAP-aligned ATC policy revision. PAK1 – Salman Sikandar WA1
2/26 04 May 2026 Full restructure and compliance update for GCAP v1.1 and TVCP v2.0. Clarifies ratings, endorsements, roster visibility, visitors, transfers, solo endorsements, currency and reinstatement. PAK1 – Salman Sikandar WA1, WA3

Contents

    1. Document Information
    1. Authority, Scope and Precedence
    1. Definitions
    1. Controller Ratings and Position Authorization
    1. Position Designations and Endorsements
    1. ATC Roster and Publication Requirements
    1. Resident Controller Training Program
    1. Rating Progression Pathways
    1. Solo Endorsements
    1. Practical Examinations / CPTs
    1. Consolidation, Signoff and Returning Controllers
    1. Visiting Controllers
    1. Transfers
    1. Activity, Currency and Roster Retention
    1. ATC Sessions, Top-Down Coverage and Operational Conduct
    1. Mentors, Instructors and Training Records
    1. Standards, Restrictions and Removal of Privileges
    1. References
    1. Appendix A. Position Designation Implementation List
    1. Appendix B. Minimum Rating Competency Summary
    1. Appendix C. Implementation Notes and Changes from Rev 1/2025

1. Document Information

1.1 Purpose

This policy defines the local procedures used by Pakistan vACC for controller authorization, training, rating progression, endorsements, visiting controllers, transfers, activity requirements and operational standards within Pakistan vACC airspace on the VATSIM network. The policy is intended to provide a clear, and fair framework for resident, transferring and visiting controllers while preserving the ability of Pakistan vACC to maintain safe, realistic and high-quality online ATC operations.

1.2 Limitation of Liability

This document has been created solely for use on the VATSIM network in support of aviation simulation. It must not be used for real-world aviation, training, navigation, or operational purposes. Pakistan vACC, VATWA and VATSIM accept no responsibility for misuse outside the VATSIM simulation environment.

1.3 General Provisions

  • All Pakistan vACC controllers must comply with the VATSIM Code of Conduct, GCAP, TVCP, VATWA policies, Pakistan vACC procedures and any published local operating procedures.
  • Pakistan vACC may only restrict access to positions, ratings, training or endorsements where permitted by GCAP, TVCP or higher-level VATSIM/VATWA policy.
  • If any part of this policy conflicts with VATSIM GCAP, VATSIM TVCP, the VATSIM Code of Conduct or VATWA policy, the higher-level policy shall prevail.
  • Policy changes shall be communicated through official Pakistan vACC and/or VATWA channels. Controllers are expected to remain aware of current policy and procedural revisions.

1.4 Acknowledgement

Pakistan vACC acknowledges the work of previous Pakistan vACC leadership and training staff who prepared earlier versions of the ATC policy and training material. This updated draft builds upon Rev 1/2025 and restructures it for clearer GCAP/TVCP alignment.

2. Authority, Scope and Precedence

2.1 Authority

Pakistan vACC is responsible for administering local ATC training and controller authorization within its delegated area, subject to oversight by VATWA, the relevant VATSIM Region and the VATSIM Board of Governors policy framework. Where GCAP or TVCP assigns approval authority to the Division, Regional Vice President or another higher authority, Pakistan vACC shall not enforce the relevant local restriction until the necessary approval has been obtained and the restriction has been published in the required manner.

2.2 Scope

  • Resident controllers allocated to Pakistan vACC.
  • Controllers transferring into Pakistan vACC.
  • Visiting controllers authorized to control within Pakistan vACC airspace.
  • Mentors, instructors, examiners and staff involved in ATC training and administration.
  • ATC positions and endorsements within Pakistan vACC airspace.

2.3 Precedence

The order of precedence is: VATSIM Code of Regulations and Code of Conduct; VATSIM GCAP and TVCP; VATWA regional/divisional policy; this Pakistan vACC ATS Policy; local SOPs, LOAs and training documents. Local SOPs and training documents may explain procedures but must not create additional eligibility restrictions beyond this policy and GCAP/TVCP.

