The excitement is building as FlightSimExpo 2025 lands in Providence, Rhode Island — and the VATSIM world is kicking off the weekend with an unforgettable Friday Night Operations event you won’t want to miss. On Friday, June 27th, 2025, VATUSA and its partners are bringing the energy of live air traffic control directly from the expo floor to the virtual skies!
For this special FNO, controllers from the Boston, New York, and Washington ARTCCs will be joined by their northern neighbors from Montreal and Moncton FIRs. But here’s the twist: these controllers will be working together live and in-person from the heart of FlightSimExpo itself. With a full audience watching and real-time coordination across multiple high-traffic centers, this is as close as you’ll get to real-world ATC without stepping into a tower cab.
The featured airspace will include some of the busiest and most iconic airports on the network:
Whether you’re flying a transcontinental heavy or a short regional hop, expect full staffing, busy frequencies, and a level of realism that only a live event can provide. Controllers will be managing real-time traffic flow, handling congested approaches, and coordinating across multiple facilities—all while attendees at FlightSimExpo watch them work their magic live.
For pilots, this is your chance to test your skills in some of the busiest and most challenging airspace on VATSIM. Be prepared for hold instructions, last-minute runway changes, and the kind of traffic levels that will keep your autopilot — and your brain — busy. Review your procedures, file smart flight plans, and bring your A-game.
Can’t make it to Providence? No problem. Pilots from around the world are encouraged to participate online and be part of the action. And for those following along at home, expect plenty of live streams and event coverage straight from the expo floor.
This isn’t just another FNO — it’s a unique fusion of live simulation, professional-grade ATC, and community excitement, all coming together under one roof. So mark your calendars: June 27, 2025, promises to be a night of high-octane virtual flying as VATSIM, VATUSA, and FlightSimExpo take Friday Night Operations to the next level.
We’ll see you in the skies!
