Join Boston Virtual (ZBW), Virtual New York (ZNY), and Washington Virtual (ZDC) ARTCCs for the longstanding tradition of the Northeast Corridor FNO – a VATUSA-sanctioned Friday Night Operations event that has brought heavy traffic and realistic operations to one of the busiest airspace corridors in the world for over a decade.

On Friday, January 30, 2026, from 1900-2300 ET (2359-0400z), expect full staffing across the featured airports: Washington National (KDCA), New York LaGuardia (KLGA), and Boston Logan International (KBOS), along with their surrounding airspaces.

Pilots flying the Northeast Corridor can anticipate high-volume traffic mirroring real-world operations. Due to the inherent complexity and congestion of the northeastern airspace, traffic management initiatives – including ground delays, holding, miles-in-trail restrictions, and possible reroutes – are likely to be in effect. Plan accordingly, bring extra fuel, and enjoy the challenge!

This iconic event celebrates the tight coordination between our three ARTCCs while paying homage to Amtrak's famous Northeast Corridor rail service that connects these major hubs.

Whether you're shuttling between DCA, LGA, and BOS or flying in from afar, come experience the energy of the Northeast Corridor. Controllers and pilots alike – let's make this another memorable FNO!


Connecting VATUSA for the last 12 years!

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Here's a look back at the last 12 Northeast Corridor event banners!

Bundle up and fire up those engines — it’s time for the Cold Start FNO!

Kick off Boston Virtual ARTCC’s annual 60-hour winter marathon with a frosty Friday night across the Northeast Corridor. From 0000 to 0400z (1900–2300 ET) on Friday, December 5th, the Boston (ZBW), New York (ZNY), and Washington (ZDC) ARTCCs will team up to bring you wall-to-wall coverage from New England to the Mid-Atlantic.

No featured fields this time — the skies are your playground. Whether you’re flying a quick shuttle hop, an east coast milk run, or a long-haul departure, expect full staffing, heavy traffic, and that signature Northeast energy.

Start your weekend right — with a Cold Start.


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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.

Every year millions of people travel to the New England area to experience the breathtaking fall colors all across the region. These fall tourists are known locally as 'leaf peepers,' and they fuel a multi-billion dollar tourism industry annually. While this influx of visitors provides a welcome economic boost to the region it is not without it's challenges-particularly for rural areas where the the infrastructure and public safety resources can be stretched beyond capacity.

BVA Special Operations invites you to come join us in celebrating this unique time of year by participating in Operation Leaf Peeper, there will be mission scenarios for many different types of missions including but not limited to security overwatch and Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR); Medevac and Search and Rescue (SAR); border and airspace protection, fire watch and firefighting; airborne photography; and additional support for these missions.

Learn more about BVA Special Operations here.

19 October 2025 1300 - 1700 ET {19 Oct 2025 1700-2100Z}

Set the parking brake on the airliner and take to the skies in your favorite general aviation aircraft—this time, we’re heading to Hanscom Field in Bedford, Massachusetts.

Located just outside of Boston, KBED is home to one of the region’s busiest general aviation hubs, supporting everything from student pilots in Cessnas to corporate jets on tight schedules. With a dynamic mix of traffic, diverse operations, and a scenic approach over historic New England landscapes, Hanscom Field offers a perfect challenge for both pilots and controllers.

During the event, full local ATC coverage will be provided at KBED, with overlying radar services offering IFR and VFR support. Whether you're looking to shoot some practice approaches, enjoy some pattern work, or take a short VFR hop from another nearby field, this fly-in is all about celebrating the vibrant GA community.

Fly VFR or IFR—single engine piston or light bizjet—whatever your mission, Hanscom Field and Boston Virtual ARTCC is ready for you!

September 14, 2025 1400-1700ET {14 Sept 2025 1800-2100z}
Featuring: KBED

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

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}

The Boston Virtual ARTCC proudly invites you to one of VATSIM’s longest-standing and most beloved traditions: the 26th Annual Boston Tea Party Live Event, coming to you Saturday, August 9th from 11:00am to 5:00pm ET (1500z–2100z).

For over two decades, this event has brought together controllers and pilots from across the world for a day of high-flying fun, full regional ATC coverage, and a celebration of the ZBW VATSIM community — both virtually and in-person.

This year, we're honoring our roots and the revolutionary spirit of Paul Revere and the historic Boston Tea Party with wall-to-wall staffing across the Northeast. Expect full ATC coverage of:

• Boston Logan (BOS)
• Bradley (BDL)
• Providence (PVD)
• Portland (PWM)
• Cape Cod & Islands (HYA, MVY, ACK, and more)

But that’s not all — join the Pilot Poker Run! Fly to multiple ZBW destinations, pick up virtual playing cards, and try your luck for the best hand. The top poker hands will be eligible for awesome giveaways courtesy of our generous flight simulation sponsors. (Prizes and partners to be announced soon!)

Whether you’re a veteran of many Tea Parties or this is your first, this is your chance to experience the Boston Virtual ARTCC at its best — with dozens of controllers operating side-by-side in person, live from our Tea Party headquarters in Nashua, NH.

Don’t miss one of VATSIM’s most iconic summer traditions. Set your route, spin up the sim, and get ready to party — Boston style.