3. Definitions

Term Meaning in this Policy
ATC Rating A VATSIM controller rating: OBS, S1, S2, S3, C1 or C3.
ATC Roster A published list showing which members are permitted to control within Pakistan vACC and which endorsements or solo privileges they hold.
CPT / Practical Examination A practical assessment of a controller's ability to meet rating or endorsement competencies.
Designated Position A Tier 1, Tier 2 or Super Center position requiring an endorsement under GCAP.
Endorsement Authorization to operate a position or group of positions requiring knowledge or competency above the base rating.
Local Induction Plan A transfer or visitor familiarization pathway covering Pakistan vACC documentation, procedures and any permitted theory or practical elements.
Mentor A person authorized by Pakistan vACC/VATWA to conduct training sessions.
Solo Endorsement Temporary authorization for a trainee rated S2 or above to control a specified position one rating above their current rating while training for the next rating.
Unrestricted Position A position that does not require a Tier 1, Tier 2 or Super Center endorsement and may be controlled by a rostered controller with the required rating.
Visitor A controller permitted to control in Pakistan vACC while retaining a home allocation elsewhere.

4. Controller Ratings and Position Authorization

4.1 VATSIM ATC Ratings

Pakistan vACC recognizes the VATSIM ATC rating structure: Observer (OBS), Developing Controller (S1), Aerodrome Controller (S2), Terminal Controller (S3), Enroute Controller (C1) and Senior Controller (C3). Ratings are granted sequentially in accordance with GCAP rating competencies and VATWA processes.

4.2 Minimum Rating Required for Independent Control

Minimum Rating Position Type Common Callsign Suffix
S1 Clearance Delivery _DEL
S1 Ground Control / Ground Sequencing _GND / _DEL
S1 Ramp Control, where locally implemented and approved _RMP
S2 Tower Control _TWR
S3 Approach Control _APP
S3 Departure Control _DEP
C1 Enroute / FSS / Oceanic where applicable _CTR / _FSS
Defined locally Radio Operator / Traffic Flow positions, where implemented _RDO / _TMU / _FMP

4.3 Authorization to Operate

A controller may operate a Pakistan vACC position only when all of the following are satisfied:

  • the controller is listed on the Pakistan vACC or VATWA ATC roster as permitted to control within Pakistan vACC airspace;
  • the controller holds the minimum ATC rating required for the position;
  • where the position is designated, the controller holds the required endorsement or a valid solo endorsement covering that position; and
  • the controller is current and not subject to a valid restriction under this policy, GCAP, TVCP or VATWA policy. Top-down coverage shall apply in accordance with GCAP and local sectorization. A controller providing top down coverage does not need the endorsement for an underlying designated position while another endorsed controller is online on that underlying or adjacent position. If the endorsed controller logs off and the top-down controller lacks the required endorsement, the top-down controller must cease providing that designated service or log onto an appropriate position.

4.4 S1 Tower Authorization

Pakistan vACC may only permit Developing Controllers (S1) to operate specified Tower positions independently where VATWA/Division approval exists and the approved positions are clearly published. Unless such approval and publication exists, S1 controllers are limited to S1-level positions except when receiving supervised training or holding a valid solo endorsement for the next rating.

5. Position Designations and Endorsements

5.1 Unrestricted Positions

Any Pakistan vACC position not published as Tier 1, Tier 2 or Super Center is Unrestricted. A rostered controller with the required rating may operate an Unrestricted position without an additional endorsement.

5.2 Tier 1 Designation

Tier 1 designation may only be used for positions with high traffic levels and/or complex procedures where incorrect or inefficient operation would significantly affect pilots or adjacent controllers. A Tier 1 endorsement is required to operate the relevant position. Tier 1 training and assessment may include written and practical elements, but shall not exceed the minimum standard needed to operate the position during normal VATSIM operations.

