How Flight Sim Training Improved my Radio as a Pilot

Click here to learn more about online viewing.

Speaking on the radio with ATC embodies a lot of a pilots workload.  Sometimes pilots like to speak too much while transmitting on frequency, leading to frequency congestion, confusion, and can overall be an annoyance.  SCFC pilot Brandan Dadoun has an interesting story about how his time training to be a controller on VATSIM, the virtual air traffic simulation network, actually improved his understanding and ability as a pilot.

As you may imagine, real life air traffic controllers go through extensive radio and procedures training.  It turns out the same is true for people training to be virtual air traffic controllers on VATSIM. Over three years, Brandan studied the basics of airspace, airport and enroute procedures, LOAs, and detailed procedural training for all of Northern California and Oakland Center.  Under supervised training, he was able to work up to controlling Oakland Center. Now, he trains others in ATC procedures in the SF Bay Area.

SCFC has invited Brandan to share what he has learned from virtual air traffic management, and how it informs his ability to use the radio effectively as a pilot.  He has tips/references to the AIM on how to become a better pilot on the radio. He will also interactively show crucial examples of how being “lazy” or careless about radio phraseology can lead to disaster.  Learn how to spot the confusion within multiple examples of bad phraseology, and ultimately become safer in the skies.

If you are a student pilot, private, or instrument pilot looking for ways to brush up their radio, and airspace during these uneasy times, don’t miss out on this seminar.

Brandan Dadoun is a Student Pilot solo and SCFC’s Seminar Coordinator, Brandan has completed the majority of his flight training at SCFC; with over 75 flight hours. He is an advocate for getting youth involved in aviation and is actively involved in many aviation programs. He is an active volunteer at the Hiller Aviation Museum, and previously an active volunteer in the local EAA chapter. Lastly, he has been apart of the organization VATSIM for over 4 years virtually controlling airplanes across the Bay Area and training other ATC candidates.

San Carlos Flight Center (SCFC) is the SF Bay Area’s most dynamic flying club, committed to building general aviation thought safety, community, and adventure. AOPA has consistently recognized SCFC in their Best Flight School survey, most recently in 2019 as a Distinguished Flight School.

SCFC is committed to promoting safety in general aviation through our regular safety seminars and guest speaker programs. Space is often limited so it is important to sign up early. SCFC members may choose to watch the seminar live over the web at home, or recorded at a later date. Click here or contact a SCFC member service rep at (650) 946-1700 for more information about online access.