Welcome to Aurora! This guide is designed to get you up and running on the IVAO network in less than 10 minutes. Follow these simple steps to configure your software, download your first sector, and establish your first connection.
If you have not yet done so, you will need to join IVAO to create your personal user account.
Note that this is required only once, and it is valid for both your controller and pilot career!
More specifically, we will show you how to:
- Download, install, and set up the required software.
- Add and load a sector file for your favorite airspace.
- Connect to the IVAO Network ("IVAN").
- Set up an ATIS.
- Obtain further information and training.
¶ 🛠️ Step 1: Download & Install
The first thing you need to do is download our ATC client, AURORA, which will allow you to connect to the network. This can be retrieved from the Software Development Pages.
¶ 🗺️ Step 2: Loading Your First Sector File
Aurora features an integrated download manager. You do not need to look for files on external websites.
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Go to PVD ➔ SECTOR.
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Select IVAO DOWNLOADS
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In the search bar, type the ICAO code of the FIR or the country name of the sector file, then click Download.
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Click Yes in the confirmation dialog.
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Once the download finishes, click Open on the left side of the window.
Verify that the auto-update option is enabled (green).
When a sector file update is available, Aurora will automatically download and update it for you.
Your radar screen will now display the map, coastlines, airspaces, and airports of your chosen region.
¶ 🎛️ Step 3: Quick Settings & Pref Bar
Aurora is HIGHLY customizable. Until you get used to all its functions, we suggest a basic starting point to avoid getting overwhelmed by all the settings.
- Right-click anywhere on the radar screen and select PREF BAR.
A new menu bar will appear at the top of the screen:
- Recommended: Configure your PREF BAR as shown in the image above. A white font indicates that specific option is turned on.
- These settings may vary depending on your local division's sector file presets.
- Each button's specific function is explained in detail here.
¶ Voice & VHF Radio Configuration
Before going online, you must configure your hardware and understand how Aurora manages voice frequencies.
- Navigate to the top-right menu: PVD ➔ SETTINGS ➔ VHF.
- Select your active hardware for MIC Input (Microphone) and Speacker Output (Headphones/Speakers).
- Set your Push-To-Talk (PTT): Click on the PTT assignment box and press your preferred keyboard key.
Microphone Check
Use the built-in loopback test in this menu to verify your voice levels before going live on the network.
¶ 📡 Step 4: Your First Connection
Click the cog-wheel button ⚙️ on the top menu bar to open the connection window.
Connecting as an Observer
We strongly suggest connecting as an Observer (OBS) during your very first connections to the network.
To do this, use your initials followed by _OBS as your callsign (e.g., AB_OBS).
| Field | What to Enter |
|---|---|
| Callsign | Your active station identifier (e.g., AB_OBS, LEMD_S_TWR, LFBO_APP) |
| Connect to ARTIFICE | (Optional / Not Essential) Read more in the Artifice Manual. |
| Connect VOICE | Must be checked if you are controlling a voice position. |
| Server and Voice | The closest geographical server will be automatically selected. You can change it manually if preferred. |
| Hoppie | (Optional / Not Essential) If you wish to use the Datalink System (CPDLC), enter your Hoppie logon code. For more information, check here. |
Click SAVE, then click Connect to go online.
¶ 🎙️ Step 5: ATIS
The most important information about an aerodrome is included in the ATIS (Automatic Terminal Information Service). Weather data (METAR) is fetched and included automatically. You just need to add the active runways and the transition altitude/transition level.
Relevant articles:
Local Procedures
Even though runways are mainly assigned based on wind direction and transition values can be obtained from charts, local real-world procedures might differ. You should always check your local division's standard operating procedures (SOPs) beforehand!
¶ ➡️ Next Steps
Now that you are connected and your frequency is live, it's time to learn how to manage aircraft targets, issue flight level clearances, and coordinate with adjacent sectors.
👉 Proceed to the full Aurora Radar Manual to learn how to manage traffic, use radar labels, and master essential keyboard shortcuts.
Request Training
We strongly recommend requesting official ATC training from your local division. You can submit a request here.