Community
VATSIM Announces Record-Breaking Attendance at FSExpo 2026, Plans Expanded Regional Events
By Marco Delgado · · 2 min read
VATSIM reports over 3,000 attendees at FSExpo 2026 in Dallas, with a surge in new controller sign-ups. The network outlines plans for expanded regional events and a new pilot training initiative.
VATSIM has wrapped up its presence at FSExpo 2026 in Dallas, reporting record-breaking engagement with over 3,000 attendees visiting its booth and a 25% increase in new controller applications compared to last year. The network's leadership presented a roadmap for the coming year, including a series of regional events aimed at boosting traffic in underserved areas such as South America and Southeast Asia. The popular "Cross the Pond" event is also set to return in April 2027, with a new route structure that includes more city pairs.
In addition to events, VATSIM announced a new pilot training initiative called "VATSIM Pilot Academy," designed to provide structured mentorship for new simmers. The program will offer online workshops, practical exams, and a revised pilot rating system that aligns more closely with real-world PPL and IR standards. The network also highlighted its ongoing partnership with Navigraph, which provides up-to-date navdata and charts for VATSIM controllers and pilots.
Looking ahead, VATSIM plans to upgrade its voice communication system to a new codec that reduces latency and improves audio quality. The network also teased a new pilot client that will integrate with MSFS 2024's new weather and traffic APIs. For the community, these developments signal VATSIM's commitment to realism and accessibility. As one attendee put it, "VATSIM is the glue that holds the hobby together." With record attendance and ambitious plans, the network continues to be a cornerstone of the flight simulation experience.
Tags: VATSIM, FSExpo, community, events, training