Got this in my inbox today, all I can say is please please let there be light at the end of the tunnel!
VATSIM Notice to Airmen (NOTAM)
Issued by Steven Cullen (841154), 02-May-2014 19:37 UTC
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VATSIM is pleased to announce the release of the next generation pilot client by Ross Carlson: VPilot.
vPilot is a simple yet robust alternative to Squawkbox and FSInn, that will allow you to connect your aircraft to the VATSIM network, see and be seen, communicate with controllers and other pilots, all with what has been described by beta testers as a "bombproof, 5 minute, works first time out of the box" setup.
The author, Ross Carlson, has been helping the VATSIM community for years, with invaluable programs for pilots, controllers and observers like VRC, vSTARS, vDSR, and VAT-Spy.
With the release of VPilot, Ross brings a simple functionality to the hobby, by demystifying the process necessary to fly online, either solo, or shared cockpit.
The client will be available for download from the vPilot website
http://vpilot.metacraft.com.
As always, it is provided to our members free of charge, for their use and enjoyment.
Given the simplicity of vPilot, we hope it encourages more virtual aviators to take the next step join VATSIM, and fly online, interacting with fellow pilots and controllers.