Preflight Weather Analysis Lesson 4 Part 4 of 4
|
|
- Shauna Andrews
- 5 years ago
- Views:
Transcription
1 Preflight Weather Analysis Lesson 4 Part 4 of 4 Presented by Find-it Fast Books Unlimited FREE Downloads of this course available at 1
2 The slide sequence for Lesson 4 is a little different than the previous lessons. Each slide presented for your review is followed by a subsequent slide offering more explanation or a brief discussion. 2
3 METAR and SPECI Current Conditions Partial Obscurations Sky Partially Obscured by a Ground Based Phenomenon Amount of Obscuration: FEW SCT BKN Followed by Three Zeros Reference: Page 28 - The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 3
4 Obscurations are reported when the sky is partially obscured by a ground based phenomenon by indicating the amount of obscuration as FEW, SCT, or BKN followed by three zeros (000) in the body of the METAR. A METAR makes no distinction between a partial obscuration and a cloud layer in the body of a report. The METAR encodes the obscuration as a cloud layer whose base is below 50 feet. REMARKS will report the type of obscuration. 4
5 METAR and SPECI Current Conditions Partial Obscurations FEW000 Greater Than 0 to 2/8 of the Sky is Obscured) KSFO Z 00000KT 4SM BR FEW000 22/21 A2995 RMK BR FEW000 Spoken as: Few clouds less than five zero (feet) (in Remarks) Mist obscuring up to two-eighths of the sky Reference: Page 28 - The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 5
6 Here are the obscuration values for FEW -- Zero to two-eighths of the sky obscured. The example on the slide highlights the partial obscuration value in the body of the METAR in red. Notice that REMARKS reports the type of obscuration as, in the example on the previous page, Mist (BR), also highlighted in red. 6
7 METAR and SPECI Current Conditions Partial Obscurations SCT000 Greater Than 3/8 to 4/8 of the Sky is Obscured KSFO Z 00000KT 4SM BR SCT000 22/21 A2995 RMK BR SCT000 Spoken as: Scattered clouds less than five zero (feet) (in Remarks) Mist obscuring three to four-eighths of the sky Reference: Page 28 - The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 7
8 The previous slide shows the obscuration values for Scattered (SCT): Three-eighths to four-eighths of the sky obscured. The example on the previous slide highlights the partial obscuration value in the body of the METAR in red. Notice that REMARKS reports the type of obscuration as, in the example on the previous page, also Mist (BR), highlighted in red. 8
9 METAR and SPECI Current Conditions Partial Obscurations BKN000 Between 5/8 and 7/8 of the Sky is Obscured KSFO Z 00000KT 1/2SM FG BKN000 22/21 A2995 RMK FG BKN000 Spoken as: Broken clouds less than five zero (feet) (in Remarks) Fog obscuring five to seven-eighths of the sky Reference: Page 28 - The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 9
10 The previous slide shows the obscuration values for Broken (BKN): Five-eighths to seven-eighths of the sky obscured. The example on the slide highlights the partial obscuration value in the body of the METAR in red. Notice that REMARKS reports the type of obscuration as, in the example on the previous page, Fog (FG), also highlighted in red. 10
11 METAR and SPECI Current Conditions Sky Condition METAR KSEA Z AUTO 33018KT 1/2SM R31/2600FT +SN BLSN FG VV008 00/M03 A2991 RMK A02 RAESNB42 SLPNO T VV Spoken as Indefinite Ceiling 800 (feet) VV = Vertical Visibility -- Surface Based A Complete Obscuration -- Total Sky Coverage Reference: Page 29 - The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 11
12 VV stands for vertical visibility. When you see VV, a surface based phenomena is occurring. As opposed to the partial obscuration covered on the previous slides, vertical visibility refers to a total, full obscuration -- Total sky coverage is 100 percent. If surface-based obscurations like fog, smoke, haze are reported, and the lowest broken or overcast cloud base cannot be determined, then vertical visibility in hundreds of feet determines the ceiling. 12
13 METAR and SPECI Current Conditions Sky Condition Sky Cover is Reported in EIGHTHS of Coverage Using the Below Contractions: AGL Reportable Summation Contractions Meaning Amount VV Indefinite Ceiling 8/8 (vertical visibility) SKC or CLR Clear 0 or 0 below 12,000 FEW Few > 0 but < 2/8 SCT Scattered 3/8 to 4/8 BKN Broken 5/8 to 7/8 OVC Overcast 8/8 CB Cumulonimbus When present TCU Towering Cumulus When present Reference: Page 29 - The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 13
