Created by: XU Training Department
Hello, and welcome to the IVAO United Kingdom and Ireland Multi-Country Division! We have put together this interactive getting started guide, which will help explain the steps required to get started as a pilot.
A key part of being a pilot is learning the aircraft you want to fly! Everyone learns in different ways, so depending on your learning style, you may find it useful to start with some of the simulator's inbuilt tutorials. Alternatively, YouTube has lots of useful video tutorials to help you get started with your chosen aircraft IVAO also offers lots of resources for both our pilots and controllers, which can be found here. If you enjoy flying VFR (Visual Flight Rules) within the UK, the CAA's Skyway Code guide is also a fantastic resource.
We have also developed a Moodle course for students looking to take their PP (Private Pilot) exam. This will provide the information needed to know to pass the exam. Our Moodle can be found here
Connecting to the network for the first time can be daunting. You may find it beneficial to listen in to other pilots before connecting for your first flight. You can do this by connecting to the network as an observer. This involves loading up in your selected aircraft at the airfield you want to listen to and selecting the "Connect as Observer" button in the Altitude Pilot Client. You can find online Air Traffic Control (ATC) positions with our online tracker. This can be found here
Once you are feeling confident, You can log on to the live network. If you are new to flying, you may wish to start off with something simple such as VFR circuits. This will allow you to get a feel for the aircraft you are flying and ensure you understand how to safely perform a take-off and landing. It's always a good idea to put a remark in your flight plan to let controllers know that you are new and they will do their best to help you during your first hours online.
Where can I download the Pilot Client
Our new Altitude Pilot Client can be downloaded from the IVAO HQ Website
Where can I find routes?
One of the most common places to get free routes for IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) Flights is SimBrief. You can visit their website here For VFR flight there are a few different options such as Sky Vector, Plan G and Little Nav Map.
Where can I see a list of planned control?
You can see a list of all controller bookings worldwide on the IVAO ATCSS Members who have booked to control in the UK & Ireland, which can be seen on our homepage. Just remember the majority of controllers will simply connect each night for as long as they can. You can see who's online at any given time on our Webeye.
Where can I get support with using the software?
You can get support for all IVAO software on the IVAO Forum / Discord Server. Limited support may also be found on the XU Discord Server.
Does the IVAO XU division offer pilot training?
We currently don’t offer any dedicated pilot training. However, if you have any questions or would like any help with getting started, please email xu-training@ivao.aero, and we will see what support can be provided.
Can I gain IVAO pilot ratings in the division?
Once you feel you are ready to progress, you can improve your rating by taking a series of exams which are designed to test both your skills and knowledge. You are able to apply for these exams through your profile once the minimum rating requirements have been met.
VCAP413 - Phraseology Guide
Discord - Access to XU Division Discord