ZFW New Controller Training Information

Thanks for your interest in becoming a controller at ZFW. We pride ourselves on developing training that produces controllers who are highly skilled and efficient at all levels of air traffic control in a fun and challenging environment. As a new controller at ZFW you can expect your training to progress as follows:

Basic Training / Class C TWR:

• Work with your mentor to prepare for the VATUSA S1 exam
• Observe other ZFW controllers on VRC and Study for the VATUSA S1 exam
• Pass the VATUSA S1 exam
• Begin training in the Sweatbox simulation environment on Class C Tower Positions
• Pass ZFW exams for VFR, Class C Airspace, & Local (Airport) Control
• Pass a Class C Sweatbox evaluation for TWR signoff

Class C Approach & Departure

• Expect ZFW Exams for Class C approach and departure
• Much of the Class C training will be conducted in the sweatbox simulation environment.
• Study the VATUSA Approach and Departure Training Manuals
• Familiarize yourself with the 7110.65S
• Pass a Class C sweatbox evaluation for Class C Approach
• Pass the VATUSA S3 Promotion Exam
• Accumulate 30 hours of ATC Time as an S1 controller

Class Bravo TWR (Dallas Fort Worth International Airport):

• Expect to take written tests for the Class B Airspace and DFW Airport Control Procedures
• Class B training is mostly conducted using live traffic, expect to spend a lot of time on the scope controlling at KDFW before you will get signed off at these positions. Your mentor may start you on TWR or GND depending on the situation.
• You will undergo a live OTS from the ZFW Training Administrator for this position.

Class Bravo Approach & Departure (Regional Approach):

• Expect a Written Exam for this Position
• Class B Approach training is mostly conducted using live traffic with supplemental training in the Sweatbox for high denisty traffic operations. You will mostly get on the job training.
• Expect an OTS from the ZFW Training Administrator for this position.
• Study for and pass the VATUSA C1 test.
• Accumulate 50 total hours as a controller (minimun 20 as an S3)

En Route (Center) :

• Expect a ZFW written exam for the Center Position
• Center training is mostly conducted using live traffic with possible supplemental training in the Sweatbox for high denisty traffic operations. You will mostly get on the job training.
• Expect an OTS from the ZFW Training Administrator for this position.

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