SOP

SKYWARD AIR VIRTUAL Standard Operating Procedures Manual Commercial Passenger Operations  |  All Simulator Platforms  |  VATSIM & IVAO
Document No. SOP-001	Version 1.0	Effective 2026	Classification Internal Use

1. Introduction & Purpose

This Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) Manual governs all aspects of flight operations, member conduct, and administrative processes at Skyward Air Virtual (SAV). Skyward Air Virtual is a commercial passenger virtual airline dedicated to replicating the standards, professionalism, and excitement of real-world scheduled airline operations across a global route network.

All registered SAV members — pilots, staff, and administrators — are required to read, understand, and comply with this document in its entirety before conducting any operations under the SAV banner.

1.1 Operational Focus

FOCUS: Skyward Air Virtual operates exclusively as a commercial passenger carrier. All scheduled flights carry virtual passengers and are operated to the standards expected of a real-world commercial airline. Cargo-only and general aviation operations are outside standard SAV operations unless specifically authorized as a special event.

1.2 Supported Simulator Platforms

SAV welcomes pilots on all major flight simulator platforms. All platforms are treated equally for PIREP crediting and rank progression:

Platform	Versions Supported	Notes
Microsoft Flight Simulator	MSFS 2020 & MSFS 2024	Recommended: FBW A32NX, PMDG series
X-Plane	X-Plane 12 (preferred), X-Plane 11	Recommended: Toliss, Zibo 738
Prepar3D	P3D v5 & v6	Recommended: PMDG, Aerosoft Professional
Other platforms	Considered case-by-case	Contact staff for approval

1.3 Online Network Affiliations

SAV officially supports and encourages operations on two online ATC networks. All network-related conduct must comply with the respective network's rules in addition to this SOP:

• VATSIM (Virtual Air Traffic Simulation Network) — vatsim.net
• IVAO (International Virtual Aviation Organisation) — ivao.aero

1.4 Document Control

Field	Details
Document Number	SOP-001
Issuing Authority	Chief Operations Officer, Skyward Air Virtual
Review Cycle	Annual, or upon significant policy changes
Amendment Process	Approved by VA leadership; distributed to all members via portal and Discord
Supersedes	N/A (Initial Release)

2. Membership & Registration

2.1 Eligibility Requirements

Membership is open to all flight simulation enthusiasts, regardless of skill level or simulator platform preference. Applicants must:

• Be at least 13 years of age (under-18 participants require documented parental consent)
• Hold a valid, personal email address for account verification and communications
• Own or have access to a supported flight simulator platform
• Read, understand, and formally accept this SOP and the SAV Pilot Handbook before first flight

2.2 Registration Procedure

1. Navigate to the SAV Pilot Portal and select 'Register New Pilot'
2. Complete the application form: full name (or display name), email, simulator platform, and hub preference
3. Read and electronically accept the SOP and Pilot Handbook
4. Verify your email address via the automated confirmation message
5. Download, install, and configure the SAV ACARS tracking client
6. Choose any aircraft you like, pick any route that interests you, and fly — that is your orientation flight
7. Submit your PIREP via the ACARS client or manual form; upon approval your SAV Pilot ID (format: SAV####) is issued and you are cleared for all operations

2.3 Pilot ID, Callsign & Livery

Each pilot receives a unique SAV Pilot ID upon registration. The following identification conventions apply across all operations:

Element	Convention
Pilot ID	SAV#### (e.g., SAV0042) — used in all PIREPs and portal communications
Network Callsign	SYW + flight number (e.g., SYW1101) for VATSIM/IVAO connections
SELCAL	Register a personal SELCAL code via the portal for long-haul HF operations
Livery	SAV house livery available for download per aircraft type in the pilot resources section

3. Code of Conduct

3.1 Guiding Principles

Skyward Air Virtual holds its members to the standards expected of professional airline crew. Every interaction — whether within the VA community, on VATSIM, on IVAO, or on social media — reflects on the airline and its members. The core conduct principles are:

• Professionalism: Act with the decorum of a commercial airline pilot at all times
• Respect: Treat all members, ATC controllers, and community participants with courtesy
• Integrity: Report flights accurately; never falsify data or misrepresent your qualifications
• Safety Culture: Prioritize correct procedures over expediency, even in a simulation environment

3.2 Prohibited Actions

The following are strictly prohibited and will result in immediate disciplinary review:

• Harassment, bullying, discrimination, or targeted abuse of any kind toward any person
• Deliberate disruption of VATSIM, IVAO, or in-simulator ATC operations
• Submission of falsified PIREPs or fabricated flight data
• Impersonating another SAV member, staff, or real-world aviation authority
• Sharing account credentials or operating on behalf of another pilot
• Use of cheats, hacks, or any unauthorized tools during a logged PIREP flight
• Conduct bringing disrepute to Skyward Air Virtual in any public forum or network

3.3 Network-Specific Conduct — VATSIM & IVAO

SAV pilots flying on VATSIM or IVAO are ambassadors of the airline. In addition to all network-specific regulations, the following SAV standards apply:

