To all members of the VATSIM Virtual Airlines community,
The VATSIM Virtual Airlines Department is pleased to announce the release of the updated Virtual Airline Partner (VAP) Policy v1.5 and Virtual Airline Associate (VAA) Policy v1.2. These policies are now live and provide updated guidance, clarity, and structure for Virtual Airlines participating within the VATSIM network.
Official Policy Documents
Virtual Airline Partner Policy (v1.5):
Virtual Airline Associate Policy (v1.2):
Key Policy Highlights:
Structured Partner and Associate Programs:
The updated policies clearly define eligibility requirements, operational expectations, benefits, and audit standards for both Virtual Airline Partners and Virtual Airline Associates. These updates reinforce transparency, consistency, and long-term sustainability across the Virtual Airline ecosystem.
Formal Support for Discord-Only Virtual Airlines
A major focus of these updates is the formal recognition and support of Discord-Only Virtual Airlines.
Discord-only Virtual Airlines are now fully supported within the Virtual Airline Associate (VAA) program, provided they meet defined Discord-based operational, conduct, and audit accessibility requirements.
This structure allows newer or smaller Virtual Airlines to participate in the VATSIM ecosystem without the immediate requirement of maintaining a public website.
Discord-only Virtual Airlines wishing to progress to Virtual Airline Partner (VAP) status must establish a compliant public website and meet all Partner-level requirements.
Audit Cycles and Compliance:
The policies continue to emphasize consistent oversight through defined audit cycles—90 days for Partners and 60 days for Associates—ensuring accountability while supporting Virtual Airline growth and improvement.
Looking Ahead: Virtual Airline Sponsored Events
In addition to these policy updates, the Virtual Airlines Department is excited to share that throughout this year we will be working to expand and improve Virtual Airline-sponsored events across the VATSIM network. These efforts are aimed at increasing engagement, collaboration, and visibility for our Partner and Associate Virtual Airlines. More details will be announced in the coming months.
What This Means for Virtual Airlines
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Clear and transparent participation pathways for both traditional and Discord-only Virtual Airlines
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Formal recognition and visibility within VATSIM programs
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Defined opportunities for growth, progression, and community engagement
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Upcoming event initiatives designed to better support Virtual Airlines and their members
All Virtual Airline leadership teams are encouraged to review the updated policies using the links above and ensure their organizations remain aligned with current requirements.
On behalf of our entire Vatsim Virtual Airlines Department Team we want to thank you for your continued support and commitment to the VATSIM Virtual Airline community.
Best Regards,
Joe Burner
Director; Vatsim Virtual Airlines Department