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  4. The Northeast Corridor (NEC) is a linchpin of U.S. transportation infrastructure, connecting eight states and the District of Columbia with unparalleled efficiency. From over 2,200 daily train operations to the bustling complexities of its airspace, the NEC is a marvel of integration. Recent advancements in both air and rail transport highlight the NEC's role as a beacon of modernization: The Northeast Corridor Atlantic Coast Routes (NEC ACR) project, implemented in April 2023, has modernized the high-altitude route structure with new Q and Y routes, improving efficiency, reducing delays, and providing smoother traffic flow for aviation along the East Coast.Simultaneously, Amtrak has embarked on a transformational journey within the NEC, introducing enhanced infrastructure, modernized stations, and advanced rolling stock to boost capacity, speed, and sustainability. This initiative aims to meet the growing demand for rail travel, targeting significant ridership increases and improved service reliability.To showcase the intricacies of this remarkable corridor, Virtual New York ARTCC, Washington Virtual ARTCC, and Boston Virtual ARTCC are proud to present the 11th Annual Northeast Corridor FNO on February 7th, 2025, from 7-11 PM ET (2359-0400z). Join us for a night of high-intensity operations as we fully staff three of the NEC’s busiest air hubs: Washington-National (DCA)New York-LaGuardia (LGA)Boston-Logan (BOS)Experience the cutting-edge efficiency of NEC ACR's modernized airspace as well as the realism of simulating the heavy traffic volumes characteristic of this region. Whether you’re flying short hops between major hubs or exploring longer routes along the Atlantic Coast, this event promises excitement and realism at every turn. As airspace in the NEC evolves, so too does the vital rail network. Amtrak has launched several initiatives to modernize its flagship corridor, focusing on: High-Speed Rail Modernization: Amtrak’s introduction of next-generation Avelia Liberty trains will increase top speeds and passenger comfort, offering faster, more efficient service.Infrastructure Upgrades: Major bridge and tunnel projects, including the Gateway Program, aim to alleviate bottlenecks and expand capacity, ensuring smoother operations and reducing delays.Station Enhancements: Renovation projects at stations like Washington Union Station and New York Penn Station enhance passenger experiences with modern facilities and increased capacity.Sustainability Goals: Investment in eco-friendly technologies and cleaner locomotives aligns with Amtrak’s goals to reduce its carbon footprint, making rail travel an even greener alternative to driving or flying.With these improvements, Amtrak plans to increase its ridership volume by up to 20% over the next decade, offering a more reliable, efficient, and sustainable transportation option for travelers in the NEC. Together, these air and rail advancements underscore the Northeast Corridor’s role as a premier transportation network, bridging innovation across both the skies and the rails.
  5. In the Regional Circuit, we staff up multiple of our airports to provide pilots with an opportunity to receive 'gate-to-gate' ATC service for the duration of the event. Pilots are encouraged to fly between the airports and make the return flight if time allows; however, traffic from other airports is welcome as well. The Regional Circuit always creates an immersive atmosphere with busy frequencies and congested airways between the host airports. This Regional Circuit features Boston (KBOS) and Syracuse (KSYR) airports. February 25, 2025 1900-2200 ET {25 Feb 2025 2359-0300z} It’s also a great time to try out one of our WINGS flights. Remember, many of the flights have published Alternate Airports, allowing you to earn your BVA pilot ratings at event airports!
  6. BVA's Facility Showcase gives pilots the opportunity to experience one of our minor airports. Local and overlying air traffic controllers will be providing service for those looking to explore the area, practice instrument approaches, arrive from afar, or just remain in the pattern. With a single focus-airport, this is the perfect opportunity to experience being sequenced at a busier airport with both IFR and VFR arrivals. This week's event features Rhode Island T. F. Green International Airport (KPVD).  January 22, 2025 1900-2200ET {22 January 2025 2359-0300Z} It’s also a great time to try out one of our WINGS flights. Remember, many of the flights have published Alternate Airports, allowing you to earn your BVA pilot ratings at event airports!
  7. Amazing. The Burlington practice area is over the top of Savage Island. In the winter, when the owner wasn't there, my ppl instructor had me doing engine-out training into ground effect over the snow-covered runway.
  8. Welcome to the ‘Burlington Takeover’, an official X-Plane group flight conducted on the VATSIM network. The primary purpose of this flight is to bring the X-Plane community even closer together in the virtual skies! This is a fly-in type of event featuring Burlington International (KBTV), along with Savage Island (VT15), Cub Field (47VT), Bailey Airport (VT53), and a few others. The air traffic control that you will experience on VATSIM is generously provided by the Boston Virtual ARTCC and its wonderful controllers. We've even developed custom scenery for the event!
