Training Course

Visiting Controller course (Aerodrome)

Skills

The visiting controller (aerodrome)  course is designed for controllers who wish to control an aerodrome position (DEL, GND, TWR) within VATNZ airspace with VC status. The course teaches the procedures and phraseology unique to New Zealand. After registration is accepted, the course material becomes visible below. Click on each section to work through the course materials. Also, join the VATNZ Discord server by clicking on the Discord icon at the top right of this page and following the invite instructions.  After passing the theory test, candidates are assigned a mentor. They will contact candidates through Discord to arrange the practical training.

Controllers from VATPAC are not required to complete this course and may log on to any VATNZ position they are rated on in VATPAC airspace as per a letter of agreement between VATPAC and VATNZ. However, they must join the VATNZ Discord server. We advise a reasonable period of observing, and careful study of the relevant controller SOP documents, before logging onto a position.

Prerequisite:

Candidates must meet the VATSIM Visiting Controller & Transferring Controller Policy. The Training Director assesses each application before acceptance. 

Theory component:

Study of the relevant course materials followed by a theory examination. Candidates must score 80% or better to begin the observation component.

Observation component:

If not already completed, installation and set up of the EuroScope ATC client (vatSys coming soon!) under the supervision of a mentor. The candidate is then added to the VATNZ member database.

Topics:

1. Review theory examination(s)
2. Set up EuroScope, the SRC tool, and AFV as applicable
3. Connecting to the network on position for OJT (on-the-job training) with a mentor (candidate must have been added to the VATNZ database)
4. Introduction to VATNZ ATC resources
5. Introduction to VATNZ SOP 
6. Introduction to the AIP-NZ for NZAA
7. Airspace Classification in New Zealand

Practical component:

Lesson 1: Initial

Session Type: SweatBox

Topics:

1. Flight plan handling and Standard Route Clearances
2. VFR clearances
3. General discussion relevant to the position (TWR, TMA, ENR)

Lesson 2: Consolidation

Session Type: Online

All topics

Assessment:

Mentors consult with the Training Director on the candidate's completion of the syllabus. A practical assessment is not required; however, it may be carried out at the Training Director's discretion.