14 Sky Cover is Reported in eighths of Coverage. The sky cover summation amount for a given layer of clouds is the sum of the sky cover of all lower cloud layers plus the layer evaluated, all added together. A ceiling is determined by the first broken (BKN) or Overcast (OVC) layer. All cloud layers are considered opaque. There are no Thin cloud layers in METARs. METAR stations report cloud layers above the surface, in other words, above ground level (AGL). 14
15 METAR and SPECI Current Conditions Sky Condition SKC or CLR = Clear or Clear below 12,000 CLR Used at Automated Stations No Layers at or Below 12,000 Feet SKC Used at Manual Stations When No Cloud Layers Reported Reference: Page 29 - The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 15
16 The abbreviation CLR is used at automated stations when no layers at or below 12,000 feet are reported. Automated stations do not report clouds above 12,000 feet. So, if a METAR reports clear below 12,000 (CLR), cloud layers may exist above 12,000 feet. The abbreviation SKC is used at manual stations when no cloud layers are reported. 16
17 METAR and SPECI Current Conditions Sky Condition CB = Cumulonimbus (Thunderstorm) TCU = Towering Cumulus (Developing Thunderstorm) Appended to Associated Cloud Layer Example: SCT015TCU Reference: Pages The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 17
18 Cumulonimbus (CB) or towering cumulus (TCU) coding is appended to the associated layer of reported clouds. For example, a scattered layer of towering cumulus at 1,500 feet would be coded SCT015TCU and would be followed by a space, then any additional higher cloud layers. CB and TCU are considered significant clouds due to the flight hazard of severe turbulence, among others, associated with them. 18
19 METAR and SPECI Current Conditions Sky Condition Additional CB or TCU Data In REMARKS: Distance (If Known) Direction From Station - or If Overhead (OHD) Direction of Movement (If Known) DSNT (Distant) - Clouds Beyond 10 Miles From Airport Reference: Pages The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 19
20 Additional information about the CB or TCU will be reported in the REMARKs element of a METAR: 20
21 METAR and SPECI Current Conditions Sky Condition CBMAM -- Cumulonimbus Mammatus ACC -- Altocumulus Castellanus ACSL -- Standing Lenticular Altocumulus CCSL -- Standing Lenticular Cirrocumulus ROTOR CLOUD Reference: Page 30 - The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 21
22 There are other significant cloud types that are more rarely seen which are thunderstorm or severe turbulence fight hazards, as well: CBMAM - Thunderstorm and severe turbulence. ACC - Severe turbulence ACSL - Severe turbulence Rotor Cloud - Violent, rotating severe turbulence. A Rotor cloud is a horizontally aligned cloud formation preceding the most severe thunderstorms. 22
23 METAR and SPECI Current Conditions Sky Condition Examples of Significant Clouds in REMARKS: CB N MOV E Cumulonimbus North Moving East CBMAM DSNT W Cumulonimbus Mammatus Distant West ACC NE - E Altocumulus Castellanus Northeast Through East APRNT ROTOR CLD W Apparent Rotor Cloud West Reference: Page 30 - The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 23
24 As you can see, distance, direction, and direction of movement are reported in the remarks, on the previous slide, to aid a pilot in determining the location of these hazardous clouds and their relationship to the reporting station. 24
25 METAR and SPECI Current Conditions Sky Condition Variable Ceiling Below 3,000 Feet -- CIG in REMARKS Followed by Lowest and Highest Ceiling Heights Separated by a V Example: CIG 006V012 Reference: Page 31 - The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 25
26 Whenever a ceiling below 3,000 feet is reported and it is variable, CIG will be shown in remarks followed by the lowest and highest ceiling heights separated by a V. Example: CIG 006V012 Ceiling variable between six hundred and one thousand two hundred 26
27 METAR and SPECI Current Conditions Sky Condition Variable Sky Cover -- in REMARKS Separated by a V Examples: SCT V BKN BKN V OVC Reference: Page 31 - The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 27