  9. Read more about 60 Hours of ATC, our new Runway 33L notice, and more in the December Logan Informer.
  10. Every few years, the BVA Administration Team plans to host an all members meeting to highlight and review changes and improvements coming to the community. This year, the A-Team is planning to hold the all members meeting on Friday, December 20th from 8:00pm to 10:00pm ET in the BVA Members TeamSpeak. At the conclusion of the meeting, the A-Team will stick around and invites controller members to join us in a staff-up of the ARTCC, as well as invites pilot members to fly within the airspace.  The all members meeting is open to all members of the community and will offer a dedicated time for Q&A with the A-Team towards the end of the meeting. A full list of agenda topics will be announced soon. We look forward to talking and meeting with all of you.
  11. Bundle up and prepare for The Winter Howl FNO! Where winter's chill meets the thrill of flying! On Friday, December 6th, join us for an exciting evening spanning the frosty expanse of the Northeastern United States. This event features extensive ATC coverage from the region's major centers: ZBW, ZNY, ZOB, ZDC, and ZID. With this broad ATC coverage, you'll experience seamless guidance and support as you traverse one of the country's most dynamic and challenging airspaces. As the sun sets and the temperatures drop, embrace the spirit of the season with snow-dusted airports, de-icing routines, and intricate air traffic management. Feel the thrill of navigating through wintry conditions, from the glistening runways to the swirling snowflakes that challenge your flying precision. The Winter Howl is designed to test your piloting skills in an environment where winter’s challenges are both visually stunning and technically demanding. Each flight will offer a unique opportunity to master winter operations and showcase your ability to handle complex scenarios with finesse. As you soar through this winter wonderland, keep an eye out for the subtle signs of the season's wildlife. From the elusive coyote tracks in the snow to the graceful flight of snowy owls, the beauty of winter's natural inhabitants will add a touch of magic to your experience. Just as these creatures adapt to the cold, you'll need to adapt to the challenging weather conditions, making each approach and landing a true test of skill and adaptability. Don’t miss out on this chance to elevate your skills and connect with fellow aviation enthusiasts in a festive setting. Mark your calendars for December 6th, from 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm ET (2359-0400z), and get ready to immerse yourself in a winter wonderland like never before. Whether you’re a seasoned pilot or new to the virtual skies, The Winter Howl promises an evening of exhilarating flying and vibrant community spirit. Prepare for an unforgettable flight experience and join us for The Winter Howl 2024! Event ARTCCs: ZBW, ZNY, ZOB, ZDC, ZID Date & Time: December 6th 2024, 7:00pm → 11:00pm (2359z - 0400z)   Concurrently, ZBW will be hosting the 60 Hours of BVARTCC event. This is a one-of-a-kind ATC marathon event! Boston Center will be staffed continuously for 60 hours throughout the weekend in December. Please check the event posting for details.
  12. Join us for this one of a kind ATC marathon event! Boston Center will be staffed continuously for 60 hours throughout the weekend in December.  As part of this unique tradition, we will also be hosting Friday Night Operations (FNO) to kick off the first night of this amazing weekend. This is one of our favorite events and we look forward to talking to you all throughout the weekend of continuous ATC coverage. There are no sign-ups or special actions required for pilots to participate: just connect and fly, any time you want, between 11:00am ET on Friday, December 6 through 11:00pm ET on Sunday, December 8. How many flights can you get in before the end of the night on Sunday? Begins: Friday, December 6th, 11am ET (1600z) Ends: Sunday, December 8th, 11pm ET (0400z) The Winter Howl FNO: Friday, December 6, 7-11pm ET (2359 - 0400z) featuring ZBW, ZNY, ZOB, ZDC, ZID  
  13. Suggestion: Have a brief bit on how to install/use the livery.
  14. All, We’re pleased to announce the release of an official Boston Virtual ARTCC paint scheme for the PMDG 737-800 for your use on Microsoft Flight Simulator, which can be downloaded here. @Sean Doyle (DY) designed this livery and has emphasized that this is a beta release with additional detailing and features to come at a later date. Years ago, DY had originally released a B738 BVA livery for Prepar3D. This new livery provides a modernized and refreshed look using vector graphics and a creative hexagon pattern on the tail. These liveries give our members an opportunity to fly throughout the network and within our airspace, showcasing their pride for our great community. When the original livery was released, members filed flight plans under the ICAO code "BVA" with the callsign 'Fenway' – we encourage you to carry on this legacy. If you choose to do so, please include “CALLSIGN FENWAY” within the remarks section of your flight plan. DY has expressed that in addition to this release that, as of right now, there are plans to create this livery for the following airframes: PMDG 737-800 BBJ2 iFly 737 MAX8 Fenix A320/A321 PMDG 777F (once released) There is no timeline for these additional variants. Should you have any questions or feedback, they can be sent to DY directly. Download here.
