Can a fun, virtual air traffic simulation game translate into "tried and true" research and development? CAASD is exploring the possibilities through a partnership with the Virtual Air Traffic Simulation Network (VATSIM), a global aviation community on the Internet avid about flight simulation. VATSIM is comprised of over 100,000 registered users consisting of pilots, air traffic controllers, and new users interested in learning about online flight simulation and air traffic control. The network offers CAASD an opportunity for concept exploration and validation within the research and development (R&D) community that has yet to be explored. Says Principal Software Systems Engineer Frank Sogandares, "We hope to conduct virtual future National Airspace System (NAS)-level and global simulations with the group. These simulations can offer better insights into how aviation systems behave as operational changes are introduced."

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