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VATSIM and IVAO Joint Cross-Network Event Draws Record Participation
By Jason Chan · · 2 min read
A record 3,200 pilots and 850 controllers participated in last weekend's VATSIM–IVAO cross-network event, covering European airspace with full ATC services. The success has prompted discussions of monthly joint sessions.
The virtual aviation community witnessed an unprecedented display of collaboration as VATSIM and IVAO ran a joint cross-network event over the weekend, with more than 3,200 pilots and 850 air traffic controllers taking part. The event covered most of Europe, from EHAM to LIRF, and operated with full ATC services, including approach, radar, and tower positions, all coordinated between the two networks.
Pilots flying major routes like the LFPG-EDDF shuttle experienced realistic traffic flows, with controllers managing sequencing via standard SID/STAR procedures and vectoring for spacing. The event also included special non-radar sectors in oceanic airspace, where pilots were required to use procedural separation and position reports over HF, adding an extra layer of challenge for long-haulers.
The success of the event has sparked discussions about regular monthly joint sessions, with organizers citing the need to develop standardized coordination procedures between the two networks. "We learned a lot about how to manage mixed-network operations," said a VATSIM event coordinator. "The demand is clearly there, and we're now looking at how to make it a sustainable initiative."
For simmers, this event highlighted the benefits of cross-network flying, offering a larger pool of controllers and pilots. The increased traffic density provided a realistic test for add-ons like the Fenix A320 and PMDG 737, with pilots reporting accurate ground traffic and ATC interactions. As the community grows, such events may become a regular fixture, potentially bridging the divide between the two major networks.
Tags: VATSIM, IVAO, Cross-network, Virtual ATC, Community Event