5.3 Tier 2 Designation

Tier 2 designation may only be used for positions or groups of positions with significant differences from standard operating procedures. Tier 2 positions must be grouped by a common atypical procedure, and one Tier 2 endorsement shall cover all positions within that group. Tier 2 endorsement training may include self study, limited familiarization, limited simulated or live training and a written exam. A practical exam must not be required for a Tier 2 endorsement.

5.4 Super Center Designation

Pakistan vACC shall not operate a Super Center designation unless approved through the GCAP approval process. If approved, the Super Center, its procedures, approval date, endorsement requirements and roster visibility shall be published before enforcement.

5.5 Approval and Publication

  • Pakistan vACC shall petition VATWA for any new or changed Tier 1 or Tier 2 designation and shall provide justification showing how the designation meets GCAP.
  • Designated status shall only be enforceable after approval by the competent authority and publication on the Pakistan vACC or VATWA website/roster.
  • The published list must show the designated position or group, the endorsement required, the effective date and the controllers authorized to operate the position or group.
  • Any change that materially alters the scope of a designation shall be reviewed through the appropriate Division/Region process before enforcement.

6. ATC Roster and Publication Requirements

Pakistan vACC shall maintain or link to an ATC roster available to VATSIM account holders. The roster shall identify which controllers are authorized to control in Pakistan vACC airspace and, where applicable, the endorsements they hold. The roster shall include, as applicable: controller name, VATSIM CID, home/visitor/transfer status, rating, authorized positions or position groups, Tier 1/Tier 2/Super Center endorsements, solo endorsements with expiry dates, and any published restrictions relevant to position authorization. Solo endorsement expiry dates and designated position endorsements must be visible before they are enforced. Pakistan vACC staff shall update the roster as soon as practicable after rating upgrades, endorsement awards, removals, visitor approvals, transfer completions or reinstatements.

7. Resident Controller Training Program

7.1 General Training Principles

  • Training shall focus on the GCAP rating competencies, Pakistan vACC local procedures, coordination standards, phraseology and practical readiness for normal VATSIM traffic.
  • Training requirements shall not exceed what is necessary to meet the competencies for the relevant rating on Unrestricted positions, except where a separate endorsement is being sought.
  • Resident members shall request training through the official Pakistan HQ/training system.
  • Mentors and instructors shall record training sessions, trainee progress, recommendations and deficiencies in the approved training record system.
  • Trainees are expected to prepare using current Pakistan vACC manuals, SOPs, charts, sector files and any required VATWA e-learning material.

7.2 Written Examinations

Written examinations shall assess rating knowledge and local procedure knowledge where appropriate. A score of not less than 90% is required to pass any written examination used for rating progression or endorsement issuance. Where an exam is failed, Pakistan vACC/VATWA may impose a cooling-off period to allow further study. The first written examination cooling-off period shall not exceed 72 hours. Any extended period after repeated failures shall follow VATWA policy and must remain reasonable and training-focused.

7.3 Practical Training

Practical training may be conducted on sweatbox/simulator sessions or the live VATSIM network under an approved mentor/instructor. When training on the live network, the mentor must be connected, observing relevant communications and able to intervene where required. Practical training sessions are not themselves practical examinations unless the trainee has been clearly informed that the session is an assessment and the approved assessment criteria are being used.

8. Rating Progression Pathways

8.1 OBS to S1 - Developing Controller

  1. Member joins or is allocated to Pakistan vACC and reviews the induction material.
  2. Member studies relevant S1 material covering clearance delivery, ground control, phraseology, basic coordination, flight plans, METAR/TAF interpretation and client setup.
  3. Member passes the required vACC and the divisional written examination with at least 90%.
  4. Upon completion of VATWA/Pakistan vACC administrative requirements, the S1 rating/authorization is processed, and the member may be rostered for S1-level positions.
  5. A practical familiarization session may be offered or recommended before the first live ATC session, but a practical exam is not required for the S1 rating unless higher-level policy changes.

