Version 1.0 December 31, 2007
From January 1st, 2008, the VATSIM Global Ratings Policy (GRP) will come into effect. This policy re-defines the current rating system and defines 3 new controller ratings replacing the S1 to C3 classifications.
Under the GRP, the ratings change to the following classifications:Student (S1) becomes Aerodrome Controller
Senior Student (S3) becomes Approach Controller
Controller (C1) becomes Centre Controller
Senior Controller (C3) becomes Exceptional Controller
The Exceptional Controller (C3) is not defined in relation to a specific air traffic control position and is up to local divisions and vACC’s on if this rating will be used and how.
The policy defines the following:
An Aerodrome Controller (S1) will be allowed to provide a service on Delivery (DEL), Ground (GND) and Tower (TWR) positions.
An Approach Controller (S3) will be allowed to provide a service on Approach (APP) positions and all positions served by an Aerodrome Controller.
A Centre Controller (C1) and Exceptional Controller (C3) will be allowed to provide a service on Centre (CTR) positions and all positions served by an Approach Controller.
The Global Ratings Policy distinguishes between “major†and “minor†locations:
A “major†location is one which may have more complex procedures or more traffic than other locations. The policy states that an endorsement or set of requirements have to be fulfilled before a controller can control that position. This allows new members to consolidate training at less complex and quieter airports before moving on to more complex procedures and more traffic.
A “minor†location is considered as any position not specified as a “major†location. These locations are available to all members no matter what their training or controlling experience is. Obviously, members can only control at minor locations appropriate to their rating.
ROvACC Implementation
Bucharest Henri Coanda International Airport - formerly Otopeni (LROP) will be designated a “major†airport. In order to control at this airport, an over the shoulder (OTS) check will be required. The OTS will be conducted by the Training Director or any other approved person.
There will be a two part OTS, one for Aerodrome and one for Approach; however, the two OTS parts can be combined into one OTS for Approach Controllers and above.
All other airports are therefore designated minor airports and once reaching the correct rating a controller will be allowed to control all minor positions and any major positions that they have an approval for.
The roster will be kept updated with all Romanian members and will show if they have a major validation. If you have no validations then you can only control minor airports up to the appropriate ATC position.
At present the following members are approved to provide an OTS on major positions:
Alan Sutherland - Acting Training Director
Eric Bocaneanu - Director
If you have any questions regarding the Global Ratings Policy and/or the implementation of it with Romania, please contact the Training Director.