VATUSA is pleased to announce a Town Hall meeting, Sunday 25 Sep at 8:30pm EDT, 7:30pm CDT, 6:30pm MDT, 5:30pm PDT, 4:30pm AKDT, 3:30pm HDT, 26 Feb at 0030Z, etc. -- pick your favorite time zone.

Don Desfosse, VATUSA Division Director, will host a brief discussion highlighting some recent VATUSA highlights, projects, challenges and opportunities, turn the mic over to various VATUSA staff members to add a little color, and then open the forum for general conversation, questions and answers.

The meeting will take place in the VATUSA Teamspeak server.  The following credentials will be in place shortly prior to the meeting.

The TeamSpeak server address is: ts.vatusa.net:9989
Password:  freedom
Please use your full name and facility (e.g. John Doe - ZXX) in the nickname login line.

Meeting will be held in the Archie W. League Conference Room.  If you're a minute or two early and don't know who Archie W. League is, read the description on the right side of the page.

Hope to see lots of folks there!

The purpose of this thread is to keep a running list of significant procedural updates and/or changes that controllers need to be aware of.  This should help both current, as well as returning, controllers.

Format is:
Brief title
Explanation (optional)
References (FAA, VATUSA, VATSIM, etc.)


If you see any other significant items that should be included, please reply to this thread.

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Addition of time-based separation requirements behind B757 aircraft
05/12/2016
FAA JO 7110.65 3-9-6, 3-9-7, 5-5-4
FAA N JO 7110.712 (http://www.faa.gov/documentLibrary/media/Notice/N_JO_7110.712_Same_Runway_Separation.pdf)


Visual Separation
10/14/2015
FAA JO 7110.65 7-2-1
FAA N JO 7110.696 (http://www.faa.gov/documentLibrary/media/Notice/7110.696.pdf)


Climb Via SID Phraseology
01/16/2015
VATUSA N JO 7110.601 (http://www.vatusa.net/docs/N_JO_7110601_Climb_Via.pdf)


Omission of Taxiway Connector in Taxi Instructions
12/17/2012
FAA JO 7110.65 3-7-2
FAA N JO 7110.611 (http://www.faa.gov/documentLibrary/media/Notice/N7110.611.pdf)


Transponders now should be On/Mode C during ground operations in movement areas
02/09/2012
AIM 4-1-20
[Note: The notice expired from the FAA website; see the current AIM 4-1-20]


Line Up and Wait replaces Taxi into Position and Hold
09/30/2010
FAA JO 7110.65 3-7-1, 3-9-4
FAA N JO 7110.536


Taxi Phraseology
1. The phraseology "Taxi to _____" will no longer be used.
2. Aircraft are no longer automatically permitted to cross runways along their taxi route.  An explicit runway crossing clearance must be issued for each runway (active/inactive or closed) crossing and requires an aircraft/vehicle to have crossed the previous runway before another runway crossing clearance may be issued.
FAA JO 7110.65 3-7-2
FAA N JO 7110.528


Note:  All references included in this post worked when they were posted.  However, the FAA and other agencies do occasionally remove/update pages/references.  If you see outdated information/broken links, please report them by replying to this thread.

Cross-posting an excellent description of Positive Separation as written by Christopher Coon on the VATSIM Forums:

______________

We have a requirement called "positive separation" that in the radar/IFR/class B world anyway means you never have two aircraft in your airspace that require separation that are in possible future conflict. They could be 100 miles apart but if you allow that aircraft into your airspace in future conflict with another, in real world anyway you could be written up for a "box 1" and decertified, washed out or even fired despite not actually losing separation.

I see positive separation violated a lot here so I don't think it's being taught to controllers. I had an instructor level controller working me level at 290 with a crossing restriction at 15,000. Then a couple minutes later somebody went underneath me at 27,000. I asked him why he cleared me down to 15 when there was traffic at 270 and he said "you were two thousand feet above him, we only need 1,000." That's not how separation works. Or another C-level controller who had me on a converging course, same altitude with another aircraft he was working. He descended me before losing actual separation, but we should have never been in that conflict in the first place. When I asked him, he didn't understand his failure to provide positive separation. That's why I don't think it's being taught here.

Positive separation is not about keeping aircraft X miles apart or Y feet vertically, it's about not allowing them into possible conflict in the first place. You should never clear an aircraft into possible conflict with another in your airspace, or allow an aircraft into your airspace if it's in possible conflict with one of yours (you have to resolve the conflict before taking the handoff). In my crossing restriction example, I should have been given no lower than 280 until there was lateral separation ensured with the other traffic. In the converging same-altitude example the controller should have told the previous controller to turn or climb/descend the traffic prior to taking the handoff.

That's positive separation. Converging course with 12 descending to 4 is not separated from someone at 12 descending to 5 whether or not you lose actual separation. If controllers aren't taught positive separation, I don't see how they'll know the proper way to apply visual separation. They need to be positively separated both before and after, before you can use visual separation (7-2-1 of the 7110.65).

