| Air France Virtual Airlines
WATER COOLER | Online Flying |
Fear and Loathing on VATSIM - Newbie Anxiety! |
Kent Harpham
DVA8269
Captain, B777-200
Joined on January 28 2010
Western Canada
89 legs, 249.6 hours
88 legs,
245.3 hours ACARS
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Post created on March 02 2010 21:42 ET
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Hello Everyone! First of all, let me say I am extremely interested in "attempting" to fly online. Second, I have never done so before. I haven't actually done so yet because quite frankly, it scares the &^$% out of me! I get this feeling I'll immediately embarass myself, do something really lame, annoy someone (worse make them angry), have some stupid technical issue and so on, and so forth. First, I thought I was just uninformed, so I read all the manuals and took trips through the watercooler and such - which seemed to make my VATSIM anxieties worse! There seems to be a million ways to screw up and I'm just not a really big fan of screwing up!
Anyway, it also seems that as much as I would so very much get involved in the online flying community, I'm being held back by the fear that I will royally screw something up. I absolutely love flying and making flight plans, learning endlessly and so on, but for some reason I just can't seem to take the next step into flying online. Help!
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Luke Jones
DVA7633
First Officer, A330-300
Joined on August 07 2009
Double Century Club
Online Century Club
"Always under correct yourself"
Minneapolis, MN USA
293 legs, 627.7 hours
107 legs,
225.5 hours online
277 legs,
591.6 hours ACARS
30 legs,
61.5 hours event
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Post created on March 02 2010 22:05 ET
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Trust me, it is not that bad if you have done your research. After looking at your Flight Plans you have filed I can see that you fly direct GPS. I know that you can not do that on the live network. You might want to learn how to create a legit flight plan before atempting online flying. Many DVA pilots here are ATCs on VATSIM (including myself) and would be more than happy to help you if you have any questions on VATSIM operations and such.
If you want any help feel free to email me at deltavaluke@yahoo.com
Good luck and I hope to see you on VATSIM soon.
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Vincenzo Musumeci
DVA3794
Senior Captain, B747-400
Joined on December 03 2006
Online Double Century Club
Six-Pack Club
"'ndrangheta rules....."
New Hyde Park, NY USA
745 legs, 1,754.9 hours
538 legs,
1,145.5 hours online
675 legs,
1,570.0 hours ACARS
156 legs,
321.7 hours event
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Post created on March 02 2010 22:07 ET
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Don't let the fear of screwing up take over you, and even if you do screw up what is the big deal !
Just start for the very first few flights at NOT busy airport and let the controller know that you are a newbie, there are plenty of good controllers willing to help.
good luck and blue skies ! 
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Phillip Brown
DVA7964
First Officer, MD-11
Joined on November 14 2009
Century Club
"Bring back RNZAF combat wing!!!"
NZ
120 legs, 180.1 hours
22 legs,
20.7 hours online
116 legs,
173.1 hours ACARS
1 legs,
2.2 hours event
140 legs, 205.8 hours total
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Post created on March 02 2010 22:18 ET
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Ok we were all in your place once unpon a time, first off chose somewhere small go to KCVG like i did the controllers out there a re very easy to work with, you can find me out there somedays so if i catch you there i'll help.
Start with small aircraft on small routes E.G KCVG-KLEX in a ATR-72-500 or KCVG-KIND.
In the FSINN or Squarkbox flight report add "newbie" or something in the pilot comments as well as DVA.org and No SID/STARS just so it makes it easier for you, get the controller to speck slowley and clearly.
When you first contact start with this: Delta 8269 is ready to copy IFR to ......... , he might want to clear a few things up with you then he will say Delta 8269 cleared to ...... via ...... expect ...... then on too ....... squawk .......
You should be writing that down when he (or she) is saying that, you repeat what he says and turn your transponder to the squawk told.
Thats only the start i want go further cause the post will be too long.
When you get pushback clearnce only back up, don't start taxing like i did!
If in doubt ask! if your still worried E-mail me and i'll set a time we can met up and i'll go stage by stage with you.
There meny things about it heres mine.
http://www.deltava.org/thread.do?id=0x157f9
Hope this helps!
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Dixon Hurst
DVA8025
Captain, B727-200
Joined on November 26 2009
Century Club
Online Century Club
"DicAir no movie no meal no problem"
Pickering, ON Canada
180 legs, 239.6 hours
105 legs,
132.8 hours online
178 legs,
237.4 hours ACARS
3 legs,
5.4 hours event
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Post created on March 02 2010 22:36 ET
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Never be afraid to ask for help. "Requesting vectors to..." will help when in the air. Also, if you get lost touring around the airport looking for the rwy, "Asking for a progressive taxi" will get you where you want to go on the ground. Most of the fine folks at VATSIM are quite helpful and patient for newbies.
Dixon HurstCaptain, B727-200
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Scott Bradley
DVA7956
Captain, B737-800
Joined on November 05 2009
Northeastern United States
99 legs, 175.9 hours
73 legs,
136.4 hours online
98 legs,
174.2 hours ACARS
32 legs,
63.8 hours event
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Post created on March 02 2010 22:50 ET
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Kent, You could ease into it by picking an airport that has controllers, and go to one that does not. That way you don't get overloaded. The taking off part is much different than the arriving part. PHX seems to always have contollers, and SLC does not - so that might be a good route. Regarding taxi - and this is what I learned about myself. Until I started to fly on line I sort of could see the Airport diagram as a bunch of taxiways with lots of letters and numbers. I sort of glossed over them. Now, you want to study them. To do this, use ctrl-S or F12/F11 to get a birds eye view of the airport. Then zoom in/out and look where you are relative to the airport diagram. You can figure the path that ground will give you to get to a runway. It makes it really easy to write it down (when they give yuo the route to the runway) and follow it. Although I mentioned that the taking off and arriving part are different, they do share the taxi phase. Early on I would arrive at the airport and think wow that was great, then realize I have to get to the terminal. So you have to plan ahead to include where you are when you pull off the runway. Go for it - it is a blast - and so far so good when it comes to controllers - my experience says they are very nice and helpful.