  15. Read more about these and other updates in the November Logan Informer.
  16. Cross the Pond Eastbound 2024 October 19, 2024 6-1:00pm ET Timelapses: Boston Tower View, submitted by Szymon P. Boston Center, submitted by Brett R. Boston Center, submitted by George T. Boston Center, submitted by Dan G. Boston Cab + Tower View, submitted by Krikor H. Boston TRACON, submitted by Terrell B. Statistics: from Statsim: KBOS Departures 171. 1100-1200z: 11 1200-1300z: 25 1300-1400z: 49 1400-1500z: 29 1500-1600z: 17 1600-1700z: 19 KBOS Arrivals 36. KBDL Departures 51. 1100-1200z: 10 1200-1300z: 7 1300-1400z: 21 1400-1500z: 4 1500-1600z: 8 1600-1700z: 1 KBDL Arrivals 7.
  17. Join VATUSA in partnership with The Virtual USA Flying Club and The Pilot Club for General Aviation Appreciation Day on November 17th, 2024! From coast to coast, north to south, you'll find multiple Class D and C airports staffed in every ARTCC from 2100-0200z. Hop back into your favorite light twin, taildragger, or trusty Skyhawk and take to the skies this Sunday!   A full list of the 60+ airports staffed can be found at https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1n2Ty4UjnoJvC8yPZmnNbusoJgzs6YHsHbPKIGGEsbkg/edit?usp=sharing   Aviation Adventures Cessna 172 N144ME by Dylan T is licensed under CC BY 2.0, plane cropped from larger image.
  18. Read more about Cross the Pond, Code of Conduct changes, upcoming events, and more in the October Logan Informer.
  19. VATSIM is pleased to announce the return of Cross the Pond, now for an eastbound journey on October 19th, 2024.   Cross The Pond is the largest and longest-running event on VATSIM (20+ years). The event is the biannual flying between the two sides of the Atlantic Ocean - Westbound in the spring and Eastbound in the autumn. Hundreds of pilots light up the virtual skies, and dozens of controllers burn both ends of the candle to provide professional ATC service over the Ocean and the Continents.   To keep in touch with news regarding the event, you can follow their social media and look for the hashtag #CTP24E Twitter: https://twitter.com/vatsimctp/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vatsimctp/   They also have a dedicated discord server. To join, head over to https://ctp.vatsim.net and follow the instructions on your screen.   We will be featuring both Boston Logan Intl and Bradley Intl Airports!
  20. Read more about the upcoming Boston Tea Party in the September Logan Informer.
  21. As autumn blankets New England in vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold, it's the perfect time to experience the magic of flying in the northeastern United States. The Foliage Fly-In invites you to soar above breathtaking landscapes, where rolling hills, dense forests, and shimmering lakes are transformed by the brilliant colors of fall. Whether you're an experienced pilot or just starting your virtual aviation adventure, this event offers a unique opportunity to explore New England's stunning autumn scenery from the sky. Join us on October 30th, from 7-10 PM ET, as we feature ATC at three iconic airports—KBTV (Burlington International Airport), KLEB (Lebanon Municipal Airport), and KMHT (Manchester-Boston Regional Airport). These gateways to New England provide the perfect vantage points for witnessing the region's peak foliage, as the vibrant tapestry of autumn unfolds beneath you. From the rugged terrain of the White and Green Mountains to the quaint towns and winding rivers, the view from the cockpit will be nothing short of spectacular. Whether you're flying in or out of Burlington, Lebanon, or Manchester, or just passing through, the Foliage Fly-In promises an unforgettable experience. So mark your calendars, fuel up, and get ready for an evening of scenic flights and immersive ATC as we celebrate the beauty of New England in the fall.   October 30, 2024 1900-2200ET {30 October 2024 2300-0200Z} It’s also a great time to try out one of our WINGS flights. Remember, many of the flights have published Alternate Airports, allowing you to earn your BVA pilot ratings at event airports!
  22. In the Regional Circuit, we staff up multiple of our airports to provide pilots with an opportunity to receive 'gate-to-gate' ATC service for the duration of the event. Pilots are encouraged to fly between the airports and make the return flight if time allows; however, traffic from other airports is welcome as well. The Regional Circuit always creates an immersive atmosphere with busy frequencies and congested airways between the host airports. This Regional Circuit features Albany (KALB), Boston (KBOS), and Bangor (KBGR) airports. October 2, 2024 1900-2200ET {2 October 2024 2300-0200Z} It’s also a great time to try out one of our WINGS flights. Remember, many of the flights have published Alternate Airports, allowing you to earn your BVA pilot ratings at event airports!
