2 simple ways to add realism to your Vatsim flights

I started using default FSX AI at 30%(with world of AI packages models/textures) and liveatc.net on all my Vatsim flights, because the two things I hate most on Vatsim are empty skies/airports, and no ATC.

AI traffic at 30% gives barely a hit on frames but keeps the skies and airports reasonably populated with traffic.

Liveatc.net gives a huge sense of immersion when you don't have ATC online in your area.

FSINN allows AI traffic even when connected to the network (only for fsx), but afaik squawkbox disables AI traffic and so does fsinn for fs9.

Liveatc.net is great because its free, and you have dozens of frequencies to choose from.

If I want busy chatter I'll tune SoCal approach, or if I want sparse chatter I'll tune to....Fargo or something.

If ATC comes online in Vatsim, simply disconnect the live stream.

Don't know how many ppl are doing the same but it's increased my enjoyment of fsx tenfold.