• Pilots must hold the minimum network pilot rating required for the airspace they intend to enter
• Voice communication is required in all Class A and B airspace; text-only is acceptable in lower-traffic environments
• All ATC instructions must be read back accurately and followed promptly
• Pilots must file a complete IFR flight plan before connecting to the network on any SAV-designated flight
• Declare 'MAYDAY' or 'PAN-PAN' for genuine in-sim emergencies; do not declare emergencies for practice without notifying ATC first

NOTE: If you receive a network warning, suspension, or infraction report from VATSIM or IVAO while operating as SAV, you must notify VA staff within 48 hours. Failure to self-report will be treated as an aggravating factor in any subsequent disciplinary process.

3.4 Disciplinary Process

Violations are handled through a graduated process proportionate to the severity and frequency of the conduct:

Level	Action	Typical Trigger
Level 1	Written Warning	Minor, first-time infraction; procedural error
Level 2	7–14 Day Suspension	Repeated Level 1; moderate conduct violation
Level 3	30–90 Day Suspension	Serious violation; VATSIM/IVAO infraction report
Level 4	Permanent Removal	Egregious violation; repeated Level 3; data fraud

All decisions are subject to appeal within 7 calendar days by written submission to the Chief Operations Officer.

4. Flight Operations Standards

4.1 Commercial Passenger Operations — General Requirements

All SAV flights are operated as commercial passenger services. Pilots are expected to treat every flight as if real passengers are aboard, adhering to the SOPs and service standards of a professional airline. This philosophy governs every decision from preflight planning through gate arrival.

4.2 Pre-Flight Planning Requirements

The following must be completed before commencing any SAV-logged flight:

1. Select a route from the SAV published route network or submit a charter/special flight request
2. Generate an Operational Flight Plan (OFP) using SimBrief or an equivalent dispatcher tool
3. Calculate fuel: Trip fuel + 5% contingency + alternate fuel + 30-minute final reserve minimum
4. Set virtual passenger and baggage load in accordance with aircraft weight limits
5. Obtain current METAR and TAF for departure, destination, and nominated alternate
6. Review applicable NOTAMs for all airports and airways on the route
7. Brief the planned SID and STAR; load them into the FMC/FMS before departure

4.3 Simulator Realism Standards

POLICY: Skyward Air Virtual takes a flexible but structured approach to realism settings. The table below distinguishes between required and encouraged settings. Flights not meeting required settings are subject to rejection; encouraged settings are strongly recommended but not enforced.

Setting	Required State	Notes
Crash/damage/stress detection	Encouraged	Strongly recommended for realism; not strictly required
Weather	Real-world or preset	'Clear skies' default is not permitted
ATC	Required (tiered)	Preferred: VATSIM or IVAO live ATC. If no ATC is online: UNICOM self-announce is acceptable. Offline simulator ATC is permitted in rare circumstances where no network option is available.
Slew mode	Prohibited	Any use during a logged flight invalidates the PIREP
Time acceleration	4x max, cruise only	Not permitted during taxi, climb, descent, or approach
Fuel	Realistic load per OFP	Fuel cannot exceed maximum tank capacity

4.4 Stabilized Approach Policy

SAV enforces a mandatory stabilized approach policy consistent with industry standards. By the applicable gate, the aircraft must meet all of the following criteria:

• On the correct lateral and vertical flight path (within 1 dot CDI/glideslope)
• At the correct approach speed (Vref + applicable additive, +10/-5 kts maximum deviation)
• In the correct landing configuration (gear down, flaps at landing setting)
• Thrust stabilized (not idle, not full power — a stabilized power setting)
• Sink rate not exceeding 1,000 ft/min (500 ft/min within 500 ft AGL)

GATE ALTITUDES: IMC (any ceiling/visibility below VMC): Stabilized by 1,000 ft AGL.  VMC (ceiling >1,000 ft, visibility >3 sm): Stabilized by 500 ft AGL.  If not stabilized at the gate — execute an immediate go-around. No exceptions.

4.5 PIREP Submission Standards

All flights intended for logbook credit must be submitted as a Pilot Report (PIREP) via the SAV ACARS client (preferred) or through the manual submission form in the pilot portal.

• PIREPs must be submitted within 24 hours of flight completion
• All data fields must be accurate — falsification is a Level 4 disciplinary offense
• Landing rate is automatically captured by ACARS; hard landings above -600 ft/min generate a review flag
• Minimum logged flight time: 20 minutes gate-to-gate (no minimum for ultra-long-haul)
• Significant deviations (diversions, holds exceeding 30 min, emergency declarations) must be noted in the comments field

4.6 Activity Requirements

To maintain active pilot status, a minimum of one (1) approved PIREP must be submitted every 60 days. Pilots who reach 60 days without a flight will receive an automated inactivity notice. After 90 days of inactivity without an approved Leave of Absence (LOA), the account may be suspended.

