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Your First Session

You have just received your rating and are about to connect on your own for the first time. Use this checklist: your ticks are saved in this browser, and you can clear them to reuse the list in your next session.

Before connecting

  • I chose a position allowed by my rating, at a time when I can stay for at least one hour.
  • I read the aerodrome or TMA page in the MOP: runways, frequencies, departures, local rules.
  • I updated the sector files in the Sector File Manager.
  • I checked the METAR and chose the runway in use based on the wind and the MOP rules.
  • I checked the controller list to see who is online above and beside me, so I know who I will coordinate with.
  • I tested my headset and microphone in TrackAudio.

When connecting

  • I connected to EuroScope with the correct callsign and frequency for the position.
  • I set the frequency as primary and filled in the controller information (Controller ATIS).
  • I connected TrackAudio with RX and TX enabled on my frequency.
  • I connected vacs, to make and receive coordination calls.
  • I published the ATIS in vATIS, if the position is responsible for it.
  • I announced in the ATC channel that I opened the position, and took over the traffic already on the ground.

During the session

  • One call at a time: callsign, short message, readback checked.
  • I entered each clearance in EuroScope (clearance, level, ground state).
  • I handed each aircraft off to the next unit at the right time, or to UNICOM if no one is online.
  • When I did not know something, I asked for help in the ATC channel instead of improvising.

When closing

  • I gave neighboring controllers advance notice.
  • I handed off all traffic or told pilots to monitor UNICOM (122.800).
  • I disconnected vATIS, vacs, TrackAudio and EuroScope.
  • I noted what went well and what I want to improve next time.

Five common first-time mistakes

Connecting without reading the MOP

Each aerodrome has its own preferred runways, departures and rules. Five minutes of reading keep you from clearing the wrong runway or a departure that does not exist.

Talking too much

Short messages, in phraseology order. If the pilot has to ask you to say again, the frequency is busy twice as long.

Not checking the readback

The readback exists so you catch an error before it becomes a problem. Listen to what the pilot read back and correct it right away.

Forgetting the handoff

The aircraft took off and is still on your frequency? It does not know who to talk to. Hand it off as soon as it leaves your area.

Leaving without notice

Disconnecting with traffic under your control leaves pilots without service and neighbors without coordination. Close calmly, following the checklist.

Going further