Changes to The Flying Programme
We’re pleased to announce the launch of a brand new VFR (Visual Flight Rules) course within The Flying Programme, built specifically to support everyday pilots who want to fly light aircraft confidently on the VATSIM network without getting too buried theory or technicalities.
This course provides a practical, no nonsense introduction to VFR flying, focusing on the essential knowledge and skills needed to operate competently in the online environment. Unlike the highly detailed P1 course, this VFR module keeps things simple and actionable, just enough theory to understand what you’re doing, with the focus squarely on application.

Why This Course Exists
The Flying Programme has always aimed to guide pilots to full VATSIM competency, and that mission hasn’t changed. What has changed is how accessible that pathway can be. This new VFR course acts as a foundation, not a shortcut. It gives new pilots a solid, confidence building first step into online flying and serves as a great lead in to more advanced training like the P1.
As mentioned by Darren in a previous blog post, completion of The Flying Programme’s VFR course now grants a reduced hour requirement toward the P1 rating, meaning you’ll not only be better prepared but also one step closer to certification.

What You’ll Learn
The course covers the most important areas of VFR operations on VATSIM, including:

• VATSIM Mandatory Knowledge (Flight Plans and Connecting)
• Radiotelephony
• Basic Aircraft Knowledge
• Airspace and Flight Rules
• Operations of Aerodromes
• Meteorology and Altimetry
• FISO and A/G Operators
• Standard VFR Procedures

All training will use common GA aircraft like the Cessna 152, Cessna 172, and PA28, the kind of aircraft most people are familiar with.

Who It’s For

The course is aimed towards:

• Pilots who want to fly VFR without getting bogged down in technical deep dives
• Newcomers who’ve never used the radios or flown a circuit before
• IFR focused pilots looking to expand into the VFR world
• Anyone preparing to take on the P1 rating and looking for a stronger foundation

Ready to Get Started?
The VFR course is live on our Moodle platform and available to all eligible members.