Leave of Absence requests are available via the pilot portal and may be granted for periods of 30–180 days. Extended LOAs beyond 180 days require staff approval.

5. Fleet & Route Network

5.1 SAV Commercial Passenger Fleet

The following aircraft types constitute the SAV operational fleet for commercial passenger services. Each type has a dedicated type page in the pilot resources section with checklists, performance data, and recommended add-on aircraft by platform.

Aircraft	Seats (Typical)	Range	Category	Access
Embraer E175	76	2,200 nm	Regional Jet	All Ranks
Airbus A220-300	130	3,400 nm	Narrowbody	All Ranks
Airbus A320neo	165	3,400 nm	Narrowbody	All Ranks
Boeing 737-800	162	3,115 nm	Narrowbody	All Ranks
Airbus A321XLR	180	4,700 nm	Narrowbody+	All Ranks
Boeing 787-9	296	7,565 nm	Widebody	All Ranks
Airbus A330-900neo	300	7,200 nm	Widebody	All Ranks
Boeing 777-300ER	396	7,370 nm	Heavy Widebody	All Ranks

5.2 Route Network Overview

SAV operates a global commercial passenger route network spanning six continents. Routes are categorized by flight duration and aircraft type compatibility:

Category	Duration	Typical Aircraft	Example Routes
Regional	Under 2 hrs	E175, A220	Intra-regional hops, spoke services
Short-Haul	2–4 hrs	A320neo, B737-800	Domestic trunk routes
Medium-Haul	4–7 hrs	A321XLR, A320neo	Trans-continental, regional international
Long-Haul	7–12 hrs	B787-9, A330-900	Intercontinental services
Ultra Long-Haul	12+ hrs	B777-300ER, B787-9	Non-stop ultra-long haul routes

5.3 Charter & Special Flight Requests

Pilots holding the rank of Captain or above may submit Charter Flight Requests for routes not listed in the published network. Requests must be submitted via the portal at least 24 hours before the planned departure and include: proposed route, aircraft type, estimated flight time, and reason for charter designation.

6. Rank & Progression System

6.1 Rank Structure

Rank is determined by total accumulated flight hours as recorded in the official SAV logbook. Promotions are automatic upon crossing each threshold. Pilots receive a notification and profile update when promoted.

Rank	Hours	Fleet Access	Key Privileges
Student Pilot	0–10	Full Fleet	Fly any aircraft and route from day one — your first PIREP is your orientation
Second Officer	11–50	Full Fleet	Full network access; growing experience
First Officer	51–200	Full Fleet	Long-haul international routes
Senior First Officer	201–500	Full Fleet	Hub support eligibility
Captain	501–1,000	Full Fleet	Charter requests; mentoring; staff eligibility
Senior Captain	1,001–2,500	Full Fleet	Training authority; event leadership
Check Airman	2,501+	Full Fleet	Type ratings; policy advisory; exec eligibility

6.2 Orientation Flight

At Skyward Air Virtual, there is no mandatory orientation checklist, no assigned route, and no minimum flight time. Your orientation flight is simply your first submitted PIREP — fly whatever aircraft you enjoy, on whatever route interests you, for as long or as short as you like.

Once that first PIREP is approved, your SAV Pilot ID is confirmed and you are a fully active member with no restrictions on aircraft type or route selection. We believe the best way to learn is by doing — so pick a plane and go.

PHILOSOPHY: Skyward Air Virtual is realistic but flexible. We trust our pilots to challenge themselves at their own pace. There is no gatekeeping here — just a community of passionate sim pilots who love to fly.

6.3 Type Rating Program

SAV operates a voluntary Type Rating program for pilots wishing to demonstrate formal proficiency on specific aircraft types. Type ratings are evaluated by Check Airmen via a submitted check flight recording and include assessment of: systems knowledge, checklist usage, normal and abnormal procedures, and airmanship standards. Completed type ratings are displayed as badges on the pilot profile.

7. Communications & Administration

7.1 Official Communication Channels

• SAV Pilot Portal: Primary source for announcements, PIREPs, logbook, and route information
• Discord Server: Real-time community engagement, staff support, and event coordination
• Email: Formal correspondence and account management notifications

7.2 Incident Reporting

Pilots must submit an Incident Report within 48 hours for any of the following events occurring during a logged PIREP flight: weather diversion to an alternate airport; in-flight emergency declaration on VATSIM or IVAO; technical failure requiring deviation from the filed flight plan; go-around followed by a second approach at the destination. Incident Reports are submitted via the portal and are treated confidentially.

7.3 Organizational Structure

Skyward Air Virtual is governed by an executive leadership team with the following structure:

• Chief Executive Officer — Overall strategy and final authority
• Chief Operations Officer — Day-to-day operations, SOP governance, fleet management
• Director of Training — Orientation program, type ratings, check airman management
• Director of Technology — Pilot portal, ACARS system, website, and IT infrastructure
• Hub Managers — Regional hubs oversight and local pilot support
• Check Airmen — Type rating examiners, orientation reviewers, training supervisors

7.4 Staff Applications

Staff vacancies are announced on Discord and the SAV portal. All applicants must hold Captain rank or above, be in good standing with no active disciplinary actions, and have logged a minimum of 500 flight hours with SAV. Applications are reviewed on merit by the executive team.