28 When a layer of clouds varies in sky cover, the variability range is shown in remarks, separated by a V. Example: BKN V OVC Broken layer variable to overcast. 28
29 METAR and SPECI Current Conditions Sky Condition Reporting Station in Mountains: If Cloud Layer BELOW Station Height Cloud Layer Base = Three Slashes Example: /// Reference: Pages The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 29
30 At weather reporting stations located in the mountains, if a cloud layer is reported that is below the station level height, the height will be shown as three slashes: /// 30
31 METAR and SPECI Current Conditions Temperature / Dew Point METAR KSEA Z AUTO 33018KT 1/2SM R31/2600FT +SN BLSN FG VV008 00/M03 A2991 RMK A02 RAESNB42 SLPNO T Two Digits Separated by Slash Celsius M = Minus (Below Zero) Reference: Page 33 - The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 31
32 Temperature and dew point are reported in two digits each in whole degrees CELSIUS, separated by a slant ( / ). In this example: 00/M03 is spoken as Temperature zero, dew point minus three. Temperatures and dew points below zero are preceded with an M for Minus. 32
33 METAR and SPECI Current Conditions Temperature / Dew Point METAR KSEA Z AUTO 33018KT 1/2SM R31/2600FT +SN BLSN FG VV008 00/ A2991 RMK A02 RAESNB42 SLPNO T If Temperature Available But Dew Point Missing Temperature Followed by a Slant Reference: Page 33 - The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 33
34 If the temperature is available but the dew point is missing, the temperature is shown followed by a slant ( / ). 34
35 METAR and SPECI Current Conditions Temperature / Dew Point METAR KSEA Z AUTO 33018KT 1/2SM R31/2600FT +SN BLSN FG VV008 A2991 RMK A02 RAESNB42 SLPNO T If Temperature Missing Entire Group Omitted From METAR Reference: Page 33 - The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 35
36 If the temperature is missing, the entire group is omitted from the METAR. 36
37 METAR and SPECI Current Conditions Altimeter METAR KSEA Z AUTO 33018KT 1/2SM R31/2600FT +SN BLSN FG VV008 00/M03 A2991 RMK A02 RAESNB42 SLPNO T Digit Barometric Pressure Reading Preceded with A No Decimal Point A2991 Altimeter Two Niner-Niner One Reference: Page 34 - The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 37
38 The altimeter setting is reported in four digits representing tens, units, tenths, and hundredths of inches of mercury -- the barometric pressure. The decimal is not noted or stated. It is preceded with an A. An altimeter setting of inches of mercury would be depicted as: A2991 Altimeter two niner-niner one. 38
39 METAR and SPECI Current Conditions Altimeter METAR KSEA Z AUTO 33018KT 1/2SM R31/2600FT +SN BLSN FG VV008 00/M03 A2991 RMK PRESRR PRESRR = Pressure Rising Rapidly PRESFR = Pressure Falling Rapidly Pressure Change of 0.06 Inch Per Hour Pressure Change of 0.02 Inch During Observation Reference: Page 34 - The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 39
40 When barometric pressure is rising or falling at a rate of at least 0.06 inches per hour and the pressure change totals 0.02 inches or more at the time of the observation, REMARKs will show PRESRR or PRESFR, respectively. These rapid pressure changes sometimes occur during strong thunderstorm activity, or during strong, fast moving frontal passages. 40
41 METAR and SPECI Current Conditions Remarks METAR KSEA Z AUTO 33018KT 1/2SM R31/2600FT +SN BLSN FG VV008 00/M03 A2991 RMK A02 RAESNB42 SLPNO T $ 2 Major Groups Automated -- Manual -- Plain Language Additive and Maintenance Data Maintenance Indicator -- $ Reference: Pages The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 41
42 Remarks are broken into two major groups: (1) Automated, Manual, and Plain Language followed by: (2) Additive and Maintenance Data. A maintenance indicator sign, $, is appended to the end of an automated weather report when the unit detects that maintenance is needed on the system The METAR, itself, is valid, but you may notice an element missing due to the maintenance issue. 42
43 METAR and SPECI Current Conditions Remarks METAR KSEA Z 33018KT 2SM SN 00/M03 A2991 RMK RAESNB42 Time Entries: Same Hour -- 2 Digits -- Minutes Past the Hour Different Hour -- 4 Digits -- Hours and Minutes RAESNB42 = Rain Ended, Snow Began at :42 Past the Hour Reference: Pages The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 43