Scott BradleyCaptain, B737-800
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Dean Shultz
DVA2701
Captain, B737-800
PPL
Joined on November 21 2005
Online Double Century Club
Triple Century Club
"Politcally correct for teen members"
Wasilla, AK USA
330 legs, 922.2 hours
309 legs,
871.0 hours online
309 legs,
876.6 hours ACARS
15 legs,
31.6 hours event
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Post created on March 02 2010 22:55 ET
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Just go here for your route. http://flightaware.com/statistics/ifr-route
Everyone started somewhere. Just make sure you know how to actually fly the plane and not just have the autopilot do everything. If you don't know how to go direct a VOR, for example, then you might want to brush up on your navigation skills.
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Neil Sarna
DVA7620
First Officer, B767-300
Joined on July 21 2009
"Im a HighFlyer"
NJ USA
44 legs, 72.6 hours
36 legs,
61.2 hours online
41 legs,
66.7 hours ACARS
7 legs,
16.4 hours event
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Post created on March 02 2010 23:31 ET
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Come out to KABE I control there and it is almost always staffed. It's a small airport but good for planes like c172 and even maybe even 737's. Email me for any help u need as I fly online for almost all of my flights.
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Anthony Piasecki
DVA950
Senior Captain, B737-800
DISPATCHER
Joined on November 19 2002
Online Double Century Club
Millenium Club
Million Mile Club
"Houston, We have a Problem"
Nazareth, PA USA
1,185 legs, 2,795.7 hours
1,122 legs,
2,637.3 hours online
862 legs,
1,899.4 hours ACARS
195 legs,
450.8 hours event
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Post created on March 03 2010 00:26 ET
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ABE is not a Small airport We have an International rating, heck even AF1 was here twice LOL......We have MD80's and 90's there every now and then an A320, 757. But yep it's a fun place to be 
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Noah Bryant
DVA2025
Captain, MD-11
Joined on November 27 2004
Century Club
Western United States
195 legs, 663.4 hours
18 legs,
72.2 hours online
157 legs,
577.5 hours ACARS
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Post created on March 03 2010 01:34 ET
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Kent- I am a VATSIM controller/instructor.
I would be happy to assist you with your first flight on VATSIM, we could make it a nice and easy one (away from busy airports) and I can talk you through it if you like.
If interested, please email me: noah(at)denartcc(dot)org (this goes for anyone else too)
Either way, I know it can be intimidating at first but please dont be afraid of screwing up (because you WILL screw up, just like everyone one of us does).
As a controller the only time I really get slightly annoyed at pilots is not when the mess somethign up, but when they dont pipe up and say that they dont understand an instruction or file a flight plan and really have no idea how to actually fly it.
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Mark Salter
DVA3787
Assistant Chief Pilot, CRJ-200
PPL
E-MAIL
Joined on December 01 2006
Online Century Club
Double Century Club
"Small planes don't make small brains"
Southeastern United States
222 legs, 434.9 hours
155 legs,
326.4 hours online
189 legs,
375.2 hours ACARS
37 legs,
76.9 hours event
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Post created on March 03 2010 07:29 ET
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I see you're registered with VATSIM. Try connecting on the ground and observing the operations to get a feel for phraseology and such.
When you're confident you can fly a plane safely while doing some multitasking, you'll want to fly where traffic is at a minimum. ATC is more willing to be helpful if you're the only guy in the airspace. Put this in the Remarks section of your flight plan. You may want to get a headset as texting will be a bit complex for a beginner.
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Jack Urie
DVA6695
Captain, MD-88
Joined on November 26 2008
Century Club
Online Century Club
"We are....Penn State"
Phoenixville, PA USA
153 legs, 206.0 hours
108 legs,
149.6 hours online
149 legs,
200.2 hours ACARS
11 legs,
20.0 hours event
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Post created on March 03 2010 14:33 ET
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Don't sweat it Kent. If I can do it, you certainly can! For your first flight, stick a "newbie, first VATSIM flight" message in the comments section. ATC almost never gets mad. I've seen pilots ignore instructions on something as simple as turning to a new heading, and the ATC guy just calmly repeats the instructions again and again until the pilot gets it right.
Good advice in this thread, so I won't repeat it. Just don't try flying into JFK on a weekend or any airport that is hosting an event. Use Servinfo to guage traffic.
I second the ABE controller--very nice, relaxed place to fly out of. Try a KABE KPIT run when KABE has TWR, DEP and CTR on, and KPIT is empty except for maybe CTR.
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Kent Harpham
DVA8269
Captain, B777-200
Joined on January 28 2010
Western Canada
89 legs, 249.6 hours
88 legs,
245.3 hours ACARS
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Post created on March 03 2010 14:41 ET
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Hello again Everyone!
It still all seems very daunting although I very much appreciate the support - a lot of feedback from my post here and I wish to thank you all.
Yes, I can hand fly my aircraft from takeoff to landing. I can also file an actual flightplan without using GPS direct. I'm also very studious, I pay attention to small details and would have all my charts neatly at hand, etc. Unfortunately I'm a bit of a perfectionist and can get extremely frustrated with myself, start swearing to myself and generally have a bad time when I'm not doing things right. I'm also a "people person", love working in teams and my favorite part of VATSIM (outside of flying) would be sharing the skies with all of you guys, getting involved in events and so on.
So, with that said, sometime when I actually build up the courage I'll file a legitimate flight plan, start somewhere small, park at the "hangar", pick my nose and listen to what you guys are doing - hopefully I won't blow it just sittin' there. I know I'll have a lot of fun once I actually do it, but getting around to jumping in and actually doing it is a real trick here. The irony is that as much as I want to get onto VATSIM, I find myself rolling my eyes, throwing up my hands and avoiding it altogether. I almost get the feeling I'm missing something. Balls?
Thanks again to y'all for the input.
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Matthew Kerby
DVA8105
First Officer, B747-400
Joined on December 20 2009
"Are you gangsters? No we are Russian"
????? ??????, ??????