8.2 S1 to S2 - Aerodrome Controller

  1. Trainee meets any VATWA/Pakistan vACC approved consolidation or prerequisite requirement for S2 training.
  2. Trainee studies tower control material including runway selection, departures, arrivals, circuit/VFR operations, wake turbulence, missed approaches/go-arounds, coordination and local aerodrome procedures.
  3. Trainee completes practical training with an approved mentor/instructor.
  4. Trainee passes the required written examination with at least 90%.
  5. Trainee may receive a valid S2 solo endorsement for specified _T_TWR position(s), where appropriate, for additional practice.
  6. Trainee undertakes and passes an approved S2 practical examination/CPT assessing S2 competencies on an Unrestricted Tower position or an approved equivalent pathway.
  7. The S2 rating is recommended and processed as soon as practicable after successful completion.

8.3 S2 to S3 - Terminal Controller

  1. Trainee meets any VATWA/Pakistan vACC approved consolidation or prerequisite requirement for S3 training.
  2. Trainee studies terminal procedures including arrival/departure control, airspace boundaries, separation, vectoring, speed/altitude control, approach clearances, holding, missed approach coordination and adjacent sector coordination.
  3. The trainee completes practical training with an approved mentor/instructor.
  4. Trainee passes the required written examination with at least 90%.
  5. Trainee may receive a valid solo endorsement for specified _T_APP/_T_DEP position(s), where appropriate.
  6. Trainee undertakes and passes an approved S3 practical examination/CPT assessing S3 competencies on an Unrestricted terminal position or an approved equivalent pathway.
  7. The S3 rating is recommended and processed as soon as practicable after successful completion.

8.4 S3 to C1 - Enroute Controller

  1. Trainee meets any VATWA/Pakistan vACC approved consolidation or prerequisite requirement for C1 training.
  2. Trainee studies enroute procedures including sector boundaries, top-down responsibilities, route structures, coordination, sequencing, surveillance/non-surveillance procedures where applicable, weather and traffic information, STAR/descent planning and inter-facility coordination.
  3. Trainee completes practical training with an approved mentor/instructor.
  4. Trainee passes the required written examination with at least 90%.
  5. Trainee may receive a valid solo endorsement for specified _T_CTR position(s), where appropriate.
  6. Trainee undertakes and passes an approved C1 practical examination/CPT assessing C1 competencies on an Unrestricted enroute position, or on a designated position only where GCAP permits and the assessment path still allows rating award based on Unrestricted competencies.
  7. The C1 rating is recommended and processed as soon as practicable after successful completion.

8.5 C1 to C3 - Senior Controller

The C3 rating does not grant additional ATC operating privileges beyond C1. Any recommendation for C3 shall follow VATSIM/VATWA policy. Pakistan vACC’s ATS Department may submit a recommendation only where the controller demonstrates sustained maturity, professionalism, leadership, procedural knowledge and contribution to the ATC community. Final approval rests with the competent VATWA authority.

8.6 Endorsements and Rating Progression

Pakistan vACC must provide a pathway for members to achieve ratings up to S3 that does not require them to also obtain endorsements. If training or an assessment occurs on a designated position, the trainee must remain eligible to receive the rating once the Unrestricted rating competencies are met, even if the trainee does not meet the separate endorsement requirements. Endorsement training or assessment must not delay rating training or rating assessment. Written endorsement training may be conducted alongside rating training, but endorsement decisions shall remain separate from rating decisions.

9. Solo Endorsements

  • A solo endorsement may be issued only to a controller rated S1 or higher who is training for the next ATC rating.
  • A solo endorsement authorizes the trainee to independently operate a specific position, or smaller part of that position, one rating above their current rating.
  • Solo endorsements shall be issued for a continuous period between 7 and 90 days. The total solo endorsement time at one rating shall not exceed 90 days unless a Region Vice President approves an extension permitted by GCAP.
  • A solo endorsement must not be issued merely because practical training is unavailable.
  • Solo endorsement details, including expiry date, trainee name, CID and position, must be published on the Pakistan vACC/VATWA roster before use.
  • A solo endorsement may cover a Tier 1 or Tier 2 position only where approved by the Division and only for the specific position(s) listed. Typical solo endorsements in Pakistan vACC may include S1-to-S2 tower solo, S2-to-S3 approach/departure solo and S3-to-C1 enroute solo. The exact position(s), duration and restrictions shall be determined by staff based on trainee readiness, traffic expectations, mentor recommendations and GCAP limits.

