Software
The app are good as you are :).Opening
To fly online with VATSIM, you will need to download and install a software application which connects your Flight Simulator with the VATSIM servers. There are several such applications, and all are free. Clients are available for FS9, FSX, P3D and X-Plane. These applications also enable you to communicate with ATC and other aircraft. To do this, a headset with microphone is very useful, but not required. Text communication is always available.
For model matching, you can use FLAI or another AI traffic, you don't need to download from VATSIM's model matching.
Audio for VATSIM (AFV) Compatibility
Built-in - Audio for VATSIM is already built into the client and you need only set up your microphone and speakers/headset and your client connects to Audio for VATSIM.
For more information, and to download the Standalone AFV Client, visit the Audio for VATSIM website.
vPilot
(FSX or P3D only) vPilot is a simple, effective client designed to get new pilots flying quickly with excellent model matching so that you can see other online pilots with the correct aircraft type and livery. Generally, it's 5-10 minutes from download to working, including setting up your model matching. Documentation is thorough. vPilot was recently released and is supported by not only the community but by the developer who continues to make feature improvements.
Learn more | Download
xPilot
(X-Plane only) xPilot is the newest pilot client built especially for X-Plane but with the ever familiar look and feel of vPilot (for P3D and FSX).
xPilot is probably the best choice for new members that use X-Plane because it is quick and easy to install and get started with.
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Swift
We don't recommend this app for new comers.
(FS9, FSX, P3D, X-Plane) Swift is a new pilot client for VATSIM currently undergoing open beta testing. It is compatible with all the main pilot clients and several operating systems. It is a feature-rich client but the instructions must be read.
If you have FSX, P3D, or X-Plane, We highly recommend to use vPilot or xPilot instead.
Learn more | Download