Frequently Asked Questions

General

What is Landline?

Landline is a virtual ATC coordination system that replicates real-world landline telephone functionality for VATSIM air traffic controllers. It enables private voice communication between controller positions for traffic coordination, handoffs, and facility management.

How is this different from TeamSpeak or Discord?

Unlike general VoIP applications, Landline is purpose-built for ATC operations:

• Integrates with VATSIM position data
• Supports Override (priority two-way) and Monitor (listen before calling) modes
• Position-based calling rather than user-based
• Consolidation routing when positions are combined
• Always-on-top compact window for use alongside radar clients

Is Landline free?

Landline is currently in closed alpha testing. Pricing for the final release has not been announced. During the alpha phase, access is provided free to participating ARTCCs.

Which platforms are supported?

Currently, Landline is available for Windows 10 and 11 (64-bit). macOS and Linux support are planned for future releases.

Technical

What technology does Landline use for voice?

Landline uses WebRTC (Web Real-Time Communication) for peer-to-peer voice. This is the same technology used by modern video conferencing applications like Google Meet and Zoom. It includes:

• Echo cancellation
• Noise suppression
• Automatic gain control
• TURN server fallback for difficult network situations

Do I need to open any firewall ports?

In most cases, no. WebRTC handles NAT traversal automatically using STUN/TURN servers. If you're behind a strict corporate firewall, you may need to allow outbound connections to ports 3478 and 5349 (TURN server).

Why can't I connect to another controller?

Common causes:

• The other controller is not logged into Landline
• Network firewall blocking WebRTC
• Server connectivity issues

See the Troubleshooting guide for detailed solutions.

Usage

Can I use Landline without being on VATSIM?

Yes, using Training Mode. Toggle Training Mode on the login screen and enter any CID to bypass VATSIM position verification. This is useful for testing and training.

How many people can be in a conference call?

Currently, conference calls support up to 3 participants (full mesh architecture). When a participant leaves, the call automatically downgrades to a regular 2-party call.

What happens if someone calls me while I'm on another call?

The new call appears in your Pending Calls panel with a silenced ringer (to avoid disruption). You can:

• Accept it (ends current call)
• Decline it
• Merge it into a conference

Can I transfer a conference call?

No, transfers are only available for 2-party calls. You would need to end the conference first, then transfer the remaining call.

Audio

Which headset should I use?

Any USB headset works well. We recommend a headset with built-in microphone for best audio quality and echo cancellation. Popular choices include:

• Logitech H390
• HyperX Cloud Stinger
• Plantronics Blackwire series

Can I use my speakers and desk microphone?

Yes, but echo cancellation may not work as well as with a headset. If others report echo, consider using a headset.

Why is my audio cutting out?

This can be caused by:

• Unstable network connection
• High CPU usage on your computer
• Microphone being used by another application

Administration

How do I get FE access?

Contact your ARTCC's technology team or ATM. They can provide FE credentials if you need to configure facility settings.

Can multiple people have FE access?

Yes, multiple FE accounts can be created for a facility. Coordinate with your team to avoid conflicting changes.

How do I add my ARTCC to Landline?

During the alpha phase, new facilities are set up by the Landline team. Contact us through the beta request form to discuss adding your ARTCC.