8. Amendment Record

Rev.	Date	Section(s)	Summary
1.0	2026	All	Initial release of SAV Standard Operating Procedures Manual

IMPORTANT: This document supersedes all previous versions and informal policy communications. It is the responsibility of every SAV member to ensure they are reading the current version, available at any time from the SAV Pilot Portal.

— End of Document — SOP-001 v1.0 — Skyward Air Virtual —

PILOT HANDBOOK Skyward Air Virtual  |  Commercial Passenger Operations PHB-001  |  Version 1.0  |  2026
Commercial Passenger Full-service scheduled airline operations across a global route network.	All Simulator Platforms MSFS 2020/2024  |  X-Plane 12  |  Prepar3D v5/v6  |  Other platforms welcome.	Online Networks VATSIM & IVAO — both fully supported. Offline operations also welcome.

Welcome Aboard, Captain

WELCOME: Congratulations on joining Skyward Air Virtual — one of the world's premier commercial passenger virtual airlines. From your first regional hop in the E175 to commanding a 777-300ER across the Pacific, your journey starts here. This handbook is your complete guide to flying, progressing, and thriving in our community.

Skyward Air Virtual (SAV) replicates the experience of a real-world scheduled airline. We operate a diverse fleet of modern commercial passenger aircraft on an expanding global route network, with full support for every major simulator platform and both major online ATC networks — VATSIM and IVAO.

This handbook covers everything you need from your first day to Check Airman rank. Keep it as a reference — you will find yourself coming back to it throughout your SAV career.

Our Airline	Our Platforms	Our Networks
Commercial passenger scheduled services on a global network, to the highest standards of virtual airline professionalism.	MSFS 2020/2024, X-Plane 12, Prepar3D v5/v6, and other platforms. No pilot is excluded based on their simulator choice.	Full support for VATSIM and IVAO. Offline flying is equally valid. Online flying is encouraged but never mandatory.

Chapter 1: Getting Started

1.1 What You Need

Before your first SAV flight, make sure you have the following ready:

• A supported flight simulator (MSFS 2020/2024, X-Plane 12, Prepar3D v5/v6, or equivalent)
• A registered and verified SAV pilot account — see Section 1.2
• The SAV ACARS tracking client installed and connected to your simulator
• An aircraft add-on suitable for your first route (freeware options are perfectly acceptable)
• If flying online: a VATSIM or IVAO account, applicable pilot rating, and network client (vPilot / xPilot / X-IvAp)

1.2 Registering Your Account

1	Visit the SAV Pilot Portal •  Go to https://crew.skywardair.xyz/ and click 'Register' •  Fill in your display name, email address, home hub preference, and primary simulator platform

2	Accept the Rules & Handbook •  Read and accept the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP-001) and this Pilot Handbook •  These agreements are legally binding within the VA community

3	Verify Your Email •  Check your inbox for the SAV confirmation email •  Click the verification link — your account is now active

4	Install the ACARS Client •  Download the SAV ACARS client from the portal's Downloads section •  Install, launch, and log in with your SAV credentials •  In Settings, point the client to your simulator's executable file •  Green status light = ready to track flights automatically

5

Fly Your First Flight — Your Way •  Pick any aircraft you enjoy and any route that interests you — there are no restrictions •  Submit your PIREP via ACARS or the manual form — that is your orientation flight •  Once approved, your SAV Pilot ID is confirmed and you have full access to all operations

1.3 Choosing Your Home Hub

Your home hub is your base of operations within the SAV network. It determines your default scheduling preference and affects which routes appear first in your route recommendations. Hubs are located at major airports across SAV's global network. You can request a hub transfer via the portal after 90 days.

TIP: Pick a hub in your own time zone — it makes it much easier to find other SAV pilots online and to join events without unusual hours.

Chapter 2: Your Simulator Platform

2.1 Platform Equality Policy

SAV is proud to be a multi-platform virtual airline. Every pilot, regardless of simulator choice, receives full and equal credit for flights in the SAV logbook. There are no platform-exclusive routes, rank restrictions, or award categories. The SAV ACARS client supports all major platforms.

