My Virtual Airlines & Fleet
Currently flying for FIVE virtual airlines with a diverse fleet of aircraft spanning the globe from Europe to Australia and New Zealand.
A "virtual airline" is exactly that - an internet based, simulated version of a Fictitious OR real world airline. Most of the 200 or so virtual airlines on the internet (known as VA's) are free to join and are often based on real world counterparts. They work hard to reflect their real world counterpart's Flight Operations. If you have a computer Flight Simulation programme and are over 16 years of age, then you can join up. Most VA's are very friendly, have a range of flying opportunities for both skilled and novice simulator pilots (we are known as "Simmers" or "virtual or desktop pilots"), provide some training opportunities and can lend a sense of purpose to your computer flying activities.
Virtual Airline Examples
Understanding the difference between fictional and real-world based virtual airlines
Kowloon International
An example of a fictional virtual airline that is NOT based on a real world existing airline. Some years ago, I was among the team that began setting this VA up, but it did not work out and the VA no longer exists. Real pity - I always liked the paint job!
United Airlines Virtual
An example of a virtual airline that IS based on a real world existing airline. There are at least SIX different VA's based on United Airlines and they each have something to offer the simulator pilot. United Virtual Airlines is probably the most popular today.
My Current Virtual Airlines
The airlines I currently fly for, each offering unique opportunities across the virtual world
BAVirtual
Based on the real British Airways and my primary VA. I have been with BAVirtual for over 22 years now.
FlyUK
A fictional British styled VA with variety of operating aircraft and routes, plus code shares. Great bunch of people with one of the simplest ACARs Flight Monitors.
VAP AIR
My own fictional, British styled Private VA. We have eight aircraft and two Helicopters. With only TWO pilots on staff, we fly leasing flights anywhere in the world.
Virtual Airlines of Ukraine
Primarily focused on Ukraine's national carrier UIA, this VA also includes other Ukrainian carriers including SkyUp, Windrose, Azur Air, MotorSich and Bravo Airways.
World Wide Virtual
Huge number of routes with the ability to create your own Charters and fly virtually anywhere! Another great bunch of guys with a really great ACARs tracking utility.
My Fleet
Over 17,000 flying hours across various aircraft and helicopters in FS9, FSX, P3D and MSFS2020
Boeing Aircraft
I have flown the 737 and all its variants in various Simulators for some years now. Today I fly mostly the 737-800 or the -900 and -900ER with occasional flights using the -600 and -700. In addition, I also have the Boeing 777-300ER and recently the Boeing 777-200ER (All from PMDG) in MSFS2020.
4,200+
Hours on Boeing 747-400
Study Level
Detailed Aircraft Systems
Airbus Aircraft
Having been a Boeing man most of my simulated career, it was refreshing to get into first the FSLabs Airbus A320 in FSX and P3D. Now I fly the Airbus A320NEO (FlyByWire), A319, 320 and A321 (Fenix) and the A330-900NEO (Headwind) in MSFS2020 and I really enjoy these study level jets.
Helicopters & Light Aircraft
In addition to the Bell 47G2 (FlyInside), early in 2023, Helicopters were added to MSFS2020 with the new BELL 407 Helicopter. Generally, I fly this aircraft mainly to explore at low level and it is useful when checking out scenery for reviews. I also fly the Cessna C172 Classic for training and recreational flights.
~70 Hours
Helicopter Flying Time
Boeing 747-400 - The Queen
Why is this jet listed last? For some time now, my flying has been mainly short/medium haul. In years gone by, I had a lot of time for long hauls and racked up many hours on the 747, certainly while testing for MS UK. In P3D, developed by PMDG, the Queen was a beauty to fly and a real handful for Single Pilot Operations! Sadly, many airlines have phased this great jet out of their flight operations. But I have many memories of flying her into Hong Kong's old Kai Tak Airport!
Worldwide Flying
I fly for all these airlines because they give me the chance to operate all over the virtual world and I am not restricted to just Europe. I can fly in North and South America, Europe, Asia and the Pacific region, including Australia and New Zealand. Each VA has its own ACARs software and pilot requirements.
Global Routes
Flying across all continents with diverse route networks
Community
Great groups of people providing training and support
ACARs Systems
Individual tracking software for flight logging and records