10. Practical Examinations / CPTs

10.1 Purpose

A Controller Practical Test (CPT) or practical examination assesses whether the candidate demonstrates the competencies required for the relevant rating or endorsement. Practical examinations must use specific criteria approved by VATWA/Pakistan vACC as applicable.

10.2 Format

  • A practical examination may be conducted on the live VATSIM.
  • Live CPTs may be scheduled during events where appropriate, but the traffic level should allow a fair assessment of normal VATSIM operations and must not be artificially unreasonable.
  • A practical examination for S2, S3 or C1 rating progression shall include the required GCAP rating competencies for that rating.
  • A Tier 1 endorsement practical examination, where used, shall evaluate the additional competencies required for the Tier 1 position. A Tier 2 endorsement shall not require a practical examination.

10.3 Outcomes

If a candidate passes, the rating or endorsement recommendation shall be processed as soon as practicable, with the goal of completion within 48 hours where administrative systems allow. If a candidate does not pass, the examiner shall provide clear feedback identifying the criteria or competencies that were deficient. The trainee shall receive a focused remedial training plan before another attempt is scheduled. Failure of a practical examination shall not be used punitively and shall not remove an existing rating unless a separate GCAP standards process is followed.

11. Consolidation, Signoff and Returning Controllers

11.1 Consolidation Between Ratings

A consolidation period after a rating upgrade may only be required where permitted by VATWA/Division policy. Any consolidation requirement shall not exceed 50 hours and shall not be limited to an area smaller than Pakistan vACC. Hours shall only be counted when the rating being consolidated is required for the position controlled. Participation in local events is encouraged because it improves coordination and traffic handling. However, event participation shall not be used as a mandatory additional prerequisite for rating training unless expressly permitted by VATWA/Division policy and GCAP.

11.2 Position Signoff

Pakistan vACC may use local signoff procedures to confirm that a member has reviewed local SOPs, sector files, coordination procedures and position-specific expectations. A signoff shall not be used to create an additional rating restriction beyond GCAP unless tied to an approved endorsement, roster currency requirement or VATWA-approved training process.

11.3 Returning After a Long Break

A controller returning after a long period of inactivity may be asked to complete a currency/reinstatement plan before being restored to the roster or before further training. Unless the controller requests additional training, the plan shall be limited to relevant self-study/written material and/or one practical session with a suitable controller, in line with GCAP currency reinstatement rules.

12. Visiting Controllers

12.1 Eligibility

  • A visiting applicant must normally hold S3 or higher and be current in their home allocation.
  • The applicant must have completed at least 50 hours on positions requiring their current rating in their home allocation before applying to visit, unless higher-level policy provides otherwise.
  • A visiting applicant may be rejected only for reasons permitted by TVCP, including ineligibility, disciplinary history within the last year, or failure to meet the visited allocation's published currency requirement assessed within the preceding two quarters.
  • Instructor ratings are for use within the home allocation and do not authorize a visitor to log on as an instructor in Pakistan vACC.

12.2 Application and Initial Authorization

  1. Visitor submits an application through Pakistan vACC HQ or the official application process published by VATWA/Pakistan vACC.
  2. Pakistan vACC verifies eligibility, rating, home allocation currency and any relevant disciplinary/currency information.
  3. Visitor completes the required local induction: documentation review, local procedure study and any permitted theory assessment or familiarization session.
  4. Pakistan vACC may require the visitor to obtain visiting status on Unrestricted positions and complete up to 10 hours on those positions before seeking designated position endorsements.
  5. Once approved, the visitor is added to the published visitor roster showing authorized positions and endorsements.

