Share Your Experience as IFATC!

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Hey Infinite Flight Community! This post is mainly aimed towards Infinite Flight Air Traffic Controllers (IFATC) in Infinite Flight, to know and give me an idea on what it’s like to be an IFATC Controller on a day to day basis. However I really encourage aspiring IFATC controllers to hear everyone’s story and even my journey to becoming one myself.

Chapter 1: Steps To Acceptance

A month or two ago I had made a post on wanting to hear IFATC controllers journeys from how they become an Infinite Flight Pilot to an ATC Controller. Around this time I had 2 attempts left at the IFATC knowledge test, which honestly really sucked.

I soon found myself lost and unsure if IFATC was for me and still unsure till this day, as ATC Controlling isin’t possible for people with ADHD, like myself (see image below)

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Which honestly made me feel really discouraged and feeling like giving up. Although I’m still trying to find the right motivation to keep going, I thought I might as well create this post to hear what it’s like to be an IFATC Controllers, to really build motivation from others story’s.

So please, feel free to leave your experiences below on how it feels every day to be an IFATC Controller, the challenges you face, the pros and cons. And maybe if you can a few words of encouragement.

Note from me:
I would love to read and reply to every single reply because it shows you really support me on this journey I’m on and shows the type of person you are to the community. As this is something I want to work hard for and I know it will be worth it.

Final Closing
  • Why I created this post?
    I want to hear the voices of IFATC controllers who actively work hard on keeping the Infinite Flight Experts servers as similar as it can get to real life. This post can be the place where you can share the challenges, the ups and downs of being an IFATC controller, where your voice is heard by not only myself, but other aspiring IFATC Controllers.
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Reason I’m making this post is because I’m really unsure if I should keep going, I know IFATC or ATC Controlling in general is very stressful, requires a lot of concentration and precision.

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It’s honestly a great thing to be a part of.

I first joined IFATC back in May 2023 - in fact I failed my first attempt at the practical test because in hindsight, I had no idea what I was doing :joy:. I did some training under the excellent guidance of @Sycline and my recruiter @Antoine_Turrian and I passed the second time around.

After some time controlling local frequencies, I decided I wanted to try out for radar - it was a long training process which was overseen by @Danish - and he definitely put me through my paces on a few occasions (that 20+ pilot training session stays in my mind to this day). Under the guidance of him and my recruiter @NJ24, I was able to pass my radar practical first time around.

It was then smooth sailing for around a year. I was controlling from time to time, attending lots of sessions helping train other pilots. Then in July 2024, I decided to take a break from IFATC. I came back in December 2024, and I eventually worked my way back to controlling radar. Special thanks to those who assisted the second time around, particularly @Mattchew who was my radar trainer and provided a very efficient regimen for the radar test.

IFATC is not just about controlling on Expert Server. You can also help train and test people wanting to join IFATC/gain Radar controlling capabilities. There are those in the group who are in charge of recruiting and training pilots, those who are part of the Appeals team who deal with violation appeals. There are so many routes you can go in the team, and everyone’s input is appreciated.

For me personally, while I do control every so often, and there are those who do control every day, my favourite part of IFATC is helping train and test pilots.

I’m definitely not going to lie when I say it definitely does require near-full concentration when controlling, particularly at a busy airport, and it can be a tad stressful at times. However the solution to that would be to always control at quieter airports, and there’s nothing wrong with that.

I don’t feel it would be right to tell you what you should and shouldn’t do. If you want to keep trying, go for it!

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Hey there!

As I said when I shared my whole IFATC story here, I’ve been in IFATC for a long time now (although there are many people who have been part of the team for way more time than I have), so I know how things work there.

What I really like about IFATC is that most of the things are very organized and that there are some precise rules to follow, which are all listed in the ATC Manual and IFATC Discord server, enforced by IFATC leadership members, and you are constantly reminded about them by your fellow controllers. For this, for a person like me, but for many others as well, it is a very nice place to be in this community. The best one, actually.

Firstly, you asked how it is being an IFATC controller on a daily basis. I would say there is no such general thing as a “daily basis” because, while there are some rules in place which also include the activity requirements, those are not the strictest rules ever. In fact, you must control at least once every 90 days, which is very generous. Surely, though, you will find many (actually, most) ATC controllers controlling weekly, bi-weekly, or even more than that. And, even when controlling, you are free to do many things. The most common one is the fact that you are not forced to control a specific airport or airports in a specific region. There is a rank structure which you must follow, and which is made for you to go “from the bottom to the top” (so, from airports with just a few planes/less traffic for you to understand all the basics and get used to controlling, to busier airspace), but generally speaking, you are free to control wherever you’d like, whenever you’d like. So, I would say that IFATC aspect is great!

Another thing which can be part of the IFATC’s daily activity is the official IFATC training sessions. I would highly encourage you to attend those for a couple of reasons: you are helping fellow (want-to-be or already-) controllers to train, as well as their trainers to run those sessions, have fun attending these because you are flying around doing multiple Touch & Goes (which yes, boost your Grade stats as well), and finally, you may eventually get rewarded with some interesting roles (such as IFATC Tester).

Don’t let the ADHD or the way you are stop you from doing what you think you like in this simulator. While outside of this, so “in real life”, there may be some obstacles due to this, I would say not to overthink about it. Take your time, study the online resources, train a bit, ask questions to IFATC controllers, and then, try your best when taking the written and practical tests.

There are pros and cons in IFATC, as in everything else. However, I would say that it is the best VO here, and the funniest way to play in this app, find and interact with new people and friends, and help out many other users. I’ll be honest with you: if it wasn’t for IFATC (and the community in general), I would probably not be playing this simulator if it was just flying around, as I ironically find that aspect the most boring one. You will surely face some challenges or harder ATC sessions, interactions, or whatever, but that’s just how it is in every other aspect of life, whether you are playing a game or not. With the right effort and will, you can surely do it! :grinning_face_with_smiling_eyes:

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jeez… didn’t even get a mention of @Jinco - I guess we know our place @PranavJ :rofl:

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Hello! I’m glad to have the opportunity to share my experiences here.

I first applied to join IFATC in April 2023. My recruiter at that time was @LesterXavier. Unfortunately, I had already exhausted my chances for the three written tests, which is also known as “failing.” Looking back, I realized I had no idea what I was doing. I then received a 90-day cooling-off period. After that period ended, I reapplied in September. Under the excellent guidance of my recruiter @Declan and trainer @Darius_Glover, I participated in some training. In November, I passed my second practical test and successfully joined the IFATC family.

In the beginning, I could only control Charlie and Delta class airports, which were not rated the same way they are now (they have been re-evaluated). They were about the same size as TNCM airport.

After passing the IFATC Specialist Checkride, something memorable happened. One day in December 2023, I attempted to control a hub airport for the first time—Johannesburg Airport in South Africa. Due to my unfamiliarity with traffic, I caused several aircraft to go around. I felt very guilty, but after receiving encouragement and comfort from other controllers, I regained my confidence.

In February 2024, I decided to try radar. At that time, radar training had reopened. I reached out to @Declan to start the radar recruitment process. This time, an Australian trainer, @Panther, accepted me. Under his excellent training, I passed the radar practical test on my first attempt. On March 11, 2024, I joined the ranks of IFATC officers. After passing the test, I eagerly controlled Taoyuan Airport in Taiwan with @LightAviation! I still remember it vividly.

After that, everything went smoothly for about a year. I occasionally controlled airports on the ATC schedule, acting as a local or radar controller. In February of this year, I was honored to join the ranks of IFATC trainers, nurturing the next generation of IFATC controllers.

In IFATC, I’ve met many new friends. Even though some may no longer be active, new controllers join every day, working together at the same airport. Therefore, communication is very important.

While ADHD may prevent someone from becoming an air traffic controller in real life, I believe many people hope to fulfill dreams in Infinite Flight that they cannot achieve otherwise. You shouldn’t be an exception. Go for it! For me, this has been a fantastic experience.

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By the way, I still remember Tyler attended my TT @LQSA😂

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:joy: Must’ve been a special one for a staff member to attend.

Also if you don’t mind me asking what does the abbreviation “TT” mean? :sweat_smile: I’d assume it’s an IFATC thing.

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Training-time, that’s how we call training sessions in our ATC server

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how you speak on the TT

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Who would’ve known before would be the first to reply in just minutes :joy:

Thanks so much @BennyBoy_Alpha for sharing your experience on how it’s like to be an IFATC Controller, I’m sure it’s not easy at all and the fact that you can semi relate to my story as you also experienced failure on the IFATC Knowledge Tests, makes it even better. We both have/had the same Recruiter @Antoine (still is my current recruiter) and is one of the best I’ve worked with and continue to.

You mentioned that you applied for Radar, is there different fields (frequencies) that you can apply to control for? Because I never knew that was a thing, I think I have but haven’t really thought much about it or paid mine to it. It seems that you really found it very easy to progress through the Ranks, the sessions of course I could imagine not easy at all, but truly well deserved for someone very helpful and kind like you.

I also really can see how IFATC can be very similar to controlling in real life as IFATC uses mainly real world data (procedures, etc..) to ensure a fun, safe and enjoyable experience.

Thank you once again Benny for sharing your experience on how it is to be an IFATC Controller your story really has me more on asking myself “is it really than you think it is?” And I appreciate your story a lot as it really helps to keep motivation to regardless of the circumstances, to push for something that I really want to achieve (The IFATC Title)

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IFATC Discord server

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Ohhh I see, I’m really not sure at all on what happens after you pass the IFATC Knowledge Exam, as like I mentioned in my post, I’m in a place where I’m not sure if it’s the right thing for someone like me with ADHD and my struggles to focus.

I really do hope to find the motivation I need to actually get to know what happens after I pass the IFATC Knowledge Exam.

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For me personally,

Hey @Keanu-X

I want to share my journey as an IFATC. It wasn’t easy—and it wasn’t perfect—but it was worth it. If you’re someone who’s struggling with tests, dealing with ADHD, or just feeling discouraged, this post is for you.

:round_pushpin: Local (Tower/Ground) Phase

:cross_mark: Failed the Local Written Test twice.

:white_check_mark: Passed it on the third attempt after taking time to really focus and study.

:white_check_mark: Passed the Local Practical Test on my first attempt.

This stage was where I learned the most about resilience. Failing didn’t mean I wasn’t good enough—it just meant I wasn’t ready yet. And that’s okay.

CC : Big thanks also to my recuriter @Ramzi_Khairan for helping me and always giving me encouragement during this phase, and also to my trainer @Citrusinabox and @Levi_Marlo :heart: that been staying patient with my low level knowledged :joy::joy: with over 30+ sesh. And special notes also to my friends @Adi08 @kadengg that helping on the local theory and teaching me all the fundamental of local lesson.

:satellite_antenna: Radar Phase

:white_check_mark: Entered Radar training after becoming a Specialist.

:cross_mark: Failed the Radar Written Test twice.

:cross_mark: Failed the Radar Practical Test once.

:white_check_mark: Passed on the second try.

Radar was another level. It tested not only my skill but also my focus and patience—which, with ADHD, was a real challenge. But instead of giving up, I kept going.

CC : A big heart also for my recruiter @Othman_Asli for always supporting and giving me advice during this phase and also to my trainer @Captain_Dreamliner that been patient with me during this time :joy:, even though i slow in learning but @Captain_Dreamliner always giving me a fire of spirit to keep going on and fight the quitters style :heart::heart::heart: And also lets not forget the one and the only @kadengg that keep pushing and advice me not to quit the radar training ( i almost quit because of the radar training is soo stressful :joy:)

:speech_balloon: Living with ADHD and Still Moving Forward

ADHD makes it harder to stay focused, manage time, and handle pressure—but it doesn’t make success impossible. It just means I had to find my own pace, learn from my mistakes, and stay consistent, even when my brain wanted to do everything except study.

If you’re dealing with ADHD or other challenges:
Don’t let that define your limits. Let it define your fight.

:brain: My Tips for Anyone Struggling:

Don’t rush. Take your time, especially when reviewing concepts.

Use feedback as fuel. Every failure is just data for your next success.

Ask for help. Trainers and other IFATCs are incredibly supportive.

Take breaks, not breakdowns. Mental rest is just as important as training.

Believe in yourself. Even when it’s hard.

:bullseye: Final Words

I failed a total of five tests during my journey. But I’m now confidently controlling as part of the IFATC radar team.

If you’re out there struggling, feeling stuck, or battling your own ADHD obstacles—remember: you’re not alone, and you are capable.

:backhand_index_pointing_right: You don’t have to be perfect. You just have to keep going.

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Firstly, Thank you very much for sharing taking the time to share your experience, and I’m happy and I made this post specifically for IFATC Controllers to share their stories and experiences because I know it’s not easy and this post I created to allow the community to hear the voices of IFATC Controllers.

It really makes me almost forget sometimes that yeah, I failed 3 times but hearing others being able to relate to it and when you experience that failure for something you’ve tried for 3 times, it really shows that you really want to achieve it and want to work hard to achieve it, no matter what.

Its a coincidence that I’m actually from and live next to O.R Tambo International Airport in South Africa :sweat_smile: And I want to say, I know in Infinite Flight the African continent isin’t populated much, but you taking on the challenge of controlling the continents #1 International Airport in Infinite Flight and not to mention it was a hub on this day, thank you for your service on controlling the airport, it’s not common for African airports to be featured so not many controllers get to control here, when it is.

And yeah, having ADHD effects myself and millions of others in many ways which is challenging and really for me hard to accept, because it makes simple things very difficult for example studying, it used to be a nightmare getting to focus, and now seeing that ADHD affects you in ATC Controlling really made me wonder if IFATC was for me.

Thank you very much once again for sharing your incredible journey and personal experience to becoming an IFATC Controllers, huge congratulations it isn’t is I know for sure, but. It’s rewarding at the end. I hope to one day get to experience my own journey or complete my journey I’m on to becoming an IFATC controller.

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Was a pleasure training you. Lot of slippers :joy:

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Pleasure training you, test had me scared though :joy:

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cool!! Have fun

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I been with IFATC for around a week now, honestly it’s the best thing. It felt like I unlocked Elite Server of the game. All controllers are hand picked so everyone is very professional and know what they are doing. Communication is great and it makes you feel like there is actually a purpose for you and this game becomes a proper simulator.

I failed my first practical because similar to @BennyBoy_Alpha I had no idea what I was doing. Then thanks to hard work of @Walter who took me under his wing I went through 2 weeks of training and he brought me up to the standard. My second practical, I passed with flying colours and this was best feeling ever.

Join IFATC by all mean, it is truely next level experience but be sure to commit, trainers, mentors and the team will dedicate their time for this and so should you. Remember, that at the end of the day you will have 6-12 people committing their time to train you,L and they are not bots you are controlling, they are all humans, so be sure to always keep this in your mind!

Really looking forward to seeing you at TT and joining IFATC soon :smiling_face:

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Thanks for the tag. My pleasure training you. When you are ready for the Officer rank training, you know where to find me :wink:

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