Positive separation also means aircraft converging at the same altitude that look like they might lose lateral separation later are not separated from each other even though they're 50 or 100 miles apart. There's no such thing as "I'll turn them away or change altitudes before they get too close" -- if you've allowed that situation to occur in your airspace or between two aircraft in your control, you've failed to provide positive separation and could be disciplined (in real-world, anyway). It's a fundamental part of the job I'd like to see VATSIM teach its controllers before worrying so much about procedures and the other mundane parts of ATC.

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And adding some additional words of wisdom from Wes Miles:

...but for clarification I would add Positive control/separation isn't necessarily ensuring you never have two aircraft in possible future conflict, but recognizing those possible conflicts during your scan, taking corrective action where needed, and being ready to pull the trigger on plans B-D in advance time to where separation is never questioned. I've seen an FAA supervisor apply SUPER-positive separation during a relatively busy day and it ended up causing them WAY too much work (and nearly 3 airspace violations). Try telling controllers at N90 or C90 they should never allow aircraft in their airspace that could be a potential future conflict. In the words of a wise instructor I once had who retired out of D10: "You have RADAR. Use what the taxpayers paid for."

OPEN POSITION POSTING
DIVISION TRAINING DIRECTOR
VATUSA


VATUSA is currently seeking a Division Training Director who will provide compelling and effective leadership and management of the VATUSA Air Traffic Training function.

Key Accountabilities:
* Reports to the Division Director
* Develops and deploys effective VATUSA air traffic training program
* Manages and leads the training program to make it effective and efficient for all ARTCC controllers
* Maintains an active online presence within the facility and on the VATSIM network
* Functions as VATUSA staff member and attends meetings as necessary
* Monitors the performance and activity of ARTCC training programs and their effectiveness
* Maintains close communication with Air Traffic Directors and ARTCC ATMs on training matters

Core Requirements:
* Demonstrated project management skills
* Able to effectively lead in a team environment
* Able to effectively lead others through influence, not direct reporting responsibility
* Excellent written and oral communication skills
* Considerable experience and success in a training role, ideally as an ARTCC Training Administrator
* Currently serving (preferred), or previously served, as an Instructor within VATUSA
* Active member of the network in good standing for at least 12 months
* No significant disciplinary record or history of unprofessional behavior

Desired Skills and Capabilities:
* Demonstrated experience with the development and deployment of training programs
* Demonstrated possession and utilization of a high degree of energy, commitment and dedication
* Demonstrated qualities of understanding, patience, maturity
* Currently actively serving as an ATC Instructor, holding a rating of Instructor (I1) or higher

To be effective, the VATUSA Training Director must devote a considerable amount of time to the position; candidates must commit to devoting the time required. Only those who fully understand and meet the requirements and will make the appropriate commitment should apply. Candidates can expect an initial evaluation of their application after which they MAY be contacted for a comprehensive interview.

Interested members must provide letter of application, including full name, active email, CID, and a resume or description of VATSIM experience, including instructional and leadership roles. Additionally, the letter of application should outline the applicant's vision for the VATUSA Air Traffic Training function, including goals, strategies, plans and timelines. Finally, the application should detail the applicant's reasons for wanting to lead the Division training program, compelling evidence to show how the position requirements are met, and how the function will thrive under the applicant's leadership.

Applications should be submitted to Don Desfosse, VATUSA Division Director, at vatusa1(a)vatusa.net and Tom Seeley, VATUSA Deputy Division Director, at vatusa2(a)vatusa.net. Application deadline is June 12, 2016.

As many of you remember, one of the goals that I announced when I took over this role a few years ago was to relaunch the VATUSA Academy, enabling a common core of training through the S2 rating for new controllers prior to assignment to an ARTCC, followed by facility-specific training as necessary.  Lather, rinse and repeat when the student was ready to pursue the S3 and then the C1 ratings.  Unfortunately, though, after nearly 3 years of trying to get enough support to get the Academy to a launch point, I announced in December that there was not enough traction in terms of people interested in / able to work the Academy concept, and the project was essentially dead.

Not one to give up, though, I am excited to announce that VATUSA is entering into a training partnership with our good friends to the North, VATCAN.  VATCAN has, for years, had an Academy-like structure, the VATCAN NTU, or National Training Unit.  Effective 01 May 2016, all new students who enroll with VATUSA will take the VATUSA Basic ATC quiz as before, and then upon passing, be transferred to the Winnipeg FIR in VATCAN and enrolled in the NTU.  The NTU course consists of self-study modules which one can accomplish at their own pace.  There, students will complete the Clearance Delivery and Ground courses.  Upon completion of these courses and passing the associated written exam, students will transfer back to VATUSA, receive a quick, online, computer-based differences training module, and upon passing, then be allowed to select an ARTCC and be assigned an Instructor/Mentor at the ARTCC.  After a brief training validation with the Instructor/Mentor and a successful ‘over the shoulder’ session, students will graduate from the NTU with an S2 (Tower) rating.

