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, you will learn how to:
- 📥 Software Setup Download, install, and set up the required software
- 🗺️ Sector Loading Add and load a sector file
- 📡 Network Connection Connect to the IVAO Network
- 📻 ATIS Set up an ATIS
- 📚 Advanced Learning Further information and training
¶ 🛠️ Step 1: Download & Install
To begin your journey as an Air Traffic Controller on the IVAO network, you must first download and install our dedicated radar client: AURORA.
¶ 📥 1.1 Downloading the Client
The latest stable executable can be retrieved directly from the official IVAO software repository. Navigate to the Software Development Pages to access the download directory.
Locate the Aurora section within the software matrix, select your operating system architecture, and click the download link to retrieve the setup package.
¶ 💻 1.2 Running the Setup Assistant
Once the zip has finished downloading, extract the installer and follow these steps:
If your operating system displays a "Windows protected your PC" warning block, you can safely click on "More info" and then select "Run anyway". This security prompt appears simply because the Aurora installer is an independent executable not distributed directly through the Microsoft Store.
- License Agreement: Read and accept the IVAO End User License Agreement (EULA) to proceed.
- Desktop Shortcut: You can check the option to create a desktop shortcut for quick access.
- Installation Directory: Choose your installation path.
It is highly recommended to leave the installation path at its default location (
C:\IVAO\Aurora) to ensure smooth write permissions when the client automatically downloads sector files later on.
- Execution: Click Install and wait for the wizard to process. Once completed, click Finish.
¶ 🗺️ 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 Speaker 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 connecting to 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) |
| Hide SUP/ADM rating | (Only Staff) Used by supervisors to hide their rating. |
| Connect to ARTIFICE | (Optional) 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 by clicking on the dropdown icon. |
| Hoppie | (Optional) 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 & Community Support
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.
¶ 👥 Join the Community & Get Help
Controling is much more fun when you are part of the community! If you have questions, want to meet other controllers, or need technical assistance, make use of our official community channels:
- 💬 Official IVAO Discord Server — Join the global network server to chat in real-time with other members and stay up to date with official network announcements.
- 🛠️ Discord Support Tickets — Encountered an unexpected system error, installation crash, or audio bug? Navigate to the support channels inside our official Discord and open a Support Ticket to receive direct, fast assistance from the DevOps and technical staff.
- 🏛️ IVAO Air Traffic Control Forum — The perfect place to read detailed pinning guides, participate in division discussions, and troubleshoot advanced client configurations with senior network members.
We strongly recommend requesting official ATC training from your local IVAO Division. Having a dedicated mentor will help you pass your practical exams and master complex airspace setups. You can submit an official training application directly here.