Big Update: Terrain-Based Ranging is Coming to VATSIM!

[1711899 (VATSIM)]

VATSIM is rolling out an exciting 24-hour test of our upgraded voice system, featuring Terrain-Based Ranging, starting:

Tuesday, July 15th at 0000z - 2359z

What’s New?

We’re adding a new level of realism by simulating how terrain affects radio coverage – just like in real-world aviation.

Flying through valleys?
Skimming low on approach?

You might notice weaker or lost voice contact with ATC or other pilots in those situations.

Can’t Hear a Controller?

No worries – just switch to text communication during the test.

We appreciate your support as we continue making VATSIM more realistic and immersive. Happy flying!

[1512667 (Thor Høgås)]

Exciting. This’ll be good fun for VFR flights in Norway given all the fjords. Given that there are a lot of places where communication should be worse, are there good ways to check what the reception status is for a given location?

[1601155 (Rahul Chakraborty)]

VATSIM Tech is planning to release a endpoint where users will be able to look up the approximate terrain altitude at a given point.

[1256470 (Bill Carlson)]

Text should be removed!

[1280094 (Stamatis Tsolakidis)]

VATSIM is accessible to all, including users with speech or hearing impediments. Additionally, there is no VATSIM data ground to air communication simulation (aka ACARS), so text serves that purpose as well. Text should remain; don’t hate text, embrace it.