2.2 Recommended Aircraft Add-Ons by Platform

Microsoft Flight Simulator (MSFS 2020 & 2024)

Aircraft	Add-On	Cost	Notes
Airbus A320neo	FlyByWire A32NX	Free	Industry benchmark; exceptional systems depth
Airbus A220-300	Microsoft/Asobo default or payware	Varies	Check pilot resources for recommended options
Boeing 737-800	PMDG 737-800	Payware	Premium accuracy; full FMC, systems simulation
Boeing 787-9	Microsoft default / Salty 74S for 747	Free/Payware	Payware options offer deeper systems
Embraer E175	Embraer E170/175 by X-Works	Payware	Excellent regional jet; great for training

X-Plane 12

Aircraft	Add-On	Cost	Notes
Airbus A320neo	Toliss A321neo (covers A320 family)	Payware	Top-tier systems fidelity
Boeing 737-800	ZIBO 738 (modified default)	Free	Community legend; very capable
Boeing 787-9	FlightFactor 787 (v2)	Payware	Full EFIS, good for long-haul training
Embraer E175	X-Crafts E175	Payware	Solid regional; ACARS compatible

Prepar3D v5 / v6

Aircraft	Add-On	Cost	Notes
Boeing 737-800	PMDG 737NGXu	Payware	P3D gold standard
Boeing 777-300ER	PMDG 777	Payware	Exceptional heavy jet simulation
Airbus A320 family	Aerosoft A320 Professional	Payware	User-friendly; good for progression
Embraer 175	Aerosoft E-Jets	Payware	Good regional option for P3D

NOTE: You do not need to own a payware add-on to fly with SAV. High-quality freeware is entirely valid. The recommendations above are simply community-tested options known to work well with the SAV ACARS client.

Chapter 3: Your First Flight — Step by Step

3.1 Selecting a Route

Log in to the Pilot Portal and open the Route Map. At Skyward Air Virtual, there are no restrictions on your first flight — pick any aircraft in our fleet and any route on the network that appeals to you. Not sure where to start? Here are a few suggestions to make your first experience enjoyable:

• A route from your home hub so you are already familiar with the departure airport
• Daytime departure if you are less familiar with instrument procedures — less workload to start
• Any aircraft in the fleet that you enjoy flying — there are no restrictions

3.2 Generating Your Flight Plan

SAV recommends using SimBrief (simbrief.com) to generate a professional Operational Flight Plan (OFP) for every flight. SimBrief is free and produces realistic fuel calculations, route data, and weather. Set your airline ICAO code to 'SYW' in your SimBrief profile.

1. Log in to SimBrief and click 'New Flight'
2. Enter your departure (ORIG), destination (DEST), and alternate (ALTN) ICAOs
3. Select your aircraft type from the list
4. Set payload: use a realistic passenger load (e.g., 75–85% for typical routes)
5. Click 'Generate OFP' — review the fuel figures and route
6. Export the flight plan to your simulator's format using the SimBrief Downloader or Navigraph SimLink

3.3 Pre-Flight Checks

Before Launching the Simulator

• METAR checked for departure and destination (aviationweather.gov or Navigraph Charts)
• OFP printed or saved — fuel figures, route, alternates reviewed
• SAV ACARS client launched and showing green (connected) status
• If flying online: VATSIM/IVAO client ready; pilot rating verified for planned airspace

In the Cockpit — Preflight Flow

1. Power up aircraft per the type-specific Normal Checklist (available in Pilot Resources)
2. Load SimBrief OFP into FMC/FMS — route, cost index, cruise altitude, alternates
3. Set fuel to OFP planned fuel load (do not over-fuel)
4. Set passenger/cargo load per SimBrief OFP figures
5. Obtain ATIS; set altimeter QNH
6. Request IFR clearance from ATC (VATSIM/IVAO preferred; UNICOM if no ATC online; offline ATC in rare circumstances)
7. Complete Before-Start checklist items

3.4 Departure

1. Request pushback and startup when ready
2. Complete After-Start and Before-Taxi checklists
3. Request taxi clearance; follow airport diagram to assigned runway
4. Line up, complete Before-Takeoff checklist: flaps set, trim, flight controls free, transponder ALT mode
5. When cleared: advance thrust, call out V1 / Vr / V2 at appropriate speeds
6. Rotate smoothly at Vr; establish positive climb rate; call 'Gear Up'
7. Follow SID or radar vectors; comply with all speed and altitude restrictions

3.5 Cruise

• Climb to filed cruise altitude; engage VNAV/autothrottle as appropriate for the aircraft
• Monitor fuel burn every 30 minutes — compare actual vs. OFP planned figures
• Obtain destination ATIS approximately 150 nm or 20 min before top of descent
• Brief the arrival: STAR, approach type, runway, missed approach, minimums
• Calculate top of descent (TOD) using the FMC, or rule of thumb: 3 x altitude (in thousands of feet) = distance in nm

3.6 Descent, Approach & Landing

1. Begin descent at calculated TOD; comply with all STAR speed and altitude restrictions
2. Obtain landing clearance and runway confirmation
3. Configure aircraft on downwind/base: reduce speed, extend flaps progressively
4. Establish on ILS/approach; gear down by 8 nm from threshold
5. By stabilization gate (1,000 ft AGL IMC / 500 ft AGL VMC): on speed, on path, configured, stable thrust
6. If not stabilized — go around immediately; no exceptions
7. Touchdown in the touchdown zone; apply reverse thrust and brakes smoothly
8. Vacate runway promptly; contact Ground for taxi to gate

STABILIZED APPROACH: This is non-negotiable. A stabilized approach saves real lives — and in the sim it builds the habits that matter. If you are not stable at the gate, go around. A go-around is a professional maneuver, not a failure.