89 legs, 285.1 hours
79 legs,
268.7 hours online
88 legs,
283.3 hours ACARS
1 legs,
3.3 hours event
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Post created on March 03 2010 15:23 ET
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The first time I tried to fly online I just sat there and listened and I was scared to talk. Finally the contoller noticed me just sitting there and asked me if I was ok. I told him I was new and he told me to take my time. Anyways. If you've ever even used default FS ATC its not much harder, just get ur clearance, read back the important stuff (not altimeters and such). I won't go on further because obviously a lot of people have offered their help already and its more than enough.
I'm very comfortable flying online but even I make mistakes sometimes. Last week I was in Manchester flying to Atlanta, and, even though I lived in England for 3 years and never had any problems, it was really hard to understand his accent And it threw me off when he said QNH instead of ALT.
Long story short, you're always going to have curveballs thrown at you no matter how good you get there will always be surprises.
Just get out there and start now! You won't regret it and after you make your first landing with ATC you're not even going to want to wait to shut your engines down t try it again and load another flight.
Matthew KerbyFirst Officer, B747-400
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Nicholas Carpenter
DVA5929
Captain, B747-400
Joined on May 10 2008
"Psalm 89:1-2"
New Braunfels, TX USA
76 legs, 337.2 hours
64 legs,
311.6 hours online
73 legs,
319.5 hours ACARS
4 legs,
8.2 hours event
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Post created on March 03 2010 15:27 ET
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If you are having a hard time understanding ATC be sure to uncheck "simulate VHF transmission" in squawkbox. Believe me. I learned this the hard way!
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Neil Sarna
DVA7620
First Officer, B767-300
Joined on July 21 2009
"Im a HighFlyer"
NJ USA
44 legs, 72.6 hours
36 legs,
61.2 hours online
41 legs,
66.7 hours ACARS
7 legs,
16.4 hours event
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Post created on March 03 2010 15:59 ET
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Anthony Piasecki wrote:ABE is not a Small airport We have an International rating, heck even AF1 was here twice LOL......We have MD80's and 90's there every now and then an A320, 757. But yep it's a fun place to be :)
LOL sorry anthony I was just saying compared as to starting out vatsim at busy places like JFK or LAX it would be better to start out at ABE cuz it's a bit more peaceful so to speak. Btw I'm a new controller there and working towers jfk controlling
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Dean Shultz
DVA2701
Captain, B737-800
PPL
Joined on November 21 2005
Online Double Century Club
Triple Century Club
"Politcally correct for teen members"
Wasilla, AK USA
330 legs, 922.2 hours
309 legs,
871.0 hours online
309 legs,
876.6 hours ACARS
15 legs,
31.6 hours event
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Post created on March 03 2010 16:55 ET
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| Kent, from a RW controller... pilots make mistakes all the time. Controllers make mistakes... but not as much. I find that a lot of people on VATSIM strive for realism without even knowing what happens in the real world. Just log on, spectate for a while, then go and have fun.
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Nicholas Taylor
DVA7373
First Officer, B747-400
Joined on May 31 2009
"What'r you doin!?"
Southeastern United States
63 legs, 171.2 hours
23 legs,
69.0 hours online
58 legs,
136.8 hours ACARS
2 legs,
3.1 hours event
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Post created on March 03 2010 19:11 ET
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Everyone makes mistakes, you will, I will (even as an instructor), and the next guy will. I was providing traffic to one of my ATC students and would you know what? I tried to land and had forgot to take off the autothrottle so I declared a go around and tried again. Mistakes happen, the best thing about VATSIM is that it's a learning environment, everyone is there to help each other if need be.
Nicholas TaylorFirst Officer, B747-400
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Jeff Popoviz
DVA6399
Captain, B777-200
Joined on December 19 2007
Century Club
Tel Aviv, Israel Israel
152 legs, 596.5 hours
73 legs,
346.6 hours online
141 legs,
549.6 hours ACARS
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Post created on March 03 2010 21:37 ET
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ABE doesn't compare to PHL
If you want the best in the biz (in my opinion) come to the Philadelphia Airport (KPHL), when the staff is online- they rock!
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Kent Harpham
DVA8269
Captain, B777-200
Joined on January 28 2010
Western Canada
89 legs, 249.6 hours
88 legs,
245.3 hours ACARS
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Post created on March 03 2010 22:09 ET
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Hey Everyone again!
I really appreciate all the input and even the watercooler is a razz!
I'll have to break down and say all of you guys are right - I should quit being such a freakin' chicken-&%$# and get on VATSIM without further whining or delay. I'll give it a try tomorrow and hopefully I won't get slapped down for the dirty rotter that I am. By the looks of it I should draw up a flight plan from a KABE departure to? Any suggestions? But then again, Jeff P. says I should start at KPHL. Whatever is going to be the easiest and small potatoes would be best. Anything past the basics of VATSIM is just going to freak me out! Thanks again to y'all.
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Phillip Brown
DVA7964
First Officer, MD-11
Joined on November 14 2009
Century Club
"Bring back RNZAF combat wing!!!"
NZ
120 legs, 180.1 hours
22 legs,
20.7 hours online
116 legs,
173.1 hours ACARS
1 legs,
2.2 hours event
140 legs, 205.8 hours total
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Post created on March 03 2010 23:02 ET
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Don't really worry about SID's and STARS etc cause it will make it harder, people tend to stick to the places where they first started (like i did) then slowly start somewhere else, i say this cause if your still unsure, raw etc the controller knows what you mean and will correct you, i still have to get the controller to repeat the squawk code, just for some marketing, KIND usely just has the one controller and has maybe two planes ever at one time, remember there will be almost ALWAYS a delta pilot in your area.
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Logan Lynch
DVA6377
Captain, MD-88
Joined on September 11 2008
Century Club
Online Century Club
Eagle Mountain, UT USA
143 legs, 218.7 hours
127 legs,
196.3 hours online
132 legs,
205.0 hours ACARS
6 legs,
11.0 hours event
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Post created on March 03 2010 23:11 ET
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Kent,
I control for ZLC. Many of us here use KSLC as our hub and I'm on controlling quite a bit and would be more than willing to help you out. Shoot me an e-mail if you have any questions about procedures (SID's, STAR's, etc) for Salt Lake City. logan.lynch32@gmail.com
Look forward to seeing you in Salt Lake!