  23. After circumstances outside of our control left us out on the street for our live event on August 10th - the BVA community came together and showed how special it really is. Within 24 hours of hearing the news that our original venue had ceased operations and closed indefinitely, we were able to pull resources together and began working on our plan B. Fortunately, our hotel contacts were able to secure their function hall on short notice and get us full support in executing our event as scheduled. From room rental, food and beverage costs, and electrical drops necessary to allow our controller setups - BVA was faced with a deficit that was not accounted for with the original cost for our attendees. Our Tea Party Working Group and Administration Team went to work to determine the best course of action to cover this deficit. For those that don't know Boston Virtual ARTCC is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and everyone who was working to make this event possible is doing so as a volunteer. Members of our events team have spent time and money out of their own pockets to plan this event for months, and now re-plan it within a matter of 24 hours - but we did it and had some help in doing so. With the new venue costs as well as an increase in food and beverage expenses, we anticipated having additional charges to our attendees or having to request donations to cover any overages. After hearing about our predicament, the team at Flight Simulation Association (FSA) sprung into action to cover any cost differences allowing us to proceed with the event at no additional charge to our attendees in order to pay it forward to our great community of pilots and controllers. FSA is the organizer of FlightSimExpo, an in-person convention for the flight sim community that enables attendees to connect with developers, vendors, and demo a wide range of new hardware. Boston Virtual ARTCC is excited to welcome FlightSimExpo 2025 to Providence, Rhode Island on June 27-29, 2025, the first time the event is held "within" our virtual airspace. As part of our gratitude to FSA for covering these costs and enabling our community to move forward without additional fundraising, we feel it’s imperative to encourage our community to continue to support their organization. Flight Sim Association offers multiple membership tiers with a wide range of digital content that educates new and experienced simmers alike, as well as discounted and free products from well known vendors. A large number of BVA members also support FSA and FlightSimExpo through volunteering opportunities each year. Please feel free to review membership and volunteer opportunities available by checking out Flight Sim Association here.
  24. Boston Virtual ARTCC (BVA) is excited to announce the introduction of a three-part "Pre-Flight Checks" series, as a precursor to BVAs Wings Over New England (WINGS) flights. These Pre-Flight Checks replace BVAs "Getting Started Guide", and offer a more hands-on and practical approach in assisting pilots with getting connected to VATSIM and beginning their online flying experience. The three-part series is targeted toward new members of our community, and outlines everything from making an account, configuring simulators, choosing callsigns, filing a flight plan, and more. All members who have completed at least one WINGS flight prior to this announcement will automatically receive credit for the Pre-Flight Checks. Click here to read more.
  25. Read more about the upcoming Boston Tea Party in the August Logan Informer.
  26. This week's BVA event features a special twist on our normal GA Fly-In series. Join BVA on November 12th from 7-10pm ET for a special military airport focused fly-in event featuring four airports within our airspace with military installations: Westfield - Barnes Regional Airport (KBAF), Burlington International Airport (KBTV), Westover Air Reserve Base/Metropolitan Airport (KCEF), and Wheeler-Sack Army Airfield Airport (KGTB). This is a great opportunity to practice helicopter operations or just go for a scenic flight across the center of our airspace. While you are at it, feel free to dive into the rules and regulations around Special Use Airspace. It’s also a great time to try out one of our WINGS flights. Remember, many of the flights have published Alternate Airports, allowing you to earn your BVA pilot ratings at event airports!
  27. Boston Virtual ARTCC is excited to announce our list of prizes for this year's Tea Party Poker event! We're excited to work with several great developers from the community to offer prizes to participants of Tea Party Poker. The first-place participant will have the choice of all available prizes while each subsequent winner will be able to choose from the remaining items. Grand Prize Welcome to your full Airbus cockpit in civil flight simulation: WINWING’s Airline Panels and URSA MINOR Joystick, tailored for flight simulation enthusiasts and professionals alike. The life size replica not only captures the essence of a full-scale airline cockpit but also offers an unparalleled level of realism and immersion. The prize includes: 1. Perfect Trio: EFIS L + FCU + EFIS R 1:1 Full-Scale Structural Molding, Color Matching with Real Aircraft, Variable Speed Input 2. URSA MINOR Airline Joystick L Integrated Dynamic Vibration Motor, Hidden 5-Way Switch, Radio PTT Trigger Into reality with WINWING: https://us.winwingsim.com/view/index.html Additional Prizes include: • FlyTampa: FlyTampa-Boston for MSFS • Navigraph: Unlimited one-year subscription • LatinVFR: Product of choice • Verticalsim: KSYR – Syracuse Hancock International MSFS • Flightbeam Studios: Scenery gift card • iniBuilds: Scenery of choice • FlightFX: SF50 Vision Jet G2, Marwan Gharib’s HJet, Chicago Executive Airport, DuPage Airport • FlightFactor: Product of choice The prizes will be available to pilot winners of Tea Party Poker and the air traffic controllers that participate in the event. Please join us in thanking the sponsors who have donated these amazing prizes to the community to help make the event a memorable experience!
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