12.3 Visitor Training and Endorsements

Visitor training and assessment shall not exceed the minimum standard needed to operate the requested position(s) during normal VATSIM operations. Visitors may apply for Unrestricted and Designated positions. Pakistan vACC may prioritize home members for ratings and endorsements but must not make it impossible or impractical for visitors to obtain visitor status or endorsements. Visitors cannot receive training for new ATC ratings in Pakistan vACC unless Pakistan vACC is their home allocation. Visitors may, however, receive local procedure familiarization and endorsement training required to control within Pakistan vACC.

12.4 Visitor Currency

  • Visitors must perform at least half of their controlling in their home allocation in each quarter.
  • Visitors must also meet Pakistan vACC's published roster currency requirement while on the Pakistan visitor roster.
  • A visitor who is no longer current in their home allocation may be removed from the Pakistan vACC visiting roster.
  • A visitor removed for currency may request reinstatement when current in their home allocation. First reinstatement shall follow the same currency reinstatement process as home members. If the visitor repeatedly loses currency within two years or does not request return within six months, Pakistan vACC may require a fresh visiting application.

13. Transfers

13.1 Eligibility and Process

  • Transfers are governed by VATSIM TVCP and relevant VATWA/Pakistan vACC procedures.
  • A controller with an ATC rating must normally have completed at least 50 hours on positions requiring their current rating in their home allocation before requesting transfer.
  • A transfer request is normally not permitted until 90 days after a new rating award, a completed transfer, or return to a previous allocation after an incomplete transfer.
  • The transfer period is normally 90 days from approval/notification, subject to TVCP extensions where applicable.
  • A transfer request may only be rejected for reasons permitted by TVCP and, where required, with Division/sub-division agreement and written reasons.

13.2 Local Induction Plan

For a transfer into Pakistan vACC from within the same Division, the Local Induction Plan shall not be more restrictive than procedure familiarization, documentation review, a theory assessment and/or up to 10 hours of unsupervised controlling for familiarity. Practical training and practical assessment shall not be required for intra-division transfers except permitted enroute familiarization sessions. For a transfer from another Division or Region, the Local Induction Plan may include a Competency Check on the live network where permitted by TVCP. Practical training may be offered or recommended, but the transferring controller may elect to proceed directly to the Competency Check where TVCP allows. The transfer is completed when the controller can operate Unrestricted positions up to their current rating in Pakistan vACC. On completion, Pakistan vACC/VATWA shall make the necessary member record and roster updates.

13.3 Enroute Familiarization

Because local enroute procedures can significantly affect adjacent controllers and pilots, Pakistan vACC may require familiarization training for visitors or transferees seeking to control Pakistan vACC enroute positions. Familiarization may include a short theory course, a theory exam based on local documentation or limited practical familiarization. It shall focus only on local procedures and shall not be treated as a rating competency assessment.

14. Activity, Currency and Roster Retention

14.1 Activity Requirement

Controller Status Requirement Measurement Period
Resident 6 hours controlling on Pakistan vACC controllable positions Semi-annual / 6-month period
Visitor 3 hours controlling on Pakistan vACC controllable positions, plus home allocation currency and 50% home controlling requirement Per quarter / 3-month period

The activity requirement shall be applied uniformly to controllers of the same status and rating. Pakistan vACC may issue reminders before roster review dates. Removal for activity/currency is administrative and does not remove the member's VATSIM ATC rating.

14.2 Procedure Currency

Controllers are expected to remain current with significant local procedure, policy, sectorization and LOA changes. Where Pakistan vACC requires acknowledgement of procedure changes, the controller shall not be considered out of date until the change has been outstanding for more than two months. Before removal based on failure to acknowledge a procedure update, Pakistan vACC shall notify the controller and provide one month to re-establish currency.

14.3 Roster Removal and Reinstatement

A controller who does not meet currency requirements may be removed from the roster and made ineligible for further rating/endorsement training until reinstated. Reinstatement may be immediate where staff are satisfied that the controller remains current, or may require a focused currency plan. Unless the controller requests more, the plan shall be no more extensive than self-study/written material and/or one practical session with a suitable controller.

