The Three Giants of Online Flight Simulation
If you’ve been flying solo in Microsoft Flight Simulator or X-Plane, you’re missing out on what many consider the most transformative aspect of the hobby: flying with real human air traffic controllers and sharing virtual skies with thousands of other pilots. Three major networks dominate this space—VATSIM, IVAO, and PilotEdge—and each offers a distinctly different experience.
VATSIM: The Largest and Most Established
The Virtual Air Traffic Simulation Network (VATSIM) has been around since 2001 and remains the largest online flying network with over 100,000 active members. Its massive user base means you’ll almost always find staffed airspace somewhere in the world, though coverage varies dramatically by region and time of day.
What makes VATSIM stand out:
- Free to join and use with no subscription fees
- Global coverage with controllers from every continent
- Regular events including cross-the-pond flights and regional fly-ins
- Strict realism requirements—you need to know your procedures
- Pilot ratings system that tracks your progression
The learning curve on VATSIM can be steep. Controllers expect you to understand standard phraseology, read back clearances correctly, and follow instructions without hand-holding. Many new pilots find this intimidating, but there’s a robust training division and most controllers are patient with clearly new voices.
IVAO: Europe’s Favorite Alternative
The International Virtual Aviation Organisation (IVAO) launched in 1998, actually predating VATSIM. While smaller globally, IVAO dominates in certain European regions, particularly France, Spain, and parts of South America.
Key differences from VATSIM:
- Also completely free to use
- Integrated training program with structured exams
- Strong presence in regions where VATSIM coverage is thin
- Division-based organization gives local flavor to each region
- More lenient with beginners in some divisions
IVAO uses its own AURORA client for connection, which some find less polished than VATSIM’s vPilot or xPilot options. However, the network’s training infrastructure is excellent, with clearly defined pathways from student pilot to airline transport pilot rating.
PilotEdge: Professional Quality with a Price Tag
PilotEdge takes a fundamentally different approach. Rather than relying on volunteer controllers covering random airspace, PilotEdge provides guaranteed professional ATC coverage across the southwestern United States during set hours (typically 8 AM to 11 PM Pacific).
What you get with PilotEdge:
- Consistent, predictable coverage every day
- Controllers are trained to FAA standards
- CAT ratings system that tests real-world skills
- Perfect for IFR training and checkride preparation
- No gaps in coverage during operating hours
The catch? PilotEdge costs approximately $19.95/month. For casual simmers, that might seem steep. For student pilots using simulators to supplement real training, or for pilots who want consistent practice, the investment often pays for itself.
Which Network Should You Choose?
Your ideal network depends on what you’re trying to accomplish:
Choose VATSIM if: You want maximum flexibility, global coverage, and don’t mind occasional quiet skies. It’s free, has the largest community, and offers incredible event flying.
Choose IVAO if: You’re in Europe or South America, prefer their training structure, or want to try something different from VATSIM. The networks are similar enough that skills transfer.
Choose PilotEdge if: You’re serious about learning proper ATC procedures, training for a real pilot certificate, or simply want guaranteed controller coverage whenever you fly. The monthly cost is worth it for the consistency.
Can You Use Multiple Networks?
Absolutely. Many pilots maintain accounts on all three. You might use PilotEdge for your regular IFR practice flights, join VATSIM for special events like Cross the Pond, and hop on IVAO when flying European routes with friends.
The only technical limitation is that you can’t connect to multiple networks simultaneously—you must choose one per flight. But switching between them is as simple as launching a different client.
Getting Started on Online Networks
Regardless of which network you choose, the preparation is similar:
- Learn basic radio phraseology before your first flight
- Start with VFR flights in uncontrolled airspace
- Practice your flows and procedures offline first
- Use pilot clients that display other traffic and text backup
- Don’t be afraid to ask controllers for help—most are happy to assist
The online flying community is generally welcoming to newcomers who show genuine effort to learn. Everyone was new once, and most pilots remember their first nervous radio call.
The Bottom Line
Flying online transforms flight simulation from a solitary hobby into a living, breathing aviation experience. Whether you choose the massive community of VATSIM, the European strength of IVAO, or the professional consistency of PilotEdge, you’ll never look at solo flying the same way again.