44 Time entries are made in minutes past the hour if the time reported occurs during the same hour the observation is taken. Hours and minutes are used if the hour is different. Again, note the example on the previous slide : Rain ended and snow began at :42 past the hour. 44
45 METAR and SPECI Current Conditions Remarks KTPA Z 00000KT 10SM TS BKN020 OVC040 26/23 A2991 RMK TS MOV NE Movement: Direction Weather Moving Toward Clockwise 8 Point Compass Directions TS MOV NE = Thunderstorm Moving Northeast Reference: Pages The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 45
46 Movement of clouds or weather, if known, is coded with respect to the direction toward which the phenomena is moving. Directions use the eight points of the compass coded in clockwise order. For example, a thunderstorm moving toward the northeast would be coded as TS MOV NE. 46
47 METAR and SPECI Current Conditions Remarks METAR KSEA Z AUTO 33018KT 1/2SM R31/2600FT +SN BLSN FG VV008 00/M03 A2991 RMK A02 RAESNB42 SLP982 T $ Sea Level Pressure -- SLP (Millibars) Example: SLP982 Do Not Confuse SLP with Altimeter Setting If SLP Not Available = SLPNO Reference: Pages The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 47
48 At some designated stations, the sea-level pressure is shown in remarks where SLP is followed by the sea-level pressure in millibars. Non-U.S. international pilots may use sea level pressure as opposed to the altimeter setting. Do not confuse SLP with the altimeter setting. If sea-level pressure is not available, it will be shown as SLPNO. 48
49 METAR and SPECI Current Conditions Remarks METAR KSEA Z AUTO 33018KT 1/2SM R31/2600FT +SN BLSN FG VV008 00/M03 A2991 RMK A02 RAESNB42 SLPNO T AUTO in Report Body = No Human Intervention A01 = NO Precipitation Discriminator A02 = CAN Determine Type of Precipitation Reference: Pages The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 49
50 The word AUTO in the body of a METAR identifies an automated weather report with no human intervention. A01 or A02 will be in REMARKS with automated reports. A01 means NO precipitation discriminator. A02 means a precipitation discriminator can determine type of precipitation. 50
51 METAR and SPECI Current Conditions Remarks METAR KSEA Z AUTO 33018KT 1/2SM R31/2600FT +SN BLSN FG VV008 00/M03 A2991 RMK A02 RAESNB42 SLPNO T TSNO A METAR Trap! TSNO Does NOT Mean No Thunderstorms TSNO Means Thunderstorm Information IS NOT AVAILABLE Reference: Page 35 - Preflight Weather Analysis Made Easy, by Find-it Fast Books, website 51
52 A METAR Trap: In the remarks section of a METAR, you may see the term TSNO. This remark does NOT mean there are no thunderstorms. TSNO means thunderstorm information is not available. Thunderstorms occurring at this METAR location would not be reported. If conditions are favorable for thunderstorm development, be sure to check other resources. 52
53 METAR and SPECI Current Conditions Remarks MT. HOOD VOLCANO 50 MILES W ERUPTED LARGE ASH CLOUD EXTENDING TO APPROX FEET MOVING E Reference: Pages The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 53
54 The number of remarks for METARs is extremely large. Some REMARK entries were explained in earlier slides. In the remaining slides, we will take a look at some other important and common remarks you are likely to encounter in METARs. We ll begin this series with the seldom seen, but most important remark of all, Volcanic Eruptions, as shown on the previous slide. No coding is used in this remark. It is entirely written out in plain text for clarity. 54
55 METAR and SPECI Current Conditions Remarks Tornado -- Funnel Cloud -- Waterspout: (In METAR Body) FC = Funnel Cloud (In METAR Body) +FC = Tornado or Waterspout Example: TORNADO B15 DSNT SE Tornado Began at 15 Past the Hour, to the Distant Southeast Reported by Manual Stations Only Reference: Pages The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 55
56 Tornadoes, Funnel Clouds, and Waterspouts are reported at manual stations only. The body of the METAR will report the tornado, funnel cloud or waterspout, and in REMARKs, additional information will indicate beginning time, location, distance, movement, and ending time, if known. Example: TORNADO B15 DSNT SE Tornado began one five past the hour to the distant Southeast. 56