14.4 Endorsement Currency

  • Tier 1 or Super Center endorsement currency may use an activity requirement that includes endorsed positions and positions capable of controlling the endorsed airspace top-down.
  • Tier 2 endorsement currency may only be based on acknowledgement of relevant procedure changes, not a separate activity-hours requirement.
  • An endorsement removed for currency may be reinstated immediately or through a focused plan no more restrictive than the original endorsement requirement or the GCAP currency reinstatement process.

15. ATC Sessions, Top-Down Coverage and Operational Conduct

15.1 Session Expectations

Controllers should plan ATC sessions of sufficient length to provide a stable and useful service. The following session durations are recommended for planning and quality of service purposes:

ATC Position Recommended Minimum Session
Delivery 45 minutes
Ground 45 minutes
Tower 45 minutes
Approach/Departure 1 hour
Enroute 1 hour

Shorter sessions may be reasonable due to real-life commitments, traffic levels or controller workload. These recommendations do not override GCAP or roster currency rules.

15.2 Before Logging On

  • Review current NOTAM-like vACC notices, active sectorization, adjacent ATC, runway configuration and weather.
  • Coordinate with active adjacent or underlying controllers before connecting where required.
  • Ensure controller client, audio client, sector files and plugins are current and functioning.
  • When joining during busy traffic, consider observing briefly before opening to avoid disrupting ongoing coordination.

15.3 Top-Down Service and Workload

Controllers shall provide top-down coverage in accordance with GCAP, local SOPs and reasonable workload limits. Where a controller becomes overloaded, the controller may reduce top-down service or request pilots to expect delays. In extreme cases, the controller may withdraw top-down service from an airport or move to a smaller/split position where available.

15.4 Events

Event rosters may be managed separately from ATC roster privileges. Failure to attend an accepted event booking may result in event-roster consequences, de-prioritization for future events or staff follow-up. Any removal of general ATC privileges must still comply with GCAP, TVCP and this policy.

16. Mentors, Instructors and Training Records

  • Mentors and instructors shall be appointed or authorized under Pakistan vACC procedures.
  • Mentors may provide theory, sweatbox, live-network and familiarization training within the scope of their authorization.
  • Instructors/examiners shall conduct practical examinations only where authorized and using approved criteria.
  • Training records shall be clear, objective, respectful and useful for the trainee's next session.
  • A trainee may request clarification of feedback or a training decision through the ATC Training Director or Pakistan vACC Director. Escalation to VATWA shall follow VATWA procedures.

17. Standards, Restrictions and Removal of Privileges

Pakistan vACC's primary goal is to keep suitably rated controllers active and supported. Restricting or removing controlling privileges should be a last resort and shall follow GCAP/TVCP requirements.

  • Where a controller appears below standard, staff should first attempt to resolve the matter through feedback, mentoring, self-study or procedure clarification.
  • Where a controller is consistently below the required standard to the point that it disrupts pilots or other controllers, Pakistan vACC may petition VATWA for restrictions in accordance with GCAP.
  • Any petition must be supported by reliable and sustained evidence and must be reviewed through the Division/Region process required by GCAP.
  • Possible restrictions may include removal of endorsements, removal from the roster, or ineligibility for training until the issue is resolved, where approved by the competent authority.
  • Disciplinary matters shall be handled under VATSIM/VATWA processes. This policy does not replace the VATSIM Code of Conduct or supervisor processes.

18. References

Reference Document / Policy VATSIM-POL-GCAP VATSIM Global Controller Administration Policy, Version 1.1 VATSIM-POL-TVCP VATSIM Transfer and Visiting Controller Policy, Version 2.0 VATSIM Code of Conduct Current VATSIM member conduct policy VATWA Policy / HQ Procedures Applicable VATWA division/subdivision training, rostering and ticketing procedures Pakistan vACC ATC Manual / SOPs / LOAs Local procedures, sectorization, coordination and operational guidance

Appendix A. Position Designation Implementation List

The following implementation list reflects the designations carried forward from the previous Pakistan vACC policy draft. Pakistan vACC must verify VATWA/Region approval and publish the approved list on the website/roster before enforcing any designated position restriction. If the official approved designated-position list differs from this appendix, the official approved list prevails.

