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ATC Training Policy

Policy Information

Control Details
Type Syllabus
Revision 01/2025
Effective Date 15 SEP 2025
Prepared by Chriss Klosowski - ACCARB1 & Suprojit Paul - ACCARB3
Approved by Chriss Klosowski - ACCARB1
Effective Date 15 SEP 2026
Cancelled documents -

Record of Revisions

Revision Number Notes Effective Date
01/2025 Initial Issue 15 SEP 2025

Scope

This syllabus outlines the structure and learning pathway for students pursuing the S2 rating within the Arabian vACC.

Students will achieve the course objectives through a combination of independent study and guided practical training. Core learning materials are provided via the Moodle platform and the Arabian vACC Library.

In addition to self-study, students will receive one-on-one practical instruction from mentors and instructors. Active participation and engagement are encouraged throughout your training.

Students are also encouraged to ask questions and seek support in the ATC Training category on the Arabian vACC Discord server.

Warning

All documentation in this section is intended solely for use on the VATSIM network and must not be used for real-world aviation operations. The authors disclaim any liability for personal injury or death resulting from misuse of this material.

Grading Criteria

Controllers will be graded during each session with a mentor or instructor. These evaluations are designed using Competency-Based Training and Assessment (CBTA) principles to ensure that controllers are progressing in both skills and knowledge.

The specific grading methods and criteria is defined in the Arabian vACC Training Policy.

Theoretical Course

The following list outlines the theoretical topics covered in the S2 Rating course available on the Moodle platform.

(Draft in Progress)

Required Reading

In addition to the Moodle course, students shall read the following documentation in preparation for the practical training phase.

Foundations

vMATS Part 1

  • Chapter 1
  • Chapter 2
  • Chapter 3.1
  • Chapter 3.2
  • Chapter 4.1
  • Chapter 4.2.4
  • Chapter 4.2.5
  • Chapter 4.4
  • Chapter 5.1
  • Chapter 5.4
  • Chapter 5.5
  • Chapter 6

vMATS Part 2

  • Chapter 13
  • Chapter 14
  • Chapter 18

Aerodrome SOP

Specific SOP for the student's designated training aerodrome.

Training Phases

Phase 1: Basic Simulator Training

During this phase, students will complete 2–3 SweatBox sessions. These sessions provide the opportunity to practice all the required skills for Tower (TWR) within the Arabian vACC. Training will take place on the SweatBox server in a one-to-one environment with a mentor. Mentoring sessions at this stage will focus primarily on the practical application of controlling techniques, ensuring students can effectively translate theoretical knowledge into operational performance.

Self-Study

Students are expected to arrive at each session with a solid understanding of the relevant theory.

  • If a student lacks the required pre-requisite knowledge, the session may be concluded early or rescheduled.
  • Being well-prepared allows students to gain the maximum benefit from each session while also ensuring that mentors’ time is used effectively.

The level of self-study required in this block will be significantly greater than in the previous one. Although the exact time commitment will vary between individuals, students should plan to dedicate approximately an equal amount of time to self-study as to mentoring sessions.

👉 For example: for every 1.5-hour mentoring session, students should spend around 1.5 hours reviewing material, consolidating knowledge, and preparing for the next session.

Phase 2: Consolidation & Network Practice

During this phase, students will take part in multiple one-to-one mentoring sessions aimed at consolidating the skills developed in Phase 1, with a particular focus on applying them to live network traffic. Mentors will tailor the content of these sessions to the individual student’s strengths and areas for improvement.

For students who actively engage in sessions and maintain consistent self-study, this phase is expected to require 3 to 5 sessions.

Solo Validation: Tower

As students approach the final stage of training, they may be granted a Solo Tower Validation.
This is a time-limited endorsement that authorises the student to control independently on the tower position for which they are training.

  • Each validation is issued for a maximum of 30 days from the mentoring session in which it was recommended.
  • Across the entire tower training programme, a student may hold up to 90 days of solo validation in total.

Self-Study

During this phase, self-study remains highly important.
By this stage, students are expected to already have a solid understanding of:

  • All theoretical material required for S2 training.
  • The designated vMATS Part 1 & Part 2 content.
  • The Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for their assigned aerodrome.

Self-study at this point should primarily focus on keeping knowledge current and reviewing any areas of difficulty identified during previous mentoring sessions.

Pre-CPT Check

The Pre-CPT check, as outlined in the VATMENA ATC Training Policy, serves as a training checkpoint to assess a student’s readiness before scheduling their practical examination for the relevant rating.

  • The Pre-CPT acts as a mock practical exam, allowing students to demonstrate their skills prior to the official evaluation.
  • It should ideally be conducted on the live network, though the Sweatbox server may be used if necessary.
  • The choice of environment should consider traffic levels at the aerodrome at that time.
  • If the student is deemed ready, the mentor or instructor will forward them to the relevant channel for the official examination.

