Our Virtual Airline
We are a virtual airline flying the simulation skies of the IVAO. By that we mean we are by no means related to the real Copa Airlines. Our aim is simply to partially simulate the operation of a real airline in an online multi-player flight simulation environment.
We conduct (simulated) flights on a real-time basis all over the world, thus not necessarily based on the routes of the real airline. With this we allow our pilots more degree of flexibility and therefore encourage them to fly with our VA.
Our VA operates in a semi high-tech environment in which pilots use the Microsoft Flight Simulator to fly an aircraft using up-to-date real-world weather in an multi-player online community. This means that our pilots also have to be familiar with Air Traffic Control phraseology and procedures, but are also able to see (and avoid collision) with other online pilots. The air traffic control is provided online by other flight simulation enthusiasts dedicated to air traffic control procedures using specialized software to visualize airspaces (like a radar) and airports.
We are a non-profit organization and as such membership is free of charge. The adverts on the site are however needed to subsidize the operation of the VA for things such as webhosting fees, domain, etc. but none of these costs are billed in any way to any of our members.
Please do bear in mind that while the information provided here is based on real data, it is only meant for flight simulation purposes and not for real flights!. We are also in no way associated with the real life Copa Airlines.
Pilot Membership Requirements
To join as a pilot you need:
- Have the Microsoft Flight Simulator
- Be a registered and active member of the IVAO and therefore mature and serious enough to comply with their Rules and Regulations.
- Capable of taxiing, taking off, flying and safely landing the types of aircraft used in our fleet.
- Fly at least 2 hours per month on the IVAO networks under the flag of our VA
Our Fleet
Our fleet is currently composed of the following aircraft with Copa livery. More
details in our fleet description page:
- Boeing 737-700 (glass cockpit)
- Boeing 737-800 (glass cockpit)
- Embraer ER-190 (glass cockpit)
The fleet may be expanded to larger (747) and lighter (turbo props) aircrafts provided we do find a skilled aircraft repainter volunteer.
Main Hub
The main hub of the virtual airline is Tocumen International Airport (MPTO) in Panama city, Panama. Flights are to be initiated from the main hub preferably when an ATC is available. The Tocumen Intl. airport the is hub of the americas.
The following alternate international hubs (not served by the real airline) are in our VA expansion plans: Amsterdam, Frankfurt am Main and Madrid.
Copa VA is based in Panama city, Panama with its hub in Tocumen International Airport. Therefore to fly our airline you should also make yourself familiar with the Panamanian Virtual Airspace regulations at Panama ARTCC.
