How to Apply for a Rank Transfer

If you have experience flying for other Virtual Airlines, you may be able to skip the starting ranks when joining a new VA. This is called a rank transfer.

How Rank Transfer Works

vAMSYS uses a "direct entry" system rather than transferring your exact hours and points. If you qualify, you receive a promotion to a specific rank (often First Officer) chosen by the VA - not a copy of your entire flight history.

For example: if the VA's transfer rank is First Officer requiring 100 hours, and you have 500 hours elsewhere, you will receive exactly 100 hours - enough to reach First Officer. Your 500 hours are not transferred directly.

Checking If Transfer Is Available

Not all VAs offer rank transfers. To check:

1. Log in to Phoenix

2. Click your profile button (top right)

3. Look for Apply for Rank Transfer button

If you do not see this button, either:

• The VA does not offer rank transfers, or

• You have already filed a PIREP with this VA

Transfer Types

Internal Transfer (vAMSYS to vAMSYS)

If you already fly for other VAs on vAMSYS, you can apply for an internal transfer. The system automatically checks your hours and points across all your vAMSYS pilot accounts.

• No proof required - the system verifies automatically

• Approved automatically if you meet requirements

• Processing happens within an hour (usually faster)

External Transfer

If your experience is from Virtual Airlines outside vAMSYS, you will need to provide proof of your flight time.

• Requires proof - URLs to your statistics pages or flight logs

• Staff review required - approval is not automatic

• Enter the total hours you are claiming

Applying for a Transfer

1. Click Apply for Rank Transfer

2. Read the VA's transfer policy in the modal

3. If both types are available, choose Internal or External

4. For external transfers:

• Add URLs to pages showing your flight time (VA statistics pages, pilot profiles, etc.)

• Make sure the URLs are publicly accessible

• Enter the total hours you are claiming

5. Click Submit

After Applying

You do not need to wait. You can book flights and file PIREPs immediately. Your transfer will be processed in the background.

• Internal transfers - automatically approved within an hour if you meet the requirements

• External transfers - wait for staff review. The VA decides if your proof is sufficient.

When approved, the system creates a transfer PIREP that awards you the hours and points needed for the transfer rank, and your rank is updated.

Important Notes

• One application only - You cannot resubmit if rejected. Make sure your proof is clear and complete.

• First PIREP deadline - Apply before filing any flights. The option disappears after your first PIREP.

• VA-specific - Each VA has different requirements and transfer ranks. What qualifies at one VA may not at another.

• Not all VAs offer transfers - This is entirely at the VA's discretion.

Tips

• Use public statistics pages - Your old VA's pilot statistics page is ideal proof.

• Include multiple sources - The more proof you provide, the stronger your application.

• Check URL accessibility - Open your links in an incognito/private browser window to ensure they work without login.

• Read the VA's policy - The transfer modal explains what proof they accept and what rank you are applying for.