Learning Objectives

Aeronautical Charts

  • Locate and recognize the following chart types:

    • Aerodrome Chart
    • Aircraft Ground Movement/Parking/Docking Chart
    • Standard Instrument Departure (SID) Chart

  • Identify key features on the above charts, including:

    • Taxiways
    • Location signs
    • Mandatory signs
    • Intermediate Holding Points
    • CAT III holding points
    • Aerodrome Reference Point (ARP)
    • Runway lengths
    • Marked obstacles
    • Taxiway hotspots
    • Aerodrome elevation
    • Communication frequencies

Altimetry

  • Define QNH.
  • Define QFE.
  • Distinguish between QNH and QFE.
  • Correctly issue QNH and QFE to aircraft, using appropriate phraseology—especially when the pressure setting is below 1000 hPa.

Areas of Responsibility

  • Describe in detail the areas of responsibility for:

    • Ground Movement Planner (GMP)
    • Ground Movement Control (GMC)
    • Air Control (AIR)

  • Provide a basic description of the areas of responsibility for:

    • Finals Director (FIN), Approach (APP)
    • Enroute Radar (ACC)

Controller Clients

  • Install and configure EuroScope along with the FIR-specific sector file used within the Arabian FIR.
  • Update the FIR-specific sector file for each AIRAC cycle via AeroNav.
  • Install and configure one of the supported audio clients.
  • Connect to both the VATSIM network and the SweatBox training server.
  • Accurately record relevant information in the departure and arrival list datablocks.

Coordination

  • Explain the purpose of coordination in air traffic control operations.
  • Coordinate effectively with relevant controllers to support the roles of Ground Movement Planner (GMP) and Ground Movement Control (GMC), including but not limited to:
    • Issuing clearances
    • Managing flow restrictions (e.g. MDIs, CTOTs, EOBTs)
    • Handling runway changes
  • Perform a proper handover to, and take-over from, another controller.

Flight Planning

  • State the purpose of a flight plan and how pilots file them.
  • Amend flight plans using EuroScope.
  • Use the UK Standard Route Document (SRD) and UKCP functions to identify and correct invalid routings within the EGTT/EGPX FIR.
  • Allocate initial altitudes and levels in accordance with clearances or SIDs.
  • Verify and correct requested flight levels (RFLs) using the semi-circular rule.
  • State where the semi-circular rule applies in north-south or east-west configurations.
  • Correct RFLs exceeding inter-TMA and FIR restrictions.

Flow Management

  • Explain the purpose of a Calculated Take-Off Time (CTOT).
  • Describe how a CTOT is applied on VATSIM.
  • Explain the purpose of a Minimum Departure Interval (MDI).
  • Sequence aircraft on the ground to minimize departure delays.
  • Understand the benefits of implementing flow control restrictions at aerodromes, including:
    • Reducing congestion on taxiways and at holding points
    • Minimizing the time aircraft spend with engines running and burning fuel
    • Considering the broader implications for en-route airspace

Low Visibility Procedures (LVP)

  • Explain the purpose of Low Visibility Procedures (LVPs) and the minima for their enforcement at their training aerodrome.
  • Describe and practically demonstrate an understanding of the impact of LVPs on aerodrome operations.
  • Modify an ATIS broadcast to indicate that LVPs are in force.

Meteorological Reporting (ATIS, METAR, TAF)

  • Explain the function and purpose of an Automated Terminal Information System (ATIS).
  • Explain the function and purpose of a Meteorological Aerodrome Report (METAR).
  • Explain the function and purpose of a Terminal Aerodrome Forecast (TAF).
  • Set up a combined or split departure/arrival ATIS using vATIS, and broadcast it via both text and voice modalities.
  • Decode basic METARs and TAFs.

Meteorology

  • Provide basic definitions of the following meteorological terms:

    • Wind
    • Temperature
    • Humidity
    • Visibility
    • Pressure

  • Comment on the changes in wind velocity (speed and direction) from the surface up to the 2000ft wind (free winds).

Phraseology & Radiotelephony (R/T)

  • Use the phonetic alphabet appropriately.
  • Correctly apply the readability scale (1-5).
  • Issue instructions in accordance with the phraseology outlined in the Arabian vACC Radiotelephony guide, including:
    • Taxi instructions
    • Level instructions
    • Heading instructions
    • Speed instructions
    • Departure clearances (SIDs and non-standard departure instructions)
    • Instructions to hold short of an active runway
    • SSR operating instructions (squawk codes)
    • Altimeter settings (QNH/QFE)
    • Frequency changes
  • Recognize situations where the use of plain English may be more appropriate than standard radiotelephony (RT) phraseology.

