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VATSIM is pleased to announce the return of Cross the Pond, this time for a westbound journey, taking off on April 26th, 2025.   Cross The Pond is the largest and longest-running event on VATSIM (over 20 years). The event is 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 #CTP25W Twitter: https://twitter.com/vatsimctp/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vatsimctp/   They also have a dedicated discord server, which is going to get busier as we approach show-day. To join, head over to https://ctp.vatsim.net and follow the instructions on your screen.

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 Patrick Leahy Burlington International Airport (KBTV). May 7, 2025 1900-2200ET {7 May 2025 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!

Mark your calendars for a truly enchanting experience as we invite you to join us for the highly anticipated unofficial kickoff to summer event, Escape to the Cape. This year's fly-in promises to be an aviation adventure over the Cape, featuring the iconic airports of Nantucket (ACK), Martha's Vineyard (MVY), Cape Cod Gateway/Hyannis (HYA), and Cape Cod CGAS (FMH). Picture yourself taking flight as the weekend dusk of Memorial Day sets in, casting a golden glow over the landscape, creating a magical ambiance for this special occasion. The allure of the Cape Cod's stunning coastline combined with the professionalism of the Boston Virtual ARTCC controllers makes this a cherished tradition and a favorite among virtual aviators in the Northeast. This event, part of BVA's renowned Fly-in series, has become a cornerstone in the General Aviation community, offering a unique opportunity for pilots to immerse themselves in the rich and challenging airspace of the Cape sector. The dynamic air traffic control services provided by the Boston Approach team ensure a realistic and engaging flying experience, making this event suitable for both seasoned pilots and those just beginning their virtual aviation journey. As you take to the virtual skies, connect with fellow aviation enthusiasts and share the thrill of navigating this picturesque airspace. Depart or arrive at Nantucket, Martha's Vineyard, Cape Cod Gateway/Hyannis, or Cape Cod CGAS to be part of the action, and experience firsthand why Escape to the Cape has become synonymous with the best of GA flying in the Northeast on VATSIM. Clear skies, the beauty of the Cape, and the camaraderie of the virtual skies await you. Don't miss the chance to be part of this legendary aviation experience during the weekend dusk of Memorial Day. Join us for Escape to the Cape, and let the adventure begin! May 29, 2025 1800-2200ET {29 May 2025 2200-0200z} Featuring: KACK, KMVY, KHYA, KFMH 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!

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 Bangor (KBGR) airports. April 10, 2025 1900-2200 ET {10 April 2025 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!

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 Albany International Airport (KALB). March 26, 2025 1800-2100ET {26 March 2025 2200-0100Z} 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!

Tape up your sticks and strap on your skates; it's time to hit the ice and play the best game you can name! Take your shift on a line with the greats of the era like Gordie HHOWE, Stan MKITA, Johhny BUCYK, Bobby HULLZ, and Tim HORTN, and try to SKORR a SLLAP SHHOT past Jacque PLNTE, all while avoiding a trip to the PNLTE BBOXX! The Original Six ARTCCs have all opened their biggest arenas for the show: who will you back in the FYTTE to be STNLE CCUPP CHMPN??? Event Airports: ORD, DTW, YYZ, YUL, JFK, BOS Date & Time: March 8th, 2025, 7:30pm → 11:00pm (09 Mar 2025 0030z - 0400z)

Come celebrate the relaunch of the BVA Military with our friends at the newly formed, BVA Special Operations (Spec Ops), at their launch party event! BVASO members will be celebrating their new chapter by conducting a number of VSOA-approved activities throughout our airspace to highlight both military-focused operations and the newly created civilian-focused operations and their importance in real-world aviation jobs in the ZBW airspace. Highlighting aviation tasks like aerial refueling, MEDEVAC and critical care patient transport, formation flying, Search & Rescue, and MOA training, critical military and civilian airports that support the mission of our real-world counter parts will be staffed to support GA, VFR and pattern work, and other commercial flying to allow both VSOA pilots and regular members plenty of opportunities to fly. Featuring Boston Logan Airport (KBOS) and the surrounding hospitals, the Boston MedFlight base at Bedford/Hanscom Airport (KBED), and the Massachusetts ANG base at Westover Air Force Base (KCEF), there is no shortage of destinations for what is sure to be a fun-packed Saturday afternoon. Non-VSOA members are encouraged to conduct point-to-point VFR flying alongside our demonstration but are reminded that any VSOA-approved activities must be conducted by ONLY active and approved BVASO members. Who knows? Maybe suddenly you'll be in a formation flight of F-15s if you miss a radio call or two....   01 March 2025 1300 - 1600 ET {01 Mar 2025 1800-2100 z}

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.

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!

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!

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!

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.

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.

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  

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.

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!

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!

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!

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!