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Anthony Piasecki
DVA950
Senior Captain, B737-800
DISPATCHER
Joined on November 19 2002
Online Double Century Club
Millenium Club
Million Mile Club
"Houston, We have a Problem"
Nazareth, PA USA
1,185 legs, 2,795.7 hours
1,122 legs,
2,637.3 hours online
862 legs,
1,899.4 hours ACARS
195 legs,
450.8 hours event
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Post created on March 04 2010 00:46 ET
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Neil Sarna wrote:
Anthony Piasecki wrote:ABE is not a Small airport We have an International rating, heck even AF1 was here twice LOL......We have MD80's and 90's there every now and then an A320, 757. But yep it's a fun place to be :)
LOL sorry anthony I was just saying compared as to starting out vatsim at busy places like JFK or LAX it would be better to start out at ABE cuz it's a bit more peaceful so to speak. Btw I'm a new controller there and working towers jfk controlling
No worry Neil, Just throwing in some Pa Dutch Humor
Kent Don't sweat it, it's not all that bad, Like everyone states, grab a small airport where there is some on line activity and text the controller tell him its the first time , Be gentle with me Please JSK, but telling them your new, does help, gives them all a heads up. I could right a book on the fun and terrifying times I had when I jumped the ship and started on vatsim. 
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Jack Urie
DVA6695
Captain, MD-88
Joined on November 26 2008
Century Club
Online Century Club
"We are....Penn State"
Phoenixville, PA USA
153 legs, 206.0 hours
108 legs,
149.6 hours online
149 legs,
200.2 hours ACARS
11 legs,
20.0 hours event
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Post created on March 04 2010 10:35 ET
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I'll also give props to the PHL gang--my home airport RW. I like doing the PHL-BOS run on VATSIM, and these guys are great. I've pushed back with 3 other planes on the active taxiways bound for the same runway, and the GND and TWR guys always handle it smoothly.
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Nicholas Taylor
DVA7373
First Officer, B747-400
Joined on May 31 2009
"What'r you doin!?"
Southeastern United States
63 legs, 171.2 hours
23 legs,
69.0 hours online
58 legs,
136.8 hours ACARS
2 legs,
3.1 hours event
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Post created on March 04 2010 13:40 ET
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I suggest KABE - KORD. ZAU is one of the less strict with arrivals, so if you happen to file an incorrect arrival, or none at all, we'll accommodate you. We WON'T make you accommodate us.
Nicholas TaylorFirst Officer, B747-400
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Kent Harpham
DVA8269
Captain, B777-200
Joined on January 28 2010
Western Canada
89 legs, 249.6 hours
88 legs,
245.3 hours ACARS
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Post created on March 06 2010 17:18 ET
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Hey Everyone!
Now this is getting out of hand. Today I tried VATSIM and I must be a complete moron when it comes to this. I took some advice by email for the route KMGM - KSHCV. I filed the plan (had no intention of flying it and put in the comments "Newbie - Observing Only"). I followed the manual to the best of my knowledge, opened ServoInfo, etc. I started the flight and sat there in my parking spot like a compete idiot. I couldn't access ServoInfo from my cockpit and basically I had no clue what to do after that except sit there, go back to the online manual which again was of no help - and then the frustration set in - I couldn't tell if something was working properly, or not working properly, or nothing really. I disconnected and ended the flight and did some traffic patterns around CYEG.
All I wanted to do is relax, sit back, pick my nose and OBSERVE. I couldn't even do that properly and I'm getting tired of coming into the water cooler to whine to you guys and humiliating myself over something I feel I should be able to figure out! Is there no step-by-step, point-to-point guide I can use to see if things are working and know if I'm doing something right or wrong? All I want to do is observe.
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Scott Bradley
DVA7956
Captain, B737-800
Joined on November 05 2009
Northeastern United States
99 legs, 175.9 hours
73 legs,
136.4 hours online
98 legs,
174.2 hours ACARS
32 legs,
63.8 hours event
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Post created on March 06 2010 17:46 ET
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If you are going to sit and observe, you need to go to a busy airport, but first you need to get ServoInfo working so you can see where all the action is. If you have FSINN you are seeing ATC? Go to SEA - they are hopping right now.
Scott BradleyCaptain, B737-800
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Cedric Graham
DVA7679
Captain, CRJ-200
Joined on August 21 2009
Northeastern United States
14 legs, 18.2 hours
13 legs,
16.5 hours ACARS
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Post created on March 07 2010 18:18 ET
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Right now is the perfect time to observe at LAX. Just sit in and listen to all channels. I just started flying on VATSIM 2 weeks ago. I used to logon, but never did anything because I was scared. The anxiety goes away when you know exactly what to expect. What to say, what to readback, etc. If you need help with that just ask
Cedric GrahamCaptain, CRJ-200
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Andrew Rogers
DVA1855
Senior Captain, B777-200
PPL
Joined on August 28 2004
Double Century Club
"Life Begins @ Vmc Life Ends @ Vne+1"
ME USA
230 legs, 1,376.6 hours
65 legs,
342.1 hours online
132 legs,
842.5 hours ACARS
6 legs,
43.0 hours event
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Post created on March 07 2010 20:18 ET
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Nicholas Taylor wrote:
I suggest KABE - KORD. ZAU is one of the less strict with arrivals, so if you happen to file an incorrect arrival, or none at all, we'll accommodate you. We WON'T make you accommodate us.
I really don't know many US Centers that are real strict with the arrivals, although I haven't flown with most of them in awhile... but when I was USA staff we were more focused with expanding our controllers abilities then making pilots fly through hoops...
Kent Harpham wrote:
Hey Everyone!
Now this is getting out of hand. Today I tried VATSIM and I must be a complete moron when it comes to this. I took some advice by email for the route KMGM - KSHCV. I filed the plan (had no intention of flying it and put in the comments "Newbie - Observing Only"). I followed the manual to the best of my knowledge, opened ServoInfo, etc. I started the flight and sat there in my parking spot like a compete idiot. I couldn't access ServoInfo from my cockpit and basically I had no clue what to do after that except sit there, go back to the online manual which again was of no help - and then the frustration set in - I couldn't tell if something was working properly, or not working properly, or nothing really. I disconnected and ended the flight and did some traffic patterns around CYEG.
All I wanted to do is relax, sit back, pick my nose and OBSERVE. I couldn't even do that properly and I'm getting tired of coming into the water cooler to whine to you guys and humiliating myself over something I feel I should be able to figure out! Is there no step-by-step, point-to-point guide I can use to see if things are working and know if I'm doing something right or wrong? All I want to do is observe.
Hey don't get discouraged! Flying online is a lot of fun, but there is a nice learning curve to it, what you need to do is get servinfo working and find a really busy airport with both pilots and controller. Then you set your self up at the gate, connect, and tune your radios to one of the controller's frequencies. at that point you should be able to hear what is going on with that controller.
If you haven't already, take a look at http://www.vatsim.net/prc/ it is a really detailed "guide" to what you should know when flying online.
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Bill Mattson
DVA8327
Captain, B757-200
Joined on February 17 2010
Western United States
17 legs, 27.3 hours
16 legs,
26.3 hours online
15 legs,
23.2 hours ACARS
5 legs,
12.1 hours event
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Post created on March 09 2010 17:30 ET
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Kent, Please, please get with Noah. He is one of the most patient men I've met yet on VATSIM (and one of the most knowledgable as well!) Noah can get you started right. I suggest that you email him and set up a time that's convenient for both of you. Then have him help you get on Teamspeak or RW to be able to discuss things face-to-face so to speak without actually being on VATSIM.
I was terrified the first few times I got on VATSIM and flew online. I'm alot like you in that I want to do things right the first time. Now, I still make mistakes but they are getting smaller and smaller and longer between. Also, my flying has improved tremendously due to the fine controllers you'll find all over VATSIM in the U.S. They want us to succeed not fail. Take heart my friend and I look forward to seeing you on VATSIM.
Bill MattsonCaptain, B757-200
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Noah Bryant
DVA2025
Captain, MD-11
Joined on November 27 2004
Century Club
Western United States
195 legs, 663.4 hours
18 legs,
72.2 hours online
157 legs,
577.5 hours ACARS
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Post created on March 09 2010 19:14 ET
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Thank you Bill, thatt means a lot to me.
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Daniel Haro
DVA5259
First Officer, B767-300
Joined on November 15 2007
"J'aime l'aviation et Alizée Jacotey!"
Western United States
41 legs, 64.0 hours
5 legs,
9.1 hours online
39 legs,
60.1 hours ACARS
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Post created on March 09 2010 20:24 ET
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It is not hard at all I barely began my online flying hours and I've had a couple of mistakes but nothing huge. Just make sure you are well prepared before going online. Have all charts at hand, make sure you recite what your about to say before saying it into the mic and have a pen or pencil and paper at hand.
I myself use notecards when I fly to log important details, if you can't hear the controller ask for text or ask them to repeat it nicely. Most controllers wont have a problem and letting them know that you're new will let them know what to expect. I feared it at first as well because I honestly was not used to ATC phraseology, after a couple of days of study I comprehended everything to succesfully fly online.
Check my logbook for details.
-Daniel
Daniel HaroFirst Officer, B767-300
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Michael Brown
DVA3196
Captain, MD-11
PPL, COMM
Joined on June 03 2006
Quadricentenary Club
Online Double Century Club
"www.pitchpowertrim.com"
Anaheim, CA USA
442 legs, 722.7 hours
215 legs,
379.5 hours online
406 legs,
660.5 hours ACARS
66 legs,
147.4 hours event
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Post created on March 09 2010 22:54 ET
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Log on in some busy airspace and just listen for a while. You'll pick it up in no time.
Also, visit this: http://www.vatsim.net/prc/
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J.T. Coston
DVA4069
Assistant Chief Pilot, B757-200
PPL
Joined on February 18 2007
Online Double Century Club
Quinticentenary Club
"War Eagle!"
Southeastern United States
581 legs, 1,893.8 hours
419 legs,
970.6 hours online
513 legs,
1,616.0 hours ACARS
24 legs,
57.2 hours event
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Post created on March 10 2010 13:37 ET
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Kent, please send me an email letting me know when you are available. I can get on skype or something with you and I will have you flying correctly on VATSIM in no time.
You can find my email under my Pilot profile, I look forward to hearing from you.
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Cedric Graham
DVA7679
Captain, CRJ-200
Joined on August 21 2009
Northeastern United States
14 legs, 18.2 hours
13 legs,
16.5 hours ACARS
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Post created on March 11 2010 03:08 ET
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Well what I did to observe, was look on servinfo, or squakbox, and see what ATC is on. If ground is on, tune in to ground to see whats going on. Same for ATC above ground. You don't have to say anything, just look on the squakbox menu to see the freq the ATC is on, unless your using FSINN, which I don't know how that works...
Cedric GrahamCaptain, CRJ-200
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Logan Lynch
DVA6377
Captain, MD-88
Joined on September 11 2008
Century Club
Online Century Club
Eagle Mountain, UT USA
143 legs, 218.7 hours
127 legs,
196.3 hours online
132 legs,
205.0 hours ACARS
6 legs,
11.0 hours event
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Post created on March 11 2010 11:11 ET
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FSInn is basically the same. There is an ATC button on the control panel that lists all active controllers.
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Kent Harpham
DVA8269
Captain, B777-200
Joined on January 28 2010
Western Canada
89 legs, 249.6 hours
88 legs,
245.3 hours ACARS
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Post created on March 14 2010 04:50 ET
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Hey Everyone!
Wow! Thanks for all the input and emails. I know it's crazy, but I'm still a big honkin' chicken &%$#. I'm gonna have to email a few of you guys and set up some times to chat and go over some things. I'll probably have some abstract questions. I've read the manual left and right and it really doesn't seem to help me with the fear - actually, it makes it worse I think. I just want to be the best pilot that I can be and I know that eventually I'll have to get the guts and kahoonahs, get on VATSIM and learn more and get better. Seems like such a major step. I have no idea how you guys did it and it seems with such ease.
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Matthew Kerby
DVA8105
First Officer, B747-400
Joined on December 20 2009
"Are you gangsters? No we are Russian"
????? ??????, ??????
89 legs, 285.1 hours
79 legs,
268.7 hours online
88 legs,
283.3 hours ACARS
1 legs,
3.3 hours event
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Post created on March 14 2010 08:02 ET
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Lol man. Just do it!!
Yesterday I was flying my lvld 767 and for whatever reason the Autopilot didn't cut off at 380 like it was supposed to as I was step climbing. The contoller called me at about 400 and just asked "Whats your altitude so I can update it in your flight plan?"
Then I thanked him for catching it before I stalled No yelling, no getting in trouble, no warning some mods that I was deviating from my flight plan. It happens. Just start at an airport, Like KSEA Is super easy theres 1 taxiway from the gates to 34R or 16L. Start at Ksea and ask for clearance there. There's no way you can mess it up. Just do it. Not sure how much more support you're going to get.
Matthew KerbyFirst Officer, B747-400
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Mark Fetters
DVA4890
Captain, B747-400
Joined on August 22 2007
Six-Pack Club
Online Century Club
Million Mile Club
"Jesus is my co-pilot"
McDonough, GA USA
839 legs, 2,351.8 hours
162 legs,
504.4 hours online
770 legs,
2,177.4 hours ACARS
45 legs,
120.7 hours event
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Post created on March 14 2010 08:53 ET
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We all have to start somewhere. I will say as others have sit in at LAX at night or JFK and listen to what goes on. No one will now what you are doing you might be doing pre-flight but others dont know that.
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Sam Saunders
DVA8296
Captain, B767-300
Joined on February 09 2010
Kingston, ON Canada
76 legs, 139.8 hours
72 legs,
134.3 hours online
74 legs,
136.4 hours ACARS
1 legs,
2.4 hours event
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Post created on March 14 2010 16:00 ET
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I agree with the points above. What I did was fly in and out of relatively quiet airports, and flew short legs to experience under my belt. Another thing is to not panic, everyone else had to fly a first time and would've made mistakes. Its how we learn.
I also notified on Squawkbox that I was new to online flying, in the 'comments/remarks' section when inputting the flight plan. You'll also find that controllers and fellow pilots 99.9% of the time are very understanding and patient.
In short, you'll be absolutely fine!
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Kent Harpham
DVA8269
Captain, B777-200
Joined on January 28 2010
Western Canada
89 legs, 249.6 hours
88 legs,
245.3 hours ACARS
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Post created on March 15 2010 00:43 ET
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Hey Again!
Well, I did it! I had a decent relax over at the LAX parking stalls, picked my nose (figuratively) and listened in to what was going on. Squawkbox was working, ServInfo was working and that was really awesome. LAX tower said I could sit and observe to my heart's content and that's pretty much what I did. May not seem like a whole lot, but that was a pretty big step for me - all the technical/config issues are out of the way now (I think). I had my charts out and could pretty much follow along with everything that was going on - still too chicken to get clearance and fly though. I'll have to drop Noah an email and set up a small flight, get myself off the ground and in the air (and back on the ground again)! Thanks to all of you guys! You've all been real sports through my whining. I guess I'll see how things go from here.
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Nicholas Carpenter
DVA5929
Captain, B747-400
Joined on May 10 2008
"Psalm 89:1-2"
New Braunfels, TX USA
76 legs, 337.2 hours
64 legs,
311.6 hours online
73 legs,
319.5 hours ACARS
4 legs,
8.2 hours event
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Post created on March 15 2010 14:34 ET
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Well good for you and good luck on your first flight. Vatsim opens up a whole new world for flight simming!
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Noah Bryant
DVA2025
Captain, MD-11
Joined on November 27 2004
Century Club
Western United States
195 legs, 663.4 hours
18 legs,
72.2 hours online
157 legs,
577.5 hours ACARS
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Post created on March 15 2010 23:14 ET
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Look forward to it Kent
noah(at)denartcc(dot)org
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Christian Hoff
DVA8387
First Officer, B737-800
Joined on March 04 2010
Western United States
6 legs, 10.8 hours
5 legs,
8.5 hours ACARS
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Post created on March 16 2010 20:37 ET
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does anyone know if KSEA is a busy airport in VATSIM
Christian HoffFirst Officer, B737-800
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Dean Shultz
DVA2701
Captain, B737-800
PPL
Joined on November 21 2005
Online Double Century Club
Triple Century Club
"Politcally correct for teen members"
Wasilla, AK USA
330 legs, 922.2 hours
309 legs,
871.0 hours online
309 legs,
876.6 hours ACARS
15 legs,
31.6 hours event
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Post created on March 16 2010 21:32 ET
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Christian Hoff wrote:
does anyone know if KSEA is a busy airport in VATSIM
Used to be pretty decent. However, I think lately they have hit a lull in controlling. They were on last night for my flight, but usually there is no one there.
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Cedric Graham
DVA7679
Captain, CRJ-200
Joined on August 21 2009
Northeastern United States
14 legs, 18.2 hours
13 legs,
16.5 hours ACARS
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Post created on March 25 2010 02:10 ET
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Nice, Kent. I find myself doing the KLAX-KLAS flight alot considering im still practicing on my landing skills. Its a quick flight, and by the time you get up to crusing alt, your decending in 5 minutes
Cedric GrahamCaptain, CRJ-200
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Kent Harpham
DVA8269
Captain, B777-200
Joined on January 28 2010
Western Canada
89 legs, 249.6 hours
88 legs,
245.3 hours ACARS
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Post created on April 22 2010 00:44 ET
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Hey Again,
As you all can see, I'm still a big chicken. During a DVA Event, is it possible or feasible for me to load up my 737-800, park it and observe y'all on VATSIM, or must I fly and embarrass myself? The flying part I got, the ATC part utterly makes me nervous - or is it just not as severe as I think? Also, does anyone have a chat account in Yahoo? It might be nice for those who are inclined to get together every once in a while to discuss DVA things. If there is an existing "live" forum for us to all interact without being in a private message or on the airfield, please let me know.
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Phillip Brown
DVA7964
First Officer, MD-11
Joined on November 14 2009
Century Club
"Bring back RNZAF combat wing!!!"
NZ
120 legs, 180.1 hours
22 legs,
20.7 hours online
116 legs,
173.1 hours ACARS
1 legs,
2.2 hours event
140 legs, 205.8 hours total
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Post created on April 22 2010 03:03 ET
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Flying an Event as your first online is not a good idea for the fact the controllers will be stressed out more and not have the time too help you out as much.
Just do a flight out of random! i was talking to Patrick Curtis during an event when he asked what heading i was on and found myself diving at the ground at over 550KIAS!....There was no fuss nothing the Controller didn't even know.
Just do it mate!....if theres ATC they WILL help.
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Noah Bryant
DVA2025
Captain, MD-11
Joined on November 27 2004
Century Club
Western United States
195 legs, 663.4 hours
18 legs,
72.2 hours online
157 legs,
577.5 hours ACARS
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Post created on April 22 2010 09:34 ET
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Still waiting to hear from you kent. I'll have your anxiety down to 25% in about 90 minutes
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Rabee Jibren
DVA7329
Captain, A320
Joined on September 04 2008
Double Century Club
"If it's boeing , i am NOT going !"
Middle East
222 legs, 253.0 hours
78 legs,
104.7 hours online
218 legs,
246.3 hours ACARS
3 legs,
6.4 hours event
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Post created on April 22 2010 10:00 ET
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kent dont forget to put in flight plan remakrs section "minimum experience" so ATC will roll easy with you.
If you find me online on ACARS dont hesisitate to call me on private chat to do a flight online, trust me its not as bad as you think 
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Tracy Norris
DVA7636
Captain, L-1011-100
Joined on August 11 2009
Double Century Club
Online Double Century Club
"Uses "Sparkly Eyes" Technique on ATC"
Channelview, TX USA
255 legs, 532.0 hours
242 legs,
508.4 hours online
253 legs,
528.4 hours ACARS
102 legs,
217.2 hours event
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Post created on April 22 2010 11:58 ET
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Kent, good to hear you listened in!
If I come in, see you parked at the gate and picking your nose I'll pop up a private chat and work out a short hop for both of us. DVA pilots take care of their own!
"Experience is the word used to describe the mistakes you made yesterday"
You'll be up and running in no time flat and having the time of your life. Events are a total blast, but better left until you get comfortable on VATSIM.
Speaking of mistakes  , I flew from KMSP to KJFK yesterday for the KLGA-KORF event. Somehow I had it in my head that we were departing JFK and was wondering why everyone was parked 5 miles away (at KLGA - La Guardia). It's pretty humbling (embarrassing?) to have to file and IFR flight plan at 2000 feet to an airport 5 miles away in an L1011 Heavy to correct a mistake that should have been noticed before I departed KMSP. 
After 58 minutes of being routed to every scenic point in New York, I finally got vectored to KLGA where everyone was already long gone. Oh well, a "teachable" moment I guess 
Get online, warts and all and enjoy yourself. I've never laughed so hard at some of the goofs ATC, myself or other pilots have made!
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Nicholas Carpenter
DVA5929
Captain, B747-400
Joined on May 10 2008
"Psalm 89:1-2"
New Braunfels, TX USA
76 legs, 337.2 hours
64 legs,
311.6 hours online
73 legs,
319.5 hours ACARS
4 legs,
8.2 hours event
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Post created on April 22 2010 14:07 ET
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Kent, you may want to get started here: http://pilotcerts.laartcc.org/page/Home
It's easy to do if you can fly (which you say you can) and it will help get you up and running on VATSIM in no time. And it all starts with just a nice 3 circuit pattern around a towered field. I might be able to staff KSBA for you if you let me know your times. I'll walk you through it and you'll be V-01 certified in no time, not to mention a lot more comfortable with ATC!
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Kent Harpham
DVA8269
Captain, B777-200
Joined on January 28 2010
Western Canada
89 legs, 249.6 hours
88 legs,
245.3 hours ACARS
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Post created on April 22 2010 15:58 ET
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Hey Again,
Thanks for that link, Nicholas! Structured flying exams and a ratings "tree" are extremely valuable to me and I learn the most from dynamics such as that - I guess that's why I absolutely love taking DVA check rides and wish there was a different one to take every week or two. Nevertheless, I have that link saved and obviously my first goal is to get my V-01 Rating.
I wouldn't bother you guys with this if I didn't feel it was important to me to get onto VATSIM. I realize that we all make mistakes, but I want to keep those mistakes down to a minimum (even though it seems you guys think mistakes are part of the fun). So, I'm going to clear my slate of current DVA flight assignments, do my 777-200 check ride and then get right on emailing a couple of you guys and start earning my V-01 rating and beyond. Thanks again for that link, Nicholas!
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Nicholas Carpenter
DVA5929
Captain, B747-400
Joined on May 10 2008
"Psalm 89:1-2"
New Braunfels, TX USA
76 legs, 337.2 hours
64 legs,
311.6 hours online
73 legs,
319.5 hours ACARS
4 legs,
8.2 hours event
|
Post created on April 22 2010 18:06 ET
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You're very welcome Kent. If you are registered and feel up to it, I can do the V-01 with you tonight anytime before 9:00 p.m. CST, just let me know though. The exam is only about 15 minutes and I can run it from KSBA, or any other small airport. If you want one that has an easy facility to navigate, and where it would likely be just you and me (if you want it that way) I would recommend KGCN (Grand Canyon National Park). The Airport facility and other charts can be found here. http://www.laartcc.org/airport_charts/KGCN
Just let me know what time.
Hope to see you on VATSIM soon!
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Tracy Norris
DVA7636
Captain, L-1011-100
Joined on August 11 2009
Double Century Club
Online Double Century Club
"Uses "Sparkly Eyes" Technique on ATC"
Channelview, TX USA
255 legs, 532.0 hours
242 legs,
508.4 hours online
253 legs,
528.4 hours ACARS
102 legs,
217.2 hours event
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Post created on April 22 2010 18:17 ET
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Kent, just a quick note to let you know myself and several other DVA pilots will be departing KMSP for KSLC tonight at 6:00pm Central Time if you'd like to join us.
Route will be DWN3 ABR J158 DDY J202 OCS NORDK3
This is an informal re-positioning flight for the SLC event tomorrow, should be easy pickens
Anyone else that would like to join us is also welcome!
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Nicholas Carpenter
DVA5929
Captain, B747-400
Joined on May 10 2008
"Psalm 89:1-2"
New Braunfels, TX USA
76 legs, 337.2 hours
64 legs,
311.6 hours online
73 legs,
319.5 hours ACARS
4 legs,
8.2 hours event
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Post created on April 22 2010 20:43 ET
|
I'm out for tonight, sorry, but if you send me an e-mail, I'll try and set up a session with you.
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Kent Harpham
DVA8269
Captain, B777-200
Joined on January 28 2010
Western Canada
89 legs, 249.6 hours
88 legs,
245.3 hours ACARS
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Post created on April 23 2010 17:46 ET
|
Hey Everyone,
Thanks for the offer and invite Tracy, but I'm still too much of a chicken to join an actual event yet.
I would, however, really like to get my V-01 and maybe V-02 ratings and I'm willing to take the big VATSIM jump - if someone (or more than someone) is willing to meet me at KSNA on Saturday, April 24 at around 2:00 MT. I'm scared out of my tree, but I'm up for the challenge. I'm sure this seems like nothing to some of you guys, but it's honestly freaking me out. It's something that MUST be done though, so I'll give it an honest effort. I'll be sittin' there at the gate, picking my nose in either a white/orange Cessna Skyhawk or a white/blue Mooney Bravo.
If a bunch of you want to show up and hear me say, "Umm and duh," please feel free. If I totally blow it and completely embarrass myself, I suppose I had it comin'. Otherwise, I have to thank you all for the encouragement!
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Kent Harpham
DVA8269
Captain, B777-200
Joined on January 28 2010
Western Canada
89 legs, 249.6 hours
88 legs,
245.3 hours ACARS
|
Post created on April 24 2010 14:38 ET
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It looks as though everyone is busy around this time. If anyone wants to help me out with my first VATSIM flight, please send me an email with various times you could be available for assistance. I'm still very much in anxiety mode and the assistance would be greatly appreciated.
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Alex Deutz
DVA5947
First Officer, B747-400
Joined on May 19 2008
Century Club
Online Century Club
""where do you live?" in the t7."
Marshall, MN USA
191 legs, 926.0 hours
178 legs,
884.5 hours online
150 legs,
645.9 hours ACARS
3 legs,
18.6 hours event
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Post created on April 24 2010 14:41 ET
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if i saw this sooner i would be out there...but ill be over the atlantic right now on vatsim.....
also if you want to see what traffic is online at the moment i would HIGHLY recomend this...its an extremely useful tool.
http://www.metacraft.com/VATSpy/#download
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Kent Harpham
DVA8269
Captain, B777-200
Joined on January 28 2010
Western Canada
89 legs, 249.6 hours
88 legs,
245.3 hours ACARS
|
Post created on April 25 2010 16:50 ET
|
Hey Nicholas,
I would email you and try to set up some times to go for that V-01 cert (and beyond), but your email isn't listed. If you're still interested in assisting me with this, go ahead and email me and we can set up a time.
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Noah Bryant
DVA2025
Captain, MD-11
Joined on November 27 2004
Century Club
Western United States
195 legs, 663.4 hours
18 legs,
72.2 hours online
157 legs,
577.5 hours ACARS
|
Post created on April 28 2010 01:23 ET
|
http://vataware.com/flight.cfm?id=5497087
Great job tonight Kent, we'll see you next time!
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Kent Harpham
DVA8269
Captain, B777-200
Joined on January 28 2010
Western Canada
89 legs, 249.6 hours
88 legs,
245.3 hours ACARS
|
Post created on April 28 2010 01:30 ET
|
Thanks a lot, Noah!
That was scary but ultra fun at the same time! I really have to work on my read-backs when they get lengthy - especially on departures. And you're right - anxiety is around 25% now - well, maybe 30% - but at least it's not at 90% anxiety anymore. Thanks again, Noah, as that was a really good time. Thanks to all of you too for the support! Now I can say I did VATSIM and liked it! Yee Haw!
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Tracy Norris
DVA7636
Captain, L-1011-100
Joined on August 11 2009
Double Century Club
Online Double Century Club
"Uses "Sparkly Eyes" Technique on ATC"
Channelview, TX USA
255 legs, 532.0 hours
242 legs,
508.4 hours online
253 legs,
528.4 hours ACARS
102 legs,
217.2 hours event
|
Post created on April 28 2010 10:23 ET
|
Congrats Kent! It REALLY DOES become easier as time goes by simply because you come to know what to expect.
One of the things that keeps me addicted to the events however, is the unexpected Bad weather at the destination, a late change in landing runways, that missed approach because someone eased onto the runway, etc all make for a "never the same way twice" moment. Good fun indeed!
Keep up the good work!
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Nicholas Carpenter
DVA5929
Captain, B747-400
Joined on May 10 2008
"Psalm 89:1-2"
New Braunfels, TX USA
76 legs, 337.2 hours
64 legs,
311.6 hours online
73 legs,
319.5 hours ACARS
4 legs,
8.2 hours event
|
Post created on April 28 2010 11:26 ET
|
Kent, you've got mail.
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Tommy Hansen
DVA7702
First Officer, B747-400
Joined on August 25 2009
"If it ain't Boeing, I'm not going!"
Scandinavia
59 legs, 121.3 hours
30 legs,
67.0 hours online
48 legs,
88.8 hours ACARS
6 legs,
14.9 hours event
|
Post created on April 28 2010 15:10 ET
|
Congrats,and welcome to the club! You'll be a pro in no time now.
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