Flight Planning for a Direct or VFR Trip

Direct and VFR flights are permitted

Delta Virtual's current SOP allows point-to-point, direct, VFR, and normally planned routes. A published airways route or SimBrief-generated IFR plan is not mandatory for every ordinary flight.

A basic planning workflow

1. Choose valid departure and destination airports.
2. Decide whether the flight will be VFR or IFR in your simulator.
3. Check distance, expected flight time, wind, ceiling, visibility, terrain, and fuel needs.
4. Review airspace and nearby airports along the route.
5. Select an aircraft that is appropriate for the runway and weather conditions.
6. Decide which approved ACARS client will record the flight.
7. If flying online, make sure the plan and your operation comply with the network's rules and ATC instructions.

Direct doesn't mean unplanned

Even a short direct hop benefits from planning an alternate landing option and checking available fuel. VFR flights may require particular weather, airspace, and radio procedures when flying on a network.

Delta Virtual-specific reminders

• A schedule's Typical Subfleet is normally guidance, not a restriction.
• Tours and events may impose additional aircraft or route rules.
• If you land at a different airport because of a legitimate diversion, explain it in your PIREP comments.
• Slewing or teleporting to advance a credited flight is not permitted.

Policy reference: SOP v4.0, sections 6.1-6.4 and 8.1-8.3.