Travelling between the USA and Canada to enjoy both national holidays? Simply looking for a New England beach getaway? Boston Virtual ARTCC and CZUL - Montreal Virtual FIR have got you covered! Come enjoy a fun flight between Providence (KPVD) and Montréal (CYUL) on Wednesday, July 3rd, between 19:00 and 22:00 ET!   Required Routing(s): CYUL-KPVD: FAWNS BUGSY ALB WIPOR3 KPVD-CYUL: PUT PBERG CARTR5

We are loading up for our 25th year of celebrating all that is the Boston Virtual ARTCC community, and you are invited to join us! On Saturday, August 10th, our controllers will bring you 6 UNINTERRUPTED HOURS of ATC across the entirety of the Boston ARTCC - Live from the Revolution ballroom located in the Renaissance Boston Patriot Place Hotel in Foxborough, MA. For those unaware, circumstances outside of our control forced us to scramble last minute and locate a whole new venue location to continue as planned for this year. Our friends at Flight Simulation Association graciously stepped in to support us. More information can be found here. Our event includes staffing at Boston (KBOS), Bradley (KBDL), Providence (KPVD), Manchester (KMHT), The Cape, and more! Staffing will be available from 12-6pm ET. The event will end promptly at 6pm ET. We are also continuing the tradition of hosting our annual Pilot Poker event. Pilots will fly into staffed towered airports and earn poker cards for each full stop landing. At the end of the event, pilots who have completed a full poker hand worth of flights (5 cards) will have the opportunity to win great prizes from our sponsors. Official Tea Party Poker 2024 rules will be posted below, so stay tuned! We strongly recommend pilots avoid the delays at KBOS and help balance the traffic by flying to the regional airports with local ATC coverage.

Join us for an exciting aviation adventure at the Portland TRACON Extravaganza, where you'll have the unique opportunity to explore the entirety of the Portland TRACON! This event features a diverse array of airports, providing a rich experience for pilots of all skill levels, whether you're looking to hone your instrument approaches, enjoy stunning coastal and inland views, or just simply fly around VFR. Event Date and Time: July 27, 2024 from 1300 to 1700 ET (1700-2100Z) Featured Airports: Portland Jetport (KPWM): The central hub of the event, offering a bustling environment for both IFR and VFR traffic.Auburn/Lewiston Municipal (KLEW): A perfect spot for practicing approaches and exploring the local area.Augusta State (KAUG): Enjoy the serene landscape and straightforward approaches.Brunswick Executive (KBXM): A former naval air station turned general aviation airport, ideal for touch-and-go practices.Knox County Regional (KRKD): Experience the picturesque coastal approaches.Sanford Seacoast Regional (KSFM): A great airport for short flights and local traffic patterns.Waterville Robert LaFleur (KWVL): Discover central Maine's hidden gem.Oxford County Regional (0B1): A cozy airport perfect for short hops.Biddeford Municipal (B19): Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of this small airport.Eastern Slopes Regional (KIZG): Nestled in the mountains, it offers challenging and rewarding flights.Laconia Municipal (63B): A scenic airport just a short hop from Portland.Norridgewock (KOWK): A quiet, rural airstrip great for practicing landings.Dexter Regional (81B): A small, welcoming airfield in the heart of Maine.Twitchell (3B5): Explore this quaint airstrip surrounded by beautiful landscapes.Highlights of the Event:Comprehensive ATC Coverage: Local and overlying air traffic controllers will be on hand to provide seamless service across the entire Portland TRACON.Diverse Flying Opportunities: Whether you're arriving from afar, flying VFR along the picturesque coastline, or practicing IFR approaches, there's something for every pilot.Scenic Visual Approaches: Take advantage of Portland's famous charted visual approach and enjoy breathtaking views along the shoreline.WINGS Program Flights: This event is an excellent opportunity to complete WINGS flights. Many of these flights include published Alternate Airports, allowing you to earn your BVA pilot ratings at event airports.Don’t miss out on this chance to experience a vibrant and busy airspace while enjoying the beauty and diversity of Maine’s airports. Mark your calendars for July 27, 2024, and get ready to take to the skies in the Portland TRACON Extravaganza!

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 Albany (KALB) airports. July 9, 2024 1900-2200ET {9 July 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!

Set the parking brake on the airliner and knock the cobwebs off your favorite general aviation aircraft! The General Aviation Fly-In visits locales across the country that are famous for their scenery and general aviation influence. While anything from a single engine Cessna to a regional jet is welcome in this event, ‘low and slow’ offers the best opportunity to experience the scenery. During this GA Fly-In event, local air traffic control is staffed at smaller airports with overlying radar controllers to provide VFR Flight Following and IFR services. Fly VFR closed traffic, practice instrument approaches, or fly VFR or IFR between the featured airports: the choice is yours. The event features Manchester (KMHT), Nashua (KASH), and Portsmouth (KPSM) airports. August 25, 2024 1300-1600ET {25 August 2024 1700-2000Z} 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!

It's a shame that events often fail to provide pilots with an abundance of options. Typically they will feature only a couple airfields, and aviators will only have a couple city-pairs to consider if they want some stellar ATC service. Well on June 21, you can forget about that problem. VATUSA will be live from FSExpo in Las Vegas on June 21 from 2300 to 0400z. We are guaranteeing coverage from coast to coast, sea to sea, border to border, however you want to say it. The hardest part about this event: choosing where to fly. You'll only have five hours of guaranteed coverage, so make the most of it. Our recommendation: do something different. Don't take out the 737 for your classic bored milk runs. Load up a plane that you haven't tried in a while. Visit a part of the country that you haven't seen before. Whatever you do, you know you'll have coverage from VATSIM's best. Be part of VATUSA's signature event and help us... Light Up America