Runway in Use

  • Select an appropriate runway for use—when no AIR controller is present—based on:

    • Surface wind conditions
    • 2000 ft wind (free wind)
    • Local restrictions (e.g. nearby aerodrome operations, preferential runway limits)

  • Describe and practically demonstrate the sequence of actions during a runway change, including:

    • Identifying the last aircraft assigned to the previous runway
    • Identifying the first aircraft assigned to the new runway
    • Re-clearing affected aircraft as necessary

Safety

  • Describe the 'red carpet rule.'
  • Practically apply the 'red carpet rule' when issuing ground movement instructions.

Squawk Codes

  • Explain the purpose of a squawk code.
  • State the purpose of various squawk codes, including:
    • Conspicuity codes
    • Special purpose codes (e.g., 7500, 7600, 7700)
    • Discrete squawk codes

Stand Allocation

  • Select an appropriate stand number for a given aircraft based on its size and operator (airline).
  • Use the EuroScope arrival list and GRplugin to assign stands.

Standard Instrument Departures (SID)

  • Provide a basic definition of a Standard Instrument Departure (SID).
  • Understand the differences between non-RNAV (conventional) and RNAV SIDs.
  • Assign the correct SID based on the filed route.
  • Identify and manage outdated or incorrect SIDs.

Text Communications

  • Communicate effectively with pilots via text.
  • Contact a supervisor using the .wallop command, providing them with the necessary information to resolve an issue.
  • Use the private messaging function in EuroScope.
  • Utilize text aliases effectively.

VFR Traffic

  • Request a VFR circuit and CTR exit/entry clearance from the controller covering the duties of the AIR controller.
  • Explain the purpose of Visual Reference Points (VRPs) and CTR entry/exit lanes, and correctly include them in clearances when appropriate.

Workload Management

  • Prioritize communications effectively.
  • Maintain efficient control during busy periods.
  • Remain calm and professional across all communication media.

Session Plans

Session 1

Session 1
Type Simulator, Sweatbox
Duration 1 - 1.5 Hours
Session Objectives - Define the area of responsibility for the TWR controller, including boundaries with GND and APP.
- Explain and practice issuing takeoff clearances, with emphasis on separation and conditional phraseology.
- Explain and practice issuing landing clearances, including use of conditional clearances.
- Introduce and practice the use of datablocks and scratchpads for traffic management.
- Review flight rules (VFR/IFR) and airspace classification relevant to the aerodrome.
- Apply correct radiotelephony phraseology in accordance with ICAO standards.

Session 2

Session 2
Type Simulator, Sweatbox
Duration 1 - 1.5 Hours
Session Objectives - Practice sequencing traffic for departure and arrival, using appropriate spacing techniques.
- Explain and practice transfer of traffic and handoffs to adjacent units (APP, GND, DEP).
- Issue accurate and timely traffic information to pilots.
- Review altimetry procedures, including QNH/QFE and transition altitude/level.
- Apply meteorological considerations to operations (e.g., reduced visibility, wind shifts).
- Practice handling VFR departures, arrivals, and transits, including coordination with APP where required.
- Explain and practice clearance of non-standard IFR departures.

Session 3

Session 3
Type Simulator, Sweatbox
Duration 1 - 1.5 Hours
Session Objectives - Explain and practice handling missed approaches, including coordination with APP.
- Integrate IFR and VFR traffic within the aerodrome control environment.
- Apply gap strategies to maintain safe spacing and coordinate with APP as required.
- Explain and practice VFR circuits, including sequencing with IFR arrivals/departures.
- Develop situational awareness techniques to manage multiple traffic flows.
- Apply communications priority, ensuring correct handling of urgent, essential, and routine transmissions.

Session 4 & Onwards

Session 4 & Onwards
Type Network, Live
Duration 1 - 1.5 Hours
Session Objectives - Consolidate knowledge of the Tower controller’s area of responsibility and coordination boundaries with GND and APP.
- Demonstrate proficiency in issuing takeoff and landing clearances, including the correct use of conditional clearances.
- Apply consistent use of datablocks and scratchpads to manage traffic.
- Apply correct flight rules and airspace classification in live scenarios.
- Use accurate and professional radiotelephony phraseology.
- Sequence traffic effectively for departures and arrivals, maintaining safe spacing.
- Conduct traffic handoffs and transfers in a timely and accurate manner.
- Provide clear and relevant traffic information to pilots.
- Apply correct altimetry and meteorological procedures during operations.
- Manage VFR departures, arrivals, and transits, including coordination with APP.
- Handle non-standard IFR departures and adapt to pilot requests.
- Apply correct procedures for missed approaches in coordination with APP.
- Integrate IFR and VFR traffic, including use of gap strategies.
- Sequence and manage VFR circuits alongside IFR traffic.
- Demonstrate strong situational awareness in a busy traffic environment.
- Apply correct communications priority, ensuring urgent and essential messages are handled first.
- Show readiness to control independently, consolidating all previous objectives in a live network environment.