First five steps for pilots

1. Registration at IVAO

If you haven't done so yet, you can register now. Read carefully all the instructions that are part of the individual registration steps. Make sure you select the Slovak division as your division. It is also recommended to sign up for the division mailing list so that you are always informed about divisional news by the staff. You can register „HERE“: [http://www.ivao.aero/…register.htm].

2. Download and install the software

In order to fly online, you will need the following software:

IvAp is a virtual pilot client. It is the software that connects your flight simulator to the network. FSX users can download the FSX version and X-Plane users can download X-IvAp.
Teamspeak allows pilots and controllers to communicate with each other by voice. Text communication is also possible, but the experience is much more realistic using voice communication.
IvAe gives you an overview of the current situation on the network without having to be connected to it. Through this program you can get information about ongoing flights, online ATC positions, METARs, events, scheduling, network statistics and much more.
IvAi is a means to be able to drive from a turret view in FSX. It connects your FSX with IvAc. However, this does not mean the possibility of dual connection.

3. Preparation

You don't need to be an aviation expert to fly online. However, it is very important:

  • pay attention to the instructions for the software used
  • to be familiar with your flight simulator (e.g. FS2004, FSX, X-Plane, etc.)
  • to be able to control the aircraft you want to use at IVAO.
  • According to IVAO rules, you should be able to follow basic ATC instructions (heading, altitude, speed)
  • The necessary training materials for expanding the horizon can be found in the section Downloads → Pilots

If you are in doubt about any of these points, it would be best to ask for help before your first online flight. The division has a training department where people are designated just for this purpose. Don't hesitate to use it…

4. Connection

Here are some tips that may come in handy before you connect to the network for the first time:

  • use an aircraft that you know well and are comfortable with.
  • always place your aircraft on the stand/gate on the apron. Don't join parked on the track, for obvious reasons…and possible consequences…
  • on the IVAO network, pilots who communicate by voice (Teamspeak) and not by text are preferred in the controlled space.

5. Useful links

Flight Schedules

„RW FPL DB“: [http://www.edi-gla.co.uk/fpl/index.php] – Database of real flights, registration is required which is free.
„Vataware“: [http://vataware.com/] – Useful site for flight planning (Top Routes link in the menu)

Flight Planning

Simbrief – The best free flight planner, also generates flightplans for FSX and various aircraft (PMDG, Aerosoft, LevelD). Requires free registration
Simroutes – Flight plan generator, no registration required.
EuroWX – Comprehensive briefing

Worth a Watch

Decoding the meter – PDF instructions for decoding the meter.
„Webeye“: [http://webeye.ivao.aero/] – Online map for monitoring activity at IVAU.

The IVAO community is very friendly, informative and approachable. Although this hobby is more knowledge intensive, don't worry about making a fool of yourself…you won't! Each of us started once! Be sure to log in to our forum and enter the new world that IVAO definitely is…you'll wonder why you haven't flown online before and you'll never want to again go back to offline flying…

See you ONLINE!


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