Section A14 of the Code of Conduct has been updated to clarify communication standards.
These changes ensure the network remains inclusive while maintaining voice as the primary standard.
Key Clarifications
- Voice is Preferred
Full-Voice remains the preferred method of communication on VATSIM. - No Service Denial
It is not within a controller’s purview to restrict or prevent service based on a user’s communication mode. - Wallops
Users must not automatically request Supervisor engagement simply because another user is not using Full-Voice. - Workload Accommodation
Other modes (Receive-Only/Text-Only) must be accommodated on a workload-permitting basis.
“Stretching” the bounds of workload permitting to avoid text users will not be tolerated.
Updated Code of Conduct Language
- A14
Voice is the preferred method of communication on VATSIM. Users shall use voice if able to do so, but must accommodate the use of text to support those with an inability to use voice. - A14(a)
Air Traffic Controllers shall be able to transmit and receive voice (Full-Voice). - A14(b)
Pilots with an inability to receive and/or transmit voice may utilize a lower level of voice capability (Receive-Only or Text-Only) only if necessary. - A14(c)
Users shall not discriminate against others who utilize Receive-Only or Text-Only, though Receive-Only or Text-Only services will be provided by ATC on a workload-permitting basis. - A14(d)
Only unaltered speech is permitted to be transmitted.
To support consistent interpretation, the Code of Conduct Companion Document provides additional guidance and examples.