Hello
I am a bit clueless on how Expert server works. I’m now in Grade 3 and have been that way for the past couple of months. Is it any different from the Training server? Will there be an ATC for every single airport?
Curious to know, any insights will greatly help!
Thanks!
No, not every single airport has ATC haha.
When it comes to airports without ATC you shouldn’t expect a huge difference to TS. Now, talking about scheduled ATC airports, you should expect a huge traffic, which I like tbh
Yes! There are more rules and restrictions on what you can do. I advise reading the Expert Server rulebook.
No, unfortunately. IFATC controllers can control airports of their choosing. You can check the monthly ATC schedule for what airports will likely be staffed, or check the IFATC Website for all active airports.
Definitely take a look on this pinned post as @mort said. Really nice how the IF team added winds forecast for the stations too! So, in other words you can KIND OF guess which approach you can request and file—be prepared to amend your flight plan though of course!
Most important thing I can tell you that comes to mind especially* being new: you will make mistakes. Pay attention to how other people around you are interacting with ATC and if you are confused: contact the controller on here after and they will get back to you at their earliest convenience.
*To be 1,000,000,000% clear: I STILL make mistakes, I got a level 3 violation a couple weeks ago.
Just learn from them and you’ll be fine!
Scheduled ATC airports? Are those the airports labeled as green in the flight map on bigger airports like JFK, LAX, EWR, etc?
Exactly. To plan your flights to or from airports with ATC you should check ATC Schedule | May 2025 - #3