Pilot Ranks & Progression
Understanding the rank structure and career progression in Virtual Air Canada
Rank System Overview
Virtual Air Canada uses a rank system to simulate real-world pilot career progression. As you gain experience and flight hours, you’ll advance through ranks that unlock new routes and responsibilities.
Rank Structure
Team & Honorary Ranks
Advancement Requirements
Rank advancement is based on several factors:
Primary Requirements
Flight Hours
Total accumulated flight time in a pilot role. Hours are tracked automatically by the ACARS system.
Accepted PIREPs
Total number of successfully completed and accepted Pilot Reports (PIREPs).
Points
Points earned through various activities including flights, landing quality, and special events.
Activity
Regular activity is required to maintain rank. Extended inactivity may result in rank demotion.
Tracking Your Progress
You can track your career progression in several ways:
- Pilot Hub Profile: Your main profile shows current rank and progression toward the next rank
- Logbook: Review your completed flights and accumulated hours
- Statistics Page: View detailed breakdowns of your flight history
- Achievements: Monitor special achievements that contribute to advancement
Rank promotions are typically processed automatically within 24 hours of meeting requirements. For Staff Team positions, manual review and invitation are required.
Specializations and Endorsements
Beyond the basic rank structure, pilots can earn special endorsements:
- Route Specialist: Master specific routes with multiple successful flights
- Aircraft Type Rating: Demonstrate expertise with specific aircraft types
- Hub Commander: Become a specialist at a particular VACA hub
- VATSIM/IVAO Expert: Recognition for online network participation
- All-Weather Operations: Successfully complete flights in challenging conditions
These specializations appear on your pilot profile and may grant access to exclusive events or routes.
Rank Insignia and Uniform
Your virtual pilot avatar displays rank insignia corresponding to your current rank. The uniform elements include:
- Shoulder Epaulets: Indicate your rank level
- Name Tag: Displays your pilot ID and callsign
- Service Stripes: Indicate years of service with VACA
- Wings: Basic wings for all pilots, gold wings for captains
- Special Pins: Recognition for achievements and specializations
Update your uniform appearance in the Pilot Hub profile settings.