Is it possible to listen only to VATSIM while flying in an area where there are VATSIM controllers and aircraft communicating, but not be seen by ATC or other aircraft? And what would I need to have to do that? I would like to hear what it's like without appearing on radar screens or to other aircraft participating in controlled flight.Thanks, Bruce.

You can fly VATSIM without interacting, Bruce. Just stay below 2500 and away from heavy areas. I've flown with CharlieP a few times - over at the OrbX "PNW Flying Club" site - http://www.orbxsystems.com/forum/forum/3-public/ - but the best place to ask about - and to actually go and do it - is at ts3.digitalthemepark.com - and talk to Zoo. Some other details here at the Avsim MultiPlayer forum.

You cant fly IFR online without interacting with ATC, and you can only fly VFR without interacting as long as you stay away from controlled areas like class bravo airports etc. You can basically only land and depart from non-towered airfields, flying according to visual rules. You can however put your plane on the ramp, log on and sit there and listen to the radio.

Thanks for the info, Bruce

Just go sit at a busy airport, check VatSpy (google it) to see whos online. Then just listen.