The benefit here is a much more streamlined, standardized way to get to the S2 rating and get online and control, eh?  Another benefit is that students will be able to select whether they desire their training modules to be delivered in English or French!  We are excited to try this out for a 6 month period, iron out any kinks, and then in December, assuming the Trump Wall either isn't applicable to VATSIM, or isn't too high to climb, replicate the agreement with VATMEX.  That will help with any potential capacity issues, and add Spanish to the list of training languages available.

In appreciation for VATCAN's willingness and ability to train all of VATUSA's controllers on top of their own, VATCAN Director Matt Cianfarani and I have agreed to secede the Anchorage ARTCC to VATCAN's control, because let's face it, Alaska just sorta hangs off the side of Canadia anyway.... And since Alaska hangs off the side of Winnipeg, some of the NTU training will be done there, so it kinda stays in the family anyway.  As part of the agreement, though, VATUSA will pick up the Moncton FIR, as it just kinda hangs off the side of Boston anyway.  This will help dramatically improve the interface between Boston, New York Oceanic and Moncton during major events like Cross the Pond.  These airspace changes will also take effect May 1, after we've all had an opportunity to work out the details.

This announcement has now also been made public in VATCAN (http://forum.vatcan.org/viewtopic.php?f=1&t=2961), so don't be surprised if you see some more Canadians (and moose and bears, eh?) sniffing around ZAN in the next several days/weeks looking to get acclimated to their new territory!

I'm sure, just like every significant change, there will be questions.  For those of you who, in general, get it, please hold off until tonight or tomorrow to assist the others after we've had a good chance to see all the comments, concerns and questions, consolidate them into one organized list, confer with VATCAN, and find a way to best answer them all in the most efficient manner.  For those who don't really get it, by all means, post your questions, comments, and concerns, and after the dust settles a little today (and after I get home from work), we will do our best to address them all.

Just like every change, this one will take some getting used to, patience and cooperation.  We can and will make it work for the betterment of the Division.  Of course, my staff and I will do absolutely everything we can to provide the right advice and guidance to all to make it work for everyone.  As we all know, the only constant in life is change.  So let's embrace this new change as an opportunity to speed the time to network for our controllers, standardize training, and ensure high-quality students!

All,

Looks like a few facilities are running a bit short for CTP this coming Saturday.  Start time would depend on the facility, but looks like facilities are looking for help starting around 15Z at the earliest (more like 16Z or 17Z), will take anything they can get but would love folks that could put in a 5-7 hour shift.

Of course, in my opinion, the more the merrier, and I hope if there is enough outpouring of support, that the facilities will accept the extra help!

This is a GREAT way for controllers that don't usually get to work CTP streams to get that experience.  It's truly one of the toughest, and most rewarding, things you can do on VATSIM!

That said, if you're in a "prime time" position, CTP is not for the faint of heart!  People applying should be not only competent, but confident in their abilities to work a ton of traffic for several hours in a row.  It's a demanding, but awesome, experience.

I'll list the facilities, open positions that I know of at this point, and contact information in case you want to contact the facility of your choice directly.  Facilities should feel free to reply with any updates and I'll update this post.


Boston (ZBW)
Center/Enroute (2-3 openings)
ZBW EC Clif Whitten ([email protected])

Washington (ZDC)
Ground/Delivery, Ramp
ZDC EC  Brad King ([email protected]), cc: ZDC ATM Rick Rump (atm@@vzdc.org) and DATM Ray Salvagnini ([email protected])

Miami (ZMA)
Final Approach (until at least 21Z)
ZMA EC Josh Glottman ([email protected])

Minneapolis (ZMP)
Multiple positions open
ZMP ATM Alexander Zayas ([email protected])

VATSIM is pleased to announce that the next global convention will be held in the summer of 2017. The host city has been selected as London; a city with diverse and vibrant cultural events and historic sights which can all be enjoyed alongside our event.

The VATSIM global convention is a ticketed weekend-long gathering, to which all members are invited in order to meet each other, socialise and learn about the latest developments on the network. It is an excellent way to engage with new and old faces from the organization at all levels and regularly sparks new collaborations, projects and ideas for the coming years. Through previous global conventions, lifelong friendships have been formed and we hope that this event will be no different.

Our team of organizers is busy identifying a fantastic venue, designing an engaging and enriching programme and gathering the resources they need to deliver an incredible weekend for all our members.

We are making information available as early as possible and have deliberately chosen to make an announcement (even though it is brief) to facilitate members who are from further afield in making plans to join us in London. More information about specific dates, costs and what you can expect to find during our weekend will be available in the coming months. Should you have any immediate queries you can contact our team at [email protected].

We look forward to welcoming you to London in 2017.