Click any section to expand. All pilots are expected to follow these standards.

Core: Respect, helpfulness, and courtesy across all communications

Professionalism is the foundation of Rocky Mountain Airlines. Every pilot — whether in the cockpit, on Discord, or on a public network — represents the airline and its community.

Expectations

  • Treat fellow pilots, staff, ATC, and network users with courtesy and professionalism
  • Keep all text and voice communications clear, calm, and constructive
  • Listen attentively and avoid interrupting during voice transmissions

Zero Tolerance for Misconduct

  • No offensive, harassing, or discriminatory language under any circumstances
  • Jokes or comments targeting race, gender, nationality, religion, or personal attributes are strictly prohibited
  • Any form of bullying, intimidation, or disrespectful behavior will result in immediate review

Professional Discourse

Disagreements are natural; hostility is not. Keep discussions civil, especially in public channels. When conflicts arise, defer to staff or moderators rather than escalating.

Representation

When flying on VATSIM, IVAO, or PilotEdge, you are a representative of Rocky Mountain Airlines. Maintain the same level of respect and composure as you would in a real-world cockpit environment.

Core: Authentic operations balanced with fun and inclusivity

We value realistic operations while remembering this is a hobby meant to be enjoyed. Our aim isn't perfection — it's progress, consistency, and immersion.

Realistic Flight Planning

  • Use appropriate planning tools for routes, weights, and fuel
  • Review NOTAMs, weather, and airspace before departure
  • Fly the approved aircraft for the route per Airport Information resources

Procedural Discipline

  • Run checklists, flows, and standard callouts where possible
  • Follow SOPs through all phases of flight
  • Maintain realistic ATC standards on VATSIM/IVAO/PilotEdge

Flight Integrity

  • No time compression or slew mode during tracked flights
  • Adhere to realistic speeds, altitudes, and airspace procedures
  • Keep flights professional and immersive for yourself and others

Realism with Flexibility: Realism is our foundation, but perfection is not the expectation. Mistakes happen — learn from them.

Core: Safe, consistent, and transparent operations under ACARS tracking

Safety is the cornerstone of aviation — real or virtual. Every flight should be conducted with awareness, care, and respect for procedures.

Safe Flight Operations

  • Operate within safe parameters: no reckless flying, stunts, or behavior that misrepresents the airline
  • Review weather, runway limits, terrain, and aircraft performance before departure
  • Avoid unrealistic shortcuts or unsafe procedures

Simulator Flexibility

This is a flight simulator, not a checkride. Adjust realism settings, use assistance tools, or simplify procedures to match your comfort and skill level.

Incident Reporting

If something goes wrong, report it honestly in your PIREP or to staff. There is no penalty for honest mistakes made in good faith.

Core: Accurate flight tracking, data integrity, and aircraft assignment adherence

ACARS Setup & Use

  • Use an approved ACARS client with FlyLAT integration
  • Start logging before pushback; stop after parking and shutdown
  • Stay connected for the full leg; if disconnected, reconnect safely and note it in the PIREP

Data Integrity — No Shortcuts

  • No time compression or slew during tracked flights
  • Do not manipulate position, fuel, or timestamps
  • Document CTDs or sim glitches with screenshots and refly or file a ticket

Operational Discipline

  • Review NOTAMs, weather, terrain, and performance — especially at high-elevation fields
  • Use checklists/flows and follow SOPs through all flight phases
  • Execute a go-around if unstable — never penalized
Core: Clear, respectful, and efficient communication across all platforms

ACARS Reporting

  • The ACARS software automatically logs critical flight data including aircraft type, route, and time
  • Verify data accuracy and submit the report manually once the flight concludes
  • Do not alter, manipulate, or falsify flight data

Prohibited Behaviors

  • Using time compression or slew mode during a tracked flight
  • Operating an aircraft that doesn't match the ACARS selection
  • Any deliberate attempt to falsify logged data

Such actions can trigger automated punitive actions against RMA's account — including potential removal from the ACARS network.

Core: Professional representation on VATSIM, IVAO, PilotEdge, FlyLAT, and others

Every pilot is an ambassador for the company on all public platforms.

Professional Conduct

  • Follow all ATC instructions, communicate clearly and courteously
  • Ensure your callsign, aircraft type, and company affiliation are correct
  • Engage respectfully on Discord, forums, and social media

Use of the RMA Brand

  • The RMA name, logo, and livery must be used responsibly and professionally
  • Do not use company identifiers in connection with offensive or controversial material
  • Unauthorized alteration or misuse of airline branding is prohibited
Core: Growth, guidance, and leading by example through mentorship

Every pilot at RMA is both a learner and a teacher. We foster an environment where knowledge, skill, and confidence are shared freely.

Commitment to Growth

  • Keep learning — improve proficiency and explore new aircraft types
  • Use SOPs, NOTAMs, and training materials to expand your knowledge
  • Ask questions early and often

Mentorship & Leadership

  • Senior pilots serve as mentors and role models
  • Offer guidance to Recruits and First Officers with patience
  • Lead by example — professionalism, humility, and consistent standards

Supportive Environment

  • Respect different learning speeds — this is a journey, not a race
  • Celebrate progress and give constructive feedback
  • Prioritize collaboration over competition
Core: Professionalism, pride, and consistency across all platforms

Fly Professionally

  • Your callsign is your uniform — treat it with respect
  • Conduct yourself as a real-world flight crew would
  • Follow ATC instructions and maintain clear, courteous communication

Avoid Drama

  • Do not engage in arguments or disrespectful exchanges on public frequencies
  • Stay calm and professional — disengage and report privately to staff if needed

Use Approved Assets

  • Always use approved callsigns, aircraft liveries, and SOPs
  • Ensure your aircraft accurately reflects Rocky Mountain Airlines during public flights
Core: Accountability, fairness, and maintaining operational integrity

Minor Violations

Unintentional oversights like missing an ACARS report or using an incorrect callsign. Typically resolved with a friendly reminder or coaching.

Moderate Violations

Repeated SOP disregard, unprofessional communication, or failure to meet standards after reminders. May result in written warning or temporary suspension of flight privileges.

Severe Violations

  • Knowingly using time compression, slew mode, or falsifying ACARS data
  • Operating incorrect aircraft to intentionally cheat the system
  • Harassment, discrimination, or targeted disrespect
  • Actions causing punitive consequences against RMA's tracking accounts

Severe violations result in immediate termination. All pilots have the right to a clear explanation and the opportunity to discuss or appeal minor/moderate violations.

Core: Transparency and communication in updating company standards

Amendment Procedures

  • The Chief Pilot and Administrative Team conduct regular reviews of standards
  • Reviews may be triggered by software updates, new training practices, or community feedback
  • All proposed amendments must be reviewed and approved by Administration or the Founder

Communication of Changes

Pilots are notified through Discord #notams, pinned announcements, and direct updates to the Operational Standards Manual with a clear summary and effective date.

Pilot Involvement

All pilots are welcome and encouraged to share feedback on procedures, training resources, or operations. Submit constructive feedback to the Chief Pilot or Administrative Staff.

Standards Acknowledgment

By participating in RMA operations and community spaces, you agree to follow these Standards of Conduct & Operations. Violations are handled fairly — honest mistakes lead to coaching first. Realism is encouraged; enjoyment and respect are required.