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Requesting Taxi Clearance on VATSIM

Requesting Taxi Clearance on VATSIM

Once your pushback is complete and you've coordinated with the ground crew (if using GSX for ground services), your next step is to request taxi clearance from ATC. This procedure is vital for integrating seamlessly into the active airport environment and proceeding to the runway in a manner that ensures both your safety and the efficiency of airport operations. Below is a guide to properly request and confirm your taxi clearance on VATSIM.

Before Requesting Taxi:

  • Squawk Mode C: Ensure your transponder is set to "Mode C" to transmit your altitude information. This setting is crucial for ATC to track your aircraft on ground radar accurately.
  • Format for Request: Your request should succinctly communicate your readiness to taxi, including your current location and the ATIS information you've received.
[Controller ID], [Your Callsign], at [location/gate], with Information [ATIS letter], ready to taxi.

Example Request:

"Las Vegas Ground, UAL1179, at gate D9, with Information Delta, ready to taxi."

Receiving Taxi Instructions:

  • The controller will respond with your taxi clearance, outlining your path to the assigned runway. It's essential to note these instructions in your pilot client for reference.
  • Pay careful attention to any instructions regarding hold shorts or runway crossings, as these are critical for maintaining safe ground operations.

Example Instruction and Readback:

Instruction from ATC:

"UAL1179, taxi to Runway 19R via taxiways Charlie, Golf, Delta, hold short of Runway 19L."

Your Readback:

"Taxi to Runway 19R via Charlie, Golf, Delta, hold short of Runway 19L, UAL1179."

During Taxi:

  • As you taxi, remain vigilant for other aircraft on your path and any intersecting taxiways. Adhering to your assigned route and any hold short instructions is paramount for safety.
  • Approaching the runway, ATC may direct you to switch to another controller (e.g., tower) for takeoff clearance or provide further instructions.

Transition to Takeoff:

  • Upon nearing the runway, if instructed by ATC to change frequency, acknowledge the handoff with a readback of the new frequency and proceed to contact the next controller.

Key Takeaways:

Requesting and receiving taxi clearance on VATSIM requires clear communication and adherence to ATC instructions. By following the established protocol and maintaining awareness during taxi, pilots contribute to the smooth operation of virtual airport environments, enhancing the realism and enjoyment of the VATSIM experience for all participants.

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