ATC Training Policy

Policy Information

Control Details

Type	Syllabus
Revision	01/2025
Effective Date	TBA
Prepared by	Chriss Klosowski - ACCARB2
Approved by	Chris Marriott - ACCARB1 & Suprojit Paul - ACCARB3
Next review date	TBA
Cancelled documents	-

Record of Revisions

Revision Number	Notes	Effective Date
01/2025	Initial Issue	TBA

Scope

This syllabus outlines the structure and learning pathway for students pursuing the S1 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.

Performance Levels

Controllers will be assessed according to their competency and performance in each session. The following performance levels exist:

• Below: The controller's performance is below the expected standard for their current rating or endorsement.
• At: The controller meets the expected standard for their rating or endorsement.
• Above: The controller exceeds the expected standard for their rating or endorsement.

Controllers should aim to be "At" the expected performance level as they progress through their training. If a controller is rated "Below," additional sessions will be required to address and correct the issues identified during training.

Input Required from the Mentor or Instructor

In addition to performance evaluation, controllers will be assessed based on the level of input required from the mentor or instructor during the session. This helps identify the controller's ability to operate independently and effectively. The following input levels are used:

• Constant: The controller requires frequent reminders throughout the session, indicating a need for further development.
• Intermittent: The controller needs occasional reminders, showing progress but still requiring guidance.
• Minor: The controller requires very few reminders, indicating good progress and near independence.
• N/A: The controller requires no reminders, demonstrating full autonomy in their role.

Controllers should strive for "N/A" where no input is required from the mentor or instructor. If a controller is rated as "Constant," additional sessions will be necessary to address gaps in their knowledge or performance.

This grading system helps ensure that controllers receive the support and training they need to meet the required standards for their ratings and endorsements. Continuous feedback and targeted training sessions are crucial for controllers to advance to higher levels of proficiency.

Theoretical Course

The following list outlines the theoretical topics covered in the S1 Rating course available on the Moodle platform.

(Draft in Progress)

Learning Objectives

Aerodrome Movement Area

• Identify and explain the functions of aprons, taxiways, and runways.
• Apply knowledge of local taxiway and apron limitations (e.g., width, runway incursion risks) when issuing ground movement instructions.

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 Software

• 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.

Coding System

• Identify the difference between an ICAO and IATA code.

Flight Planning

• Explain the purpose of a flight plan and how pilots file them.
• Amend flight plans using both EuroScope and the TopSky Flight Plan dialog.
• Use the Arabian vACC Standard Route Database or the VFPC function to identify and correct invalid routings up to the FIR boundary.
• Assign appropriate initial altitudes and levels based on departure instructions (e.g. clearance from APP/ACC or as per a SID).
• Verify and correct requested flight levels (RFLs) in accordance with the semi-circular rule.
• Identify and correct RFLs that exceed bordering FIR cruise level 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

Training Aerodromes

Session Number	Doha-Hamad (OTHH)	Muscat (OOMS)	Sheikh Zayed (OMAA)	Sharjah (OMSJ)

Session 1

Session	1
Type	Simulator, Sweatbox
Duration	1 - 1.5 Hours
Session Objectives	- Verify the controlling software and sector file are correct. - Review the roles and responsibilities of the GMP, GMC, and AIR controllers. - Choose an appropriate runway configuration. - Walk through the aerodrome layout and the standard taxi routes. - Practice the log-on procedure to the network. - Generate a combined or split ATIS via vATIS. - Introduce and explain the use of status blocks and scratch pads. - Explain and practice issuing IFR clearances, focusing on mandatory readback requirements. - Explain and practice issuing pushback and start-up instructions. - Explain and practice applying the red-carpet rule. - Explain and practice issuing taxi instructions. - Define and practice the correct procedure for handing off control to another unit.

Session 2

Session	2
Type	Simulator, Sweatbox
Duration	1 - 1.5 Hours
Session Objectives	- Access the eAIP (if available) and review the various chart types, highlighting their features and usage. - Introduce the basics of altimetry, including definitions of QNH and QFE, and explain where each is applied operationally. - Discuss the roles and responsibilities of adjacent control positions such as AIR, FIN, APP, and ACC. Cover what each position handles, how they are represented in EuroScope, and provide examples of scenarios where coordination is necessary. - Use the VFPC plugin to identify any lateral or vertical flight plan restrictions specific to the aerodrome. - Learn to recognize common errors in flight plans, such as incorrect routings for SIDs, inappropriate requested flight levels (RFLs) for direction of flight, or RFLs that conflict with Letters of Agreement. - Explain and practice stand allocation using GRPlugin, referencing the procedures in the local SOP. - Explain and practice the use of conditional clearances. - Introduce the structure and procedures for issuing VFR clearances for circuit traffic and CTR entry/exit. - Review and consolidate the key objectives covered in previous sessions to reinforce understanding and application.

Session 3

Session	3
Type	Simulator, Sweatbox
Duration	1 - 1.5 Hours
Session Objectives	- Introduce low visibility procedures, where applicable to the aerodrome, and explain the associated local procedures and considerations. - Introduce METARs and TAFs, and practice decoding simple examples to build confidence in interpreting weather reports. - Explain non-standard IFR clearances such as omnidirectional and radar-vectored departures, and provide opportunities to practice issuing them. - Introduce the EuroScope command line, covering the use of aliases, private messaging, and function key shortcuts to improve efficiency. - Consolidate key objectives from previous sessions to reinforce understanding and ensure continuity in training.

Session 4

Session	4
Type	Simulator, Sweatbox
Duration	1 - 1.5 Hours
Session Objectives	- Discuss the purpose of flow management techniques, including the use of CTOTs and MDIs, and provide an introduction to the A-CDM concept. - Explain the operational benefits of implementing flow control measures, particularly in managing demand and maintaining efficiency. - Introduce the application of flow management techniques in high-traffic situations to help maintain orderly and safe operations. - Review the overall objectives of the course and consolidate the student’s knowledge in preparation for the final exam. - In most cases, students should be recommended for their exam at this stage. If it is clear they are not yet ready, conduct one additional consolidation session to address any remaining gaps.