Answers · General

General ATC & Radio Questions & Answers

This ATC hub covers both built-in simulator services and online networks such as VATSIM. Topics include getting started with flight training, understanding controller roles, reading ATIS information and following realistic radio procedures from clearance delivery through taxi, departure, approach and landing.

It also addresses common reasons ATC appears silent or unavailable, including incorrect radio frequencies, disabled assistance settings, missing flight plans, poor network configuration and being outside controller coverage. Answers are written and tested by the Fly Away team, with practical checks for radio setup, simulator options and online-client connections.

How does air traffic control work in flight simulators?Learn how air traffic control works in flight simulators, from clearances and radio tuning to AI traffic, online controllers and common ATC errors.7 min read · Jul 2026Ian StephensRead answer
Why is ATC not working in a flight simulator?Find why ATC is silent or unresponsive in a flight simulator, with fixes for radio power, COM frequencies, audio, flight plans and add-ons.5 min read · Jul 2026Ian StephensRead answer
How do you read and use ATIS in a flight simulator?Learn how to read and use ATIS in a flight simulator: decode the broadcast, set QNH, choose the runway and report the correct information code.7 min read · Jul 2026Ian StephensRead answer
How do I start VATSIM flight training?Start VATSIM flight training with a practical syllabus for offline skills, radio practice, observer mode, first flights and common mistakes.7 min read · Jul 2026Ian StephensRead answer
What is VATSIM and how do you use it in a flight sim?Learn what VATSIM is, which client and equipment you need, and how to connect your flight simulator, file a plan and speak to live ATC safely.8 min read · Jul 2026Ian StephensRead answer

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