57 METAR and SPECI Current Conditions Remarks Peak Wind: In REMARKs When Exceeds 25 Knots Example: PK WND 25035/1825 Peak wind two five zero at three five occurred at one eight two five Example: PK WND 32040/26 Peak wind three two zero at four zero occurred at two six past the hour Reference: Pages The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 57
58 Peak Wind (PK WND) - Whenever the peak wind exceeds 25 knots, PK WND will be included in remarks. Example: PK WND 25035/1825 Peak wind two five zero at three five occurred at one eight two five. Example: PK WND 32040/26 Peak wind three two zero at four zero occurred at two six past the hour. 58
59 METAR and SPECI Current Conditions Remarks Lightning: Frequency Type Location Reference: Pages The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 59
60 Lightning (LTG) When lightning is seen by the weather observer, it will be included in remarks. The frequency of occurrence, type of lightning when observed, and the location will be indicated. The location is determined in reference to the point of observation. 60
61 METAR and SPECI Current Conditions Remarks Frequency of Lightning: OCNL -- Occasional -- Less Than 1 Flash Per Minute FRQ -- Frequent -- About 1 to 6 Flashes Per Minute CONS -- Continuous -- More Than 6 Flashes Per Minute Reference: Pages The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 61
62 The frequency of lightning is based on flashes per minute, as shown on the previous slide: OCNL Occasional (less than 1 flash per minute) FRQ Frequent (about 1 to 6 flashes per minute) CONS Continuous (more than 6 flashes per minute) 62
63 METAR and SPECI Current Conditions Remarks Types of Lightning: CG -- Cloud to Ground IC -- In Cloud CC -- Cloud to Cloud CA -- Cloud to Air Reference: Pages The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 63
64 Again, as shown on the previous slide: Types of Lightning include: CG Cloud to ground IC In cloud CC Cloud to cloud CA Cloud to air 64
65 METAR and SPECI Current Conditions Remarks Examples of Lightning in REMARKS: FRQ LTG VC Frequent Lightning in the Vicinity of the Station CONS LTGCC NE Continuous Lightning Cloud to Cloud, Northeast LTG DSNT S Lightning Distant South Reference: Pages The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 65
66 The previous slide shows some examples of lightning common in METAR REMARKs you will see during reported thunderstorms, repeated here: FRQ LTG VC Frequent lightning in the vicinity of the station CONS LTGCC NE Continuous lightning cloud to cloud, Northeast LTG DSNT S Lightning distant South 66
67 METAR and SPECI Current Conditions Remarks Begin / End Times of Precipitation: Type of Precipitation Reported With Beginning and / or End Times Not Required in SPECI Reports Shown in Next METAR Reference: Pages The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 67
68 When precipitation begins or ends, REMARKS will show the type of precipitation as well as the beginning and/or ending time(s) of occurrence. Intensity is not shown. Only the minutes are required if the hour can be inferred from the report time. Types of precipitation may be combined if beginning or ending times are the same. These remarks are not required in SPECI reports but will be shown in the next METAR. 68
69 METAR and SPECI Current Conditions Remarks Begin / End Times of Precipitation: Type of Precipitation Reported With Beginning and / or End Times Example: RAB05E30SNB20E55 Reference: Pages The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 69
70 The previous slide is an example of precipitation beginning and ending times: RAB05E30SNB20E55 This is spoken as: Rain began at zero five, ended at three zero, snow began at two zero, ended at five five. 70
71 METAR and SPECI Current Conditions Remarks Begin / End Times of Thunderstorms Thunderstorm Reported With Beginning and / or End Times Required in SPECI Reports Shown in Next METAR Reference: Pages The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 71
72 When thunderstorms begin or end, REMARKS will show the thunderstorm as well as the beginning and/or ending time(s) of occurrence. Only minutes will be shown if the hour can be inferred from the time of the weather report. These remarks are required in SPECIs and will also be shown in the next METAR. 72
73 METAR and SPