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Our Rules

Guidelines for Virtual Special Operations Associations (VSOA) and their Members

Permitted Activities

Only Virtual Special Operations Associations (VSOA) and their active members are authorized to participate in these operations:

  • Joint training exercises with other approved VSOAs
  • War games and air combat maneuvers
  • Air-to-air refueling and carrier operations
  • Flying low-level military routes and escort missions
  • Search and rescue operations
  • Firefighting operations
  • Interception/scramble of other aircraft
  • Access to special-use airspace
  • Launch and recovery of space vehicles
  • Air displays (flying displays, races)
  • Flying unmanned aerial vehicles (e.g., Global Hawk)

Training Requirements

Pilots are required to meet the following training standards:

  • Aircraft Familiarization: One hour of VFR training to maintain control of the aircraft, including ATC communication, ground handling, and pattern work.
  • Navigation Exercises: Two hours involving VOR/NDB/DME/GPS systems and flight planning.
  • IFR Navigation: Three hours covering holding procedures, cross-country flight, and missed approaches.
  • Advanced Online Flight Training: Four hours focusing on engine failures, formation flying, and aerial refueling.
  • Military Training Routes: Pilots must demonstrate knowledge of restricted areas and proper procedures for air-to-air refueling routes.
  • Training Records: Must be maintained and presented to VSOD upon request.
  • Fast-track Certification: VSO partners may fast-track certified pilots from other VATSIM-approved VSOs.
  • Pilot Rating Transfers: Military Pilot Ratings are transferrable between Special Operations Partners.