A.1 Tier 1 Positions

Position / Airspace Designation Endorsement Implementation Note CHR_APP Tier 1 CHR_APP Tier 1 Complex terrain/procedure environment. Enforce only if approved and published. OPLR_CTR Tier 1 OPLR_CTR Tier 1 Complex enroute/terminal top-down environment. Enforce only if approved and published. ISB_CTR Tier 1 ISB_CTR Tier 1 Complex sector/traffic mix. Enforce only if approved and published. OPLR-W_CTR Tier 1 OPLR-W_CTR Tier 1 Sector split/complex coordination. Enforce only if approved and published.

A.2 Tier 2 Groups

Group Likely Positions / Airfields Endorsement Permitted Training/Assessment Northern Airfields OPSD, OPGT, OPCH, OPSS and any other published northern/mountain airfields Northern Airfields Tier 2 Study + optional familiarization + written exam. No practical exam. Multan OPMT and related published positions Multan Tier 2 Study + optional familiarization + written exam. No practical exam. Quetta OPQT and related published positions Quetta Tier 2 Study + optional familiarization + written exam. No practical exam. Peshawar OPPS and related published positions Peshawar Tier 2 Study + optional familiarization + written exam. No practical exam.

A.3 Unrestricted Positions

All other Pakistan vACC positions are Unrestricted unless and until approved and published as Designated Positions. Unrestricted status does not remove the requirement for the controller to hold the minimum ATC rating and be listed on the roster.

Appendix B. Minimum Rating Competency Summary

This appendix summarizes the competency areas used by Pakistan vACC training. The controlling authority remains GCAP Appendix A and any VATWA-approved assessment criteria. Rating Core Competency Areas S1 DEL/GND role, phraseology, flight plans, weather, basic airspace, controller client setup, clearances, taxi/ground movement, runway crossing coordination and basic coordination. S2 Tower role, runway configuration, takeoff/landing clearances, VFR circuits, separation, wake turbulence, go-arounds/missed approaches, runway changes and coordination. S3 APP/DEP roles, airspace boundaries, radar identification, vectoring, speed/altitude control, separation, approach clearances, holding, uncontrolled operations and coordination. C1 C3 Enroute role, sector management, multiple frequencies/transceivers, advanced scan, coordination, sequencing, separation, STAR/descent clearances, route deviation requests, weather/traffic services. No additional operating privilege beyond C1; awarded under VATSIM/VATWA criteria for senior controller recognition.

Appendix C. Implementation Notes and Changes from Rev 1/2025

  • Tier 2 Practical Exams Removed: Tier 2 endorsements may not require a practical exam. The updated policy limits Tier 2 checks to self-study, limited familiarization/training and written examination.
  • Visitor Eligibility Updated: The previous 200-hour S3 visitor requirement has been replaced with TVCP aligned eligibility, including S3+ current status and 50 hours on current-rating positions in the home allocation.
  • Transfers Clarified: Intra-division transfers are limited to documentation, theory and up to 10 hours unsupervised familiarization, with no practical assessment except permitted enroute familiarization.
  • Currency Reinstatement Limited: Returning controllers cannot be required to repeat a full rating course unless they request it. Reinstatement is focused on currency, self-study and/or one practical session.
  • Consolidation Reframed: The previous 50-hour signoff concept has been retained only as a VATWA approved consolidation maximum. Mandatory event participation has been changed to encouragement rather than a hard rating prerequisite.
  • Roster Visibility Added: The policy now requires publication of controller authorizations, endorsements and solo expiry dates.
  • Rating and Endorsement Decisions Separated: Ratings are awarded on Unrestricted-position competencies even where a separate endorsement is not awarded.