3.7 Post-Flight & PIREP Submission

1. Complete shutdown checklist; all engines and APU off at gate
2. In the SAV ACARS client, click 'Complete Flight' — review the auto-filled PIREP data
3. Confirm: departure/destination, aircraft type, flight time, fuel used, and landing rate
4. Add comments for any notable events (diversions, holds, go-arounds)
5. Click 'Submit PIREP' — your hours are added to your logbook upon approval
6. ACARS PIREPs are auto-approved; manual PIREPs are reviewed within 24 hours

Chapter 4: Flying Online — VATSIM & IVAO

4.1 Why Fly Online?

Flying on VATSIM or IVAO transforms your simulation experience. Real human controllers manage real-time airspace, giving you authentic clearances, holds, traffic conflicts, and the full satisfaction of professional radio communication. SAV strongly encourages online flying — some awards and recognition are specifically linked to online hours.

That said, online flying is never mandatory. Every flight on any platform, online or offline, counts equally toward your rank progression.

4.2 Getting Set Up on Each Network

VATSIM

1. Register at vatsim.net — a free account takes about 5 minutes
2. Complete the VATSIM Basic Pilot Training (P1 rating) — required to fly on the network
3. Download vPilot (Windows/MSFS/P3D) or xPilot (X-Plane) from vatsim.net
4. Add your VATSIM CID to your SAV pilot profile for cross-referencing

IVAO

1. Register at ivao.aero — free account
2. Complete the IVAO Basic Pilot Training (PPL) before flying
3. Download IvAp (P3D) or X-IvAp (X-Plane) or the MSFS connector from ivao.aero
4. Add your IVAO VID to your SAV pilot profile

TIP: Both VATSIM and IVAO have excellent training programs that will make you a significantly better simmer, even if you fly offline most of the time. The phraseology and procedure knowledge carries over to offline ATC interaction too.

4.3 Connecting and Flying

1. Open your network client (vPilot, xPilot, IvAp, etc.)
2. Log in with your network credentials
3. Set callsign to SAV format: SYW + flight number (e.g., SYW1101)
4. Select aircraft type (ICAO type designator, e.g., A320, B738, B789)
5. File your IFR flight plan through the client or network website before connecting
6. Connect to the network; confirm text and voice communication functional
7. Contact Delivery or Ground with your startup/pushback request

4.4 Radio Communication Guide

Clear, professional radio communication is a core SAV skill. The standard format for any transmission is: Who you're calling + Who you are + Where you are + What you want.

Standard Call Examples

Phase	Example Transmission
IFR Clearance	"London Heathrow Delivery, SKY AIR ONE ONE ZERO ONE, gate T5-B32, A320, request IFR clearance to Amsterdam Schiphol, information Delta."
Pushback & Start	"Heathrow Ground, SKY AIR ONE ONE ZERO ONE, gate T5-B32, request pushback and startup."
Taxi	"Heathrow Ground, SKY AIR ONE ONE ZERO ONE, information Delta, request taxi."
Takeoff	"Heathrow Tower, SKY AIR ONE ONE ZERO ONE, holding short Runway 27L, ready for departure."
Descent Check-in	"Amsterdam Approach, SKY AIR ONE ONE ZERO ONE, descending FL180, information Golf."
Approach	"Schiphol Tower, SKY AIR ONE ONE ZERO ONE, established ILS Runway 18R."
Vacating	"Schiphol Ground, SKY AIR ONE ONE ZERO ONE, vacated Runway 18R, request taxi to gate."

4.5 Handling Difficult Situations

Even experienced pilots encounter situations on the network that require good judgment. Here is how SAV pilots are expected to handle common scenarios:

• Cannot comply with a clearance: "Unable [instruction], request [alternative]." — never simply ignore it
• Missed a readback or callsign: Listen for the controller to repeat; if silence, call "[Callsign], say again."
• Lost comms: Squawk 7600; try the last frequency, guard frequency 121.5, and text the controller
• In-flight emergency: Squawk 7700; transmit "MAYDAY MAYDAY MAYDAY, [callsign], [nature of emergency], [intentions]"
• Controller offline / freq change: Monitor 122.800 (VATSIM UNICOM) or 122.800 (IVAO UNICOM) and self-announce

Chapter 5: PIREPs, Logbook & Awards

5.1 How the ACARS System Works

When the SAV ACARS client is running and connected to your simulator, it automatically captures your entire flight from the moment you release the parking brake to the moment you set it at the destination gate. At the end of your flight, you review a pre-filled PIREP and submit it with one click.

The ACARS system captures: departure and destination airports, block times, airborne times, fuel loaded and consumed, maximum altitude, route flown, and your touchdown landing rate. All of this is stored in your permanent SAV logbook.

