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Filing Guidelines

Step-by-step guide to filing IFR flight plans on VATSIM

Do Not Delete Discontinuities

Most SIDs in the New York ARTCC are radar vectors. This means once you hit the last waypoint in the SID, fly present heading until given radar vectors to your next waypoint. Do not delete discontinuities from your flight plan - they are there intentionally.

1

Check Preferred Routing

Before filing your flight plan, you must check the preferred routing for your departure and arrival airports.

Access Preferred Routes

  1. Visit nyartcc.org/prd
  2. Enter your departure airport (e.g., KJFK)
  3. Enter your arrival airport (e.g., KBOS)
  4. Review the preferred routing displayed

Important: Check Restrictions

Pay close attention to any altitude restrictions and aircraft type restrictions listed for your route. You must adhere to these requirements when filing your flight plan.

2

Choose Your Filing Method

You have two options to file your flight plan on VATSIM:

Option 1: SimBrief

RECOMMENDED FOR BEGINNERS

Use SimBrief for comprehensive flight planning with performance calculations.

Automatic performance calculations (fuel, weights, etc.)
Generates full flight briefing package
Integrates with flight simulator add-ons
Can file directly to VATSIM
Go to SimBrief

Option 2: VATSIM Direct Filing

Alternate

File directly through the VATSIM website using their flight plan form.

Simple, straightforward interface
No additional software needed
Perfect for quick flights
File on VATSIM

Important Information

File at Least 10 Minutes Before Departure

Give yourself and ATC enough time to review and process your flight plan.

Use Correct Aircraft Type

Ensure your aircraft type code matches the aircraft you'll be flying in your simulator.

Double-Check Your Route

Verify your routing matches the preferred routes and includes all required waypoints.

Amendments May Occur

ATC may amend your clearance based on current traffic, weather, or operational needs. Be prepared to accept changes.

Quick Tips

  • Always check NOTAMs for your departure and arrival airports
  • Include your VATSIM CID when filing
  • Fill in remarks section with any special requests or equipment codes
  • If using SimBrief, save your flight plan before connecting to VATSIM
  • Keep a copy of your flight plan handy during your flight
  • Speed: Maximum 250 knots below 10,000 feet MSL
  • Transition Altitude: In the USA, set altimeter to 29.92 above FL180
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