How do I get weather information on a flight?
The FAA has established a universal toll-free telephone number for FSSs: 1–800–WX–BRIEF (1–800–992–7433). Before contacting Flight Service, you should have the general route of flight worked out. When you reach Flight Service, you will first hear a recorded announcement, followed by instructions.
Whats the difference between TAF and METAR?
A TAF report is valid for 24 to 30-hour time periods and is typically updated four times a day. Thus, the distinction is quite clear – a METAR pertains to current weather conditions, while a TAF pertains forecasted weather for the next 24 to 30 hours.
What websites do pilots use for weather?
Aviation’s Top Websites
- NOAA National Weather Service Aviation Weather Center: http://aviationweather.gov.
- NOAA NWS AWC Aviation Digital Data Service: http://adds.aviationweather.noaa.gov.
- National Transportation Safety Board: www.ntsb.gov.
- CSC DUATS: www.duats.com.
- National Aeronautical Charting Office: www.naco.faa.gov.
What are the 3 types of weather briefings?
Three basic types of preflight briefings are available to serve your specific needs. These are: Standard Briefing, Abbreviated Briefing, and Outlook Briefing. You should specify to the briefer the type of briefing you want, along with your appropriate background information.
What is TAF weather?
A Terminal Aerodrome Forecast (TAF) is a concise statement of the expected meteorological conditions at an airport during a specified period (usually 24 hours). Each ICAO state may modify the code as needed.
What does METAR stand for?
Aviation Routine Weather Report
METAR is the international standard code format for hourly surface weather observations which is analogous to the SA coding currently used in the US. The acronym roughly translates from French as Aviation Routine Weather Report.
What does 9999 mean in a TAF?
Visibility 9999 means the visibility is greater than 10 km. / / means this part of the METAR is not available (ie cloud and visibility not available from an automated weather station)
What does 9900 mean on winds aloft?
A winds aloft forecast of 2722, for example, would indicate 22 knots of wind from 270 degrees. 9900 means no specific direction (variable) and less than 5 knots (light). ( Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge, page 12-14)
Where can I find the weather forecast for the local airports?
Most of the airport weather stations can be found on the FAA map of station configurations. The NWS Austin/San Antonio WFO (EWX) in New Braunfels, TX is responsible for the Terminal Aerodrome Forecasts (TAFs) at four local airports in South Central Texas. These routine forecasts are issued by 00Z, 06Z, 12Z, and 18Z, with amendments as needed.
Where do the weather reports come from?
Hourly and special weather reports are available as METAR text data from ASOS equipment owned and maintained by the NWS/FAA/DoD or third-party AWOS equipment owned and maintained by the FAA, DoD, TxDOT, and local public/private organizations at airports across the region.
What is the Aviation Weather Center?
The Aviation Weather Center delivers consistent, timely and accurate weather information for the world airspace system. We are a team of highly skilled people dedicated to working with customers and partners to enhance safe and efficient flight. Our Vision: To be the trusted authority and leading innovator for aviation weather information.
What is an airport weather warning (AWW)?
Austin/San Antonio WFO (EWX) also issues an Airport Weather Warning (AWW) at Austin Bergstrom International (AUS) or San Antonio International (SAT) when ground weather conditions warrant, such as lightning in the vicinity.