5.2 Manual PIREP Reference

If the ACARS client is unavailable, submit via the portal's Manual PIREP form. Complete every field accurately:

Field	Required	Details
Pilot ID	Yes	Your SAV ID — e.g., SAV0042
Flight Number	Yes	SAV route or SYW + number (e.g., SYW1101)
Departure Airport	Yes	4-letter ICAO code (e.g., EGLL)
Destination Airport	Yes	4-letter ICAO code (e.g., EHAM)
Alternate Airport	Recommended	ICAO of planned alternate
Aircraft Type	Yes	Type flown (e.g., A320neo, B738)
Simulator Platform	Yes	MSFS 2024, X-Plane 12, P3D v6, etc.
Online Network	Yes	VATSIM / IVAO / Offline
Departure Time (UTC)	Yes	Block-off time in HH:MM Zulu format
Arrival Time (UTC)	Yes	Block-on time in HH:MM Zulu format
Flight Time	Yes	Airborne gate-to-gate (HH:MM)
Fuel Used	Yes	Total fuel consumed (lbs or kg)
Landing Rate	Yes	Touchdown rate ft/min (estimate if unknown)
Route Flown	Yes	SID, airways, STAR as filed or actual
Comments	Optional	Diversions, holds, go-arounds, notable events

5.3 Awards & Recognition

SAV's award system celebrates pilot milestones and exceptional contributions to the community. Awards appear as badges on your public pilot profile.

Award	Criterion
First Flight	Complete your SAV orientation flight
Century Wings	Log 100 cumulative flight hours with SAV
500 Hour Bar	Log 500 cumulative flight hours
Globe Trotter	Log at least one flight on each of five continents
Ironbird	Complete a single flight of 12 hours or more
Smooth Operator	Land 10 consecutive flights at -200 ft/min or better
VATSIM Wings	Log 25 flights while connected to VATSIM
IVAO Wings	Log 25 flights while connected to IVAO
Dual Network Pilot	Earn both VATSIM Wings and IVAO Wings
All-Platform Ace	Log flights on three different simulator platforms
Community Mentor	Complete the SAV Mentorship Program as a mentor
Community Builder	Successfully refer 5 new pilots who complete orientation
Perfect Attendance	Log at least one flight in every calendar month for a full year

Chapter 6: Rank, Training & Type Ratings

6.1 Your Progression Path

Your SAV rank is automatically updated by the system whenever you cross a flight-hour threshold. Ranks unlock access to heavier and longer-range aircraft, and open doors to leadership and training roles within the VA.

Rank	Hours Required	Aircraft Access	What Opens Up
Student Pilot	0 – 10	Full Fleet	Fly any aircraft and any route from day one
Second Officer	11 – 50	Full Fleet	Growing experience; community recognition
First Officer	51 – 200	Full Fleet	Long-haul international routes
Senior First Officer	201 – 500	Full Fleet	Hub support eligibility; charter co-pilot
Captain	501 – 1,000	Full Fleet	Charter flight requests; mentor eligibility; staff applications
Senior Captain	1,001 – 2,500	Full Fleet	Training authority; special event leadership; policy input
Check Airman	2,501+	Full Fleet	Type rating examination; orientation reviews; executive team eligibility

6.2 Orientation Flight Details

Your orientation flight at Skyward Air Virtual is refreshingly simple — it is just your first flight. There is no assigned aircraft, no mandatory route, no minimum duration, and no examiner watching over your shoulder. Pick the plane you want to fly, pick a route that excites you, meet the standard realism requirements, and submit your PIREP.

Once that first PIREP is approved, your Pilot ID is confirmed and you have unrestricted access to the full SAV operation. We want you in the air as fast as possible — the community and the experience will do the rest.

REMEMBER: You do not need to be perfect on your first flight. Nobody is. SAV is here to help you grow as a pilot, and that journey starts the moment you submit your first PIREP.

6.3 Type Rating Program

The SAV Type Rating is a voluntary program that demonstrates your formal proficiency on a specific aircraft. Completing a type rating earns a badge on your pilot profile and is recognized in the community as a mark of expertise.

Check Flight Requirements

A type rating check flight must be submitted as a video or screen-recorded flight to a Check Airman for evaluation. The check flight must include:

1. Normal departure with full checklist usage and FMC-managed SID departure
2. Cruise segment demonstrating VNAV/autothrottle management and fuel monitoring
3. Instrument approach to published minimums (ILS Cat I minimum or lower preferred)
4. A missed approach executed from decision height / minimum descent altitude
5. Return for a second approach and full-stop landing

The Check Airman will assess: systems knowledge, checklist discipline, normal and abnormal procedures, communication, and airmanship. Results are communicated within 7 days of submission.

6.4 Mentorship Program

New SAV pilots (Student Pilot through First Officer) can request a personal mentor through the #mentorship channel on Discord. Mentors are Senior First Officers and above who volunteer to help newer pilots with route planning, aircraft systems, network flying, and general guidance. To request a mentor, post your rank, platform, and any specific areas you'd like help with.

Chapter 7: Resources & Tools

7.1 Essential Tools for SAV Pilots

Tool	Platform	Cost	Purpose
SAV ACARS Client	All platforms	Free (SAV)	Automatic PIREP tracking and submission
SimBrief	Web / all sim	Free	Professional OFP, fuel planning, route generation
Navigraph Charts	Web / app	Subscription	Current Jeppesen charts for all airports worldwide
Little Navmap	All simulators	Free	Moving map, flight planning, weather overlay
SkyVector	Web	Free	VFR/IFR en-route charts, flight plan filing
NOAA Aviation Weather	Web	Free	METAR, TAF, SIGMETs, PIREPs, AIRMETs
Flightradar24 / FlightAware	Web	Free tier	Real-world route reference and schedule lookup
vPilot	MSFS / P3D	Free	VATSIM pilot client (Windows)
xPilot	X-Plane	Free	VATSIM pilot client (X-Plane)
X-IvAp	X-Plane	Free	IVAO pilot client (X-Plane)
IvAp	P3D	Free	IVAO pilot client (Prepar3D)

7.2 SAV Pilot Portal — Key Sections

• Dashboard: Flight stats, recent PIREPs, rank progress bar, upcoming events
• Logbook: Full approved PIREP history, hours breakdown by aircraft and route
• Route Map: Interactive global network map with filters by aircraft, duration, and hub
• Fleet & Resources: Type pages with checklists, performance tables, and add-on recommendations
• Awards: Earned awards and progress toward upcoming milestones
• NOTAM Board: Temporary route changes, event announcements, and operational notices
• Staff Directory: Contact details for all SAV staff members

7.3 Getting Help

• Discord #help-desk: Fastest response — monitored by staff and senior pilots around the clock
• Discord #pirep-support: For PIREP questions, discrepancies, or manual PIREP submissions
• Discord #atc-training: Tips and resources for VATSIM/IVAO phraseology and procedures
• Portal Support Ticket: For formal account issues, appeal submissions, or data corrections

REMEMBER: There are no silly questions in aviation. Every Check Airman and Senior Captain in SAV was once a Student Pilot. The community is here to help you grow — use it freely.

Chapter 8: Quick Reference

New Pilot Quick-Start Checklist

Step	Action	Status
1	Register at the SAV Pilot Portal and verify your email	[ ] Done
2	Read and accept the SOP (SOP-001) and Pilot Handbook (PHB-001)	[ ] Done
3	Download and configure the SAV ACARS client	[ ] Done
4	Join the SAV Discord server	[ ] Done
5	Register on VATSIM (vatsim.net) and/or IVAO (ivao.aero) — recommended	[ ] Done
6	Install network pilot client (vPilot / xPilot / IvAp)	[ ] Done
7	Pick any aircraft and route you like — fly your first flight	[ ] Done
8	Submit your PIREP via ACARS or the manual form to receive your SAV Pilot ID	[ ] Done
9	Receive your SAV Pilot ID and First Flight Award	[ ] Done
10	Begin logging flights toward Second Officer rank (10 hours)!	[ ] In Progress

Key Aviation Abbreviations

Term	Meaning
ACARS	Aircraft Communications Addressing & Reporting System — SAV's flight tracking client
AGL	Above Ground Level — altitude measured from the ground directly beneath the aircraft
ATIS	Automatic Terminal Information Service — recorded airport weather/NOTAM broadcast
FAF	Final Approach Fix — point where the instrument approach officially begins
FMC / FMS	Flight Management Computer / System — the aircraft's onboard navigation computer
IMC / VMC	Instrument / Visual Meteorological Conditions — determines applicable flight rules
ILS	Instrument Landing System — precision approach guidance (localizer + glideslope)
LOA	Leave of Absence — formal request to pause activity requirements
METAR	Meteorological Aerodrome Report — current observed weather at an airport
NOTAMs	Notices to Airmen — temporary operational information about airspace, airports, aids
OFP	Operational Flight Plan — dispatcher-generated plan with route, fuel, weather, and W&B
PIREP	Pilot Report — official record of a completed SAV flight
QNH	Local altimeter setting (hectopascals or inches Hg) — sets altimeter to field elevation
SID / STAR	Standard Instrument Departure / Arrival — published ATC procedures
SELCAL	Selective Calling — system allowing ATC to alert a specific aircraft on HF radio
TAF	Terminal Aerodrome Forecast — weather forecast for an airport (typically 24–30 hrs)
TOD	Top of Descent — point where descent from cruise altitude begins
UTC / Zulu	Universal Coordinated Time — global aviation standard; same as GMT/Z
V1	Decision speed — above V1, continue the takeoff even with an engine failure
Vr	Rotate speed — speed at which to begin the takeoff rotation
Vref	Reference approach speed — base target speed for the approach and landing

Clear skies and tailwinds from everyone at Skyward Air Virtual.

— End of Pilot Handbook — PHB-001 v1.0 —