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.

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}

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.

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}

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 {13 Nov 0000-0300z} 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 is Summer in New England, and you know what that means…. Boston Virtual ARTCC's Tea Party Poker is BACK! We invite all pilots to participate and win some of the great prizes we have to offer!

Are you new to Boston Virtual ARTCC or VATSIM? Find out more about getting started with online ATC.  

What is Tea Party Poker?
Tea Party Poker is a fun game that gives pilots another reason to participate in the event, see more of our airspace, and the chance to win some terrific prizes! While there is absolutely no requirement to participate in Poker, it's become an annual tradition that many pilots take part in.

If you choose to participate in Tea Party Poker:

• Each time you land at a Class B, C, or D airport inside ZBW, send BOS_PK_CTR a private message and you'll get a reply with your virtual poker card(s).
• You must fly to airports that are at least 50nm apart (straight-line distance).
• Once you obtain 5 cards, you can keep flying, discarding, and picking up new cards to help better your hand.
• The pilot(s) with the best hand at the end of the event will win and pick their choice of available prizes.

The full set of rules is listed below.

Rules
All pilots who choose to participate in this competition agree to abide by the rules below. The competition rules may be modified for clarity or other reasons without prior notification to participants. Please refer to this page for any updates. These rules are current as of July 4, 2024. The Events Coordinator shall have final say on all questions or disputes regarding this competition, and will be responsible for determining the winners.
 
The full rules governing the contest are:
1. Event Duration: The poker game starts at 12:00pm ET on Saturday, August 10 and ends promptly at 6:00pm ET (1600z to 2200z).
 
2. How To Play: A pilot is eligible to draw virtual poker cards by completing any Eligible Flight during the event. At the conclusion of a flight, a pilot may contact the designated event official (BOS_PK_CTR) via private message (PM) to obtain the poker card(s). The event official will respond via private message advising the pilot of the cards they have received.
 
• When contacting BOS_PK_CTR to obtain a card, your PM must include:

• Flight origin and destination.
• VATSIM CID
• Email Address (first message only).

• Pilots will receive:

• First drawing: two poker cards.
• Subsequent drawings:
                      - Two poker cards, if the landing is at an airport other than KBOS that is staffed by a Tower controller. Pilots have the option pick up only one card, if desired.
                      - One poker card, if the landing is at a towered airport staffed "top down" by an Approach or Center controller only, or if the landing is at KBOS.

• Pilots may contact BOS_PK_CTR to obtain a card after landing at the intended destination and once at a safe/appropriate location. Once the 'card request' message has been sent, pilots do not need to wait for a reply or card assignment; the next flight may begin immediately.
 
3. Notification of Winners, Prize Priority: By entering the contest and providing your email address to BOS_PK_CTR, you consent to Boston Virtual ARTCC emailing should you be a winner. (If you are not a winner, we won't contact you, nor will we retain your contact information beyond the conclusion of the event.) Winners will be notified at the email address provided within 14 days of the end of the competition and will be able to choose from the list of prizes available in order of their poker hand. Winners must respond to their prize notification email within 48 hours to confirm their priority and select a prize. Winners who do not respond within 48 hours will lose their priority to select a prize but may still be eligible for any remaining prizes at the time they reply to the email.

4. How To Win: The pilots with the strongest poker hands at the conclusion of the event will be the winners. The number of possible winners will be equal to the number of pilot prizes available. Pilots must hold a full hand (5 cards) to win; therefore, pilots must complete, at a minimum, 3 eligible flights to qualify. Winning pilots will be allowed to select from a variety of prizes in order based on the strength of their respective poker hands:

5. Eligible Flights: An Eligible Flight is any flight that terminates in a full-stop landing at a towered airport (controlled by Tower, Approach, or Center) within Boston ARTCC (ZBW) during the scheduled event times and complies with the restrictions outlined. Flights that originate outside ZBW airspace, and flights that originate before the start of the event, may be considered eligible provided they comply with the restrictions below. If a pilot is not certain whether a flight will be eligible, they should contact the designated event official (BOS_PK_CTR) via private message prior to departure.  

• The flight must be between airports that are at least 50nm apart (by straight-line distance). 
• The destination must be a towered airport (surrounded by Class B, C, or D airspace).
• The pilot must remain connected to the VATSIM network for the duration of the flight.
• VFR pilots must file a Flight Plan prior to departure that includes, at a minimum, their aircraft type, origin, and destination.
• The event ends promptly at 6:00pm ET (2200z) and any flights that conclude after this time will not receive a card.

6. Discarding: Pilots who hold a full hand (5 cards) may try to better their hands throughout the event time by completing additional flights. Pilots wishing to do this should advise the designated event official (BOS_PK_CTR) of the card or cards they would like to discard at any point, before receiving new cards. At no point shall a pilot hold more than 5 cards in their hand.

7. Designated Event Official (BOS_PK_CTR): Issuing and tracking of pilot cards will be conducted by a designated event official. Cards that each pilot has in their "possession" will remain unknown to all other pilots until the event is complete. A pilot may verify their card holdings with the designated event official via private message. All replies to card verification requests will be returned via private message.
  
8. Number of Decks: The competition will use a minimum of one deck of cards (52 cards) to start with, and the cards will be issued at random. Once this deck has been exhausted, a new deck will be added. Cards that are discarded will be placed back into the pool of available cards.
  
9. Duplicate Cards: It is possible that a pilot may mistakenly receive a duplicate card during the event. If this happens, it is the pilot's responsibility to notify the designated event official (BOS_PK_CTR) as soon as possible and receive a new card. Hands containing duplicate cards are considered "illegal" poker hands and will not be eligible to win.
  
10. Tracking of Poker Hands: Poker hands will be tied to a pilot's VATSIM CID, not their name or callsign.
  
11. Exchanging of Cards: Trading, exchanging, or transferring of cards between or among pilots will not be allowed at any time during the event.
  
12. Withdrawal: A pilot wishing to withdraw from the game must notify the designated event official (BOS_PK_CTR) by private message, or if unavailable, one of the BVA controllers staffing a position. The pilot's cards will be returned to the deck(s) and made available to other competitors to collect. Once a pilot has withdrawn, they may not attempt to re-enter the competition.
  
13. Shared Cockpit Flights: Cards are issued to flights, not pilots. Participants who choose to fly together in the same aircraft (i.e., shared cockpit flying) will be considered a single flight and receive one set of cards. For the purposes of the competition, the name and CID of the pilot who messaged BOS_PK_CTR will be considered the pilot who is participating in the competition.
  
14. Disqualification: Pilots who are disqualified will not be allowed to re-enter the competition. The Events Coordinator will have the final say in any disputes regarding pilot disqualification. A pilot may be disqualified from the competition for: 

• Failure to comply with VATSIM COC.
• Refusal to comply with ATC instructions.
• Attempting to cheat or circumvent the competition rules.
• Providing false/misleading information to the event official.

 
Disclaimer
In no way should this competition be seen as a promotion or simulation of gambling. There is no purchase necessary to play or win. Gambling is not endorsed by Boston Virtual ARTCC or any of its affiliates, including VATUSA, VATSIM, and the event sponsors.

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!

Congratulations Krikor!