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VATSIM Hosts Cross the Pond 2026: Record Participation and New Oceanic Clearance Procedures
By David Park · · 2 min read
VATSIM's flagship oceanic event, Cross the Pond, returns on October 24, 2026, with a record number of pilots and controllers. This year introduces updated oceanic clearance procedures and a new booking system to manage traffic flow.
VATSIM has announced that its premier transatlantic event, Cross the Pond, will take place on October 24, 2026. This year's edition is expected to be the largest yet, with over 2,500 pilots already registered and more than 300 controllers signed up across both Europe and North America. The event will feature departures from major European hubs including London Heathrow (EGLL), Amsterdam Schiphol (EHAM), and Frankfurt (EDDF), arriving at East Coast airports such as New York JFK (KJFK), Boston Logan (KBOS), and Toronto Pearson (CYYZ).
A key change for 2026 is the implementation of revised oceanic clearance procedures. In collaboration with real-world oceanic controllers, VATSIM has updated its NAT tracks and introduced a new clearance delivery system that requires pilots to request oceanic clearance via text rather than voice. This aims to reduce frequency congestion and improve realism. Pilots are also required to file accurate RNP 4 and RNP 10 compliance in their flight plans, reflecting modern PBN requirements.
The event will utilize a new booking system that assigns slot times based on aircraft performance and route. This system is designed to prevent overwhelming controllers during peak periods. Participants are reminded to review the updated pilot briefing, which includes detailed instructions for SELCAL checks, position reporting, and contingency procedures.
Cross the Pond 2026 is supported by Navigraph, which provides free charts and navdata to participants during the event. VATSIM encourages pilots to practice oceanic crossings in advance, particularly with add-ons like the PMDG 777-300ER or Fenix A320, which feature accurate oceanic and NAT track support. Registration remains open until October 20.
Tags: VATSIM, Cross the Pond, Oceanic, Navigraph, PBN