> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.canadava.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# vPilot

> Complete guide to installing, configuring, and using vPilot - the standard VATSIM pilot client for Microsoft Flight Simulator

export const Checklist = ({title, items, icon}) => {
  const [checked, setChecked] = useState(Object.fromEntries(items.map((_, i) => [i, false])));
  const toggle = i => setChecked(prev => ({
    ...prev,
    [i]: !prev[i]
  }));
  const done = Object.values(checked).filter(Boolean).length;
  return <div className="vatsim-checklist">
      <div className="vatsim-checklist-header">
        <div className="vatsim-checklist-title">
          {icon && <span className="vatsim-checklist-icon">{icon}</span>}
          <span>{title}</span>
        </div>
        <span className="vatsim-checklist-count">{done}/{items.length}</span>
      </div>
      <div className="vatsim-checklist-items">
        {items.map((item, i) => <button key={i} className={`vatsim-checklist-item ${checked[i] ? 'checked' : ''}`} onClick={() => toggle(i)}>
            <span className="vatsim-check-box">
              {checked[i] && <span className="vatsim-check-mark">✓</span>}
            </span>
            <span className="vatsim-check-label">{item}</span>
          </button>)}
      </div>
    </div>;
};

vPilot is the primary and recommended VATSIM pilot client for **Microsoft Flight Simulator** (MSFS 2020 and MSFS 2024). It connects your simulator to the VATSIM network, allowing you to communicate with live air traffic controllers, see other pilots' aircraft, and transmit your own position so others can see you.

<Note>
  vPilot is **Windows-only**. If you fly on macOS or Linux, use [xPilot](/vatsim/software/xpilot) or [Swift](/vatsim/software/swift) instead.
</Note>

## System Requirements

* **Operating System:** Windows 10 or Windows 11
* **Simulator:** Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 or Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024
* **.NET Framework:** Version 4.8 or later (included with most Windows installations)
* **Microphone:** Required for voice communication
* **Internet connection:** Stable broadband recommended

## Installation and Setup

<Steps>
  <Step title="Download vPilot">
    Visit [vpilot.rosscarlson.dev](https://vpilot.rosscarlson.dev) and download the latest version of vPilot. The download is a standard Windows installer.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Run the installer">
    Run the downloaded installer and follow the on-screen prompts. The default installation location works for most users.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Launch vPilot">
    Open vPilot after installation. On first launch, it will guide you through initial setup.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Enter your VATSIM credentials">
    Enter your **VATSIM CID** (the numeric ID you received when you registered) and your VATSIM password. These are the same credentials you use to log in to the VATSIM website.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Set your real name">
    Enter your real name as it appears on your VATSIM account. This is displayed to controllers and must match your registration.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Configure audio devices">
    In the audio settings, select your **input device** (microphone) and **output device** (headset or speakers). Test your microphone to ensure the audio level bar responds when you speak. See the [Audio Setup](/vatsim/software/audio-setup) page for detailed guidance.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Set your push-to-talk key">
    Assign a **push-to-talk (PTT)** key or button. Choose something you can easily reach while flying - a joystick button, mouse side button, or keyboard key all work well. You must press and hold this key whenever you want to transmit on a frequency.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Configure model matching">
    Model matching determines how other pilots' aircraft appear in your simulator. Without it, you may see default or invisible aircraft. See the [Model Matching](/vatsim/software/model-matching) page for complete setup instructions.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Launch MSFS and load your aircraft">
    Open Microsoft Flight Simulator and load into your aircraft at a **gate or parking position**. Make sure the simulator is fully loaded before proceeding.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Connect to VATSIM">
    In vPilot, enter your **callsign** (e.g., ACA456), verify your aircraft type code, and click **Connect**. You are now live on the VATSIM network.
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Key Settings

Understanding these settings will help you connect correctly every time.

| Setting           | Description                                                                                                                          | Example                  |
| ----------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ | ------------------------ |
| **Server**        | The VATSIM server you connect to. vPilot usually selects the closest server automatically for the best latency.                      | Automatic                |
| **Callsign**      | Your ICAO callsign for the flight. For airline operations, this is typically the airline code followed by a flight number.           | ACA456                   |
| **Aircraft Type** | The ICAO type designator matching the aircraft you are flying. This tells ATC and other pilots what aircraft you are in.             | A320, B77W, C172         |
| **Transponder**   | Your squawk code, assigned by ATC. Use 2000 for IFR flights before receiving an ATC-assigned code, or 1200 for VFR in North America. | 2000 (IFR) or 1200 (VFR) |

<Tip>
  vPilot automatically detects Microsoft Flight Simulator. Just make sure MSFS is running and fully loaded to at least the main menu or an airport before you try to connect.
</Tip>

## Troubleshooting

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="vPilot says MSFS is not running">
    Make sure Microsoft Flight Simulator is fully loaded to the main menu or to an airport before attempting to connect. If MSFS is still on its loading screen or splash screen, vPilot cannot detect it. Wait until you are at a gate or on a runway, then try connecting again.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="I can't hear ATC">
    Open vPilot's audio settings and verify that the correct **output device** (headset or speakers) is selected. Check that the volume is not muted or turned all the way down. Also confirm that the COM1 radio in your aircraft is powered on and tuned to the correct frequency. See the [Audio Setup](/vatsim/software/audio-setup) page for more detailed troubleshooting.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="ATC can't hear me">
    Verify that the correct **microphone** is selected in vPilot's audio settings. Check that your push-to-talk key is properly bound and that you are pressing and holding it while speaking. Test your microphone in Windows Sound Settings to confirm it is working at the system level. Make sure your COM1 radio is set to transmit (TX indicator active).
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Other aircraft are invisible">
    This means model matching is not configured or is not working correctly. vPilot needs model files to render other pilots' aircraft in your simulator. Visit the [Model Matching](/vatsim/software/model-matching) page for setup instructions. FSLTL is the recommended model set for MSFS.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Connection failed">
    Double-check your VATSIM CID and password. Verify that your internet connection is active and stable. If the problem persists, try selecting a different server in vPilot's settings. Occasionally, VATSIM servers may be under maintenance - check the [VATSIM status page](https://status.vatsim.net) for any outages.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Setup Checklist