VATSIM, the online flight simulation network, has announced a notable change to its membership policy that will impact future pilots and air traffic controllers joining the platform.
Effective January 1, 2026, VATSIM will raise the minimum age requirement for new users from 13 to 16 years old. The announcement, posted on the official VATSIM Forum, marks a significant shift in the network’s approach to community standards and user safeguards.
Key Points
- Grandfather Clause: Current users aged 13 to 15 years old will not be impacted by this change. These members will be allowed to continue using the network and will be grandfathered in, allowing them to enjoy the VATSIM experience as they have always done.
- Future Members: All new users who wish to join the VATSIM network from January 1, 2026, onwards must be at least 16 years old at the time of registration.
VATSIM believes this change will enhance the overall experience for the community while maintaining a focus on safety and maturity throughout the network.
Stay tuned to FSElite for the latest updates.
