Introduction

This manual will show you the basic skills that you will need as an approach controller. This manual is meant to support your training, but it cannot replace an approach lesson held by the responsible Regional Group. This guide can only show you basic techniques, but it cannot provide you with descriptions on how to solve specific situations in your local area. Nor can this guide replace practice on the network. The step up from tower to approach is probably the hardest part of your ATC training on Vatsim. Be warned, you will need a lot of practice online before you can realistically pass your CPT. However, there is no need to be afraid. The ATC mentors have the necessary experience to help you throughout your training and you are neither the first nor will you be the last to pass his/her CPT on approach.

Most importantly: Have fun!

This Guide has a lot of content and will be overwhelming at first. Unfortunately, there is no way to avoid reading the whole thing as a first step in your training. However, some information will make a lot more sense once you have gained more experience on the network. You are therefore highly encouraged to read this guide or parts of this guide several times throughout your training. For example, you can use it to read up on specific topics that you feel unsure about.