The VATSIM Board of Governors is announcing a series of updates to the Code of Regulations (CoR) and Code of Conduct (CoC). The changes will take effect on 15 November 2025 at 1200z.
The following is a brief summary of the major changes to both policies.
Links to policies -
CoR Changes Summary
- The Conflict Resolution department has been renamed Standards and Compliance. Relevant titles and panels have been updated.
- Appeal procedures for disciplinary matters have been revised.
- A new pilot suspension with required training programme has been established under the Pilot Training Department.
- Summary judgements have been introduced for certain low level and well documented policy violations, improving case processing efficiency.
- Divisions may choose to provide ATC training exclusively in local language(s).
CoC Changes Summary
- The definition of “should” has been strengthened.
- New definitions clarify the distinction between uncontrolled airspace and unstaffed airspace on the VATSIM Network.
- The option to append “(new)” to a connection name has been removed.
- Minimum voice capability requirements have been introduced for both pilots and controllers, with exemptions for users with qualifying disabilities.
- Following the conclusion of the CTAF trial, discrete advisory frequencies are now codified. The term UNICOM is no longer used to refer to 122.800.
- The new summary judgement scale is now included in Section 6.
Additional Information
Recent updates to the ATIS and Frequency Management Policy align with these changes and are recommended reading.
Members are encouraged to review the full documents once published. Division leadership can assist with any questions.
Effective 15 NOV, 2025 at 1200z