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VATSIM Crosses 100,000 Concurrent Users During Cross the Pond 2026 Eastbound
By David Park · · 2 min read
VATSIM's flagship Cross the Pond event set a new record with over 100,000 concurrent users, as pilots flew eastbound across the Atlantic under full ATC coverage.
VATSIM's Cross the Pond 2026 Eastbound, held last weekend, shattered previous attendance records with a peak of 102,347 concurrent users, according to data released by the network. The event, which connects pilots flying from North America to Europe, featured full ATC coverage from departure to arrival, with hundreds of controllers staffing positions across both continents. Popular city pairs included KJFK-EGLL, CYYZ-EGLL, and KBOS-EIDW, with delays stretching to over an hour at peak times.
The event also highlighted the growing sophistication of the VATSIM community, with many pilots flying complex RNAV routes and adhering to strict oceanic separation procedures. Controllers reported high compliance with NAT tracks and ADS-C/CPDLC requirements. The record turnout is attributed to the continued growth of flight simulation and the increasing realism of add-on aircraft like the PMDG 737 and Fenix A320.
VATSIM organizers thanked volunteers and participants for making the event a success. The next Cross the Pond is scheduled for spring 2027, westbound. In the meantime, the network continues to host regular events, including this weekend's Real Ops at Frankfurt (EDDF).
Tags: VATSIM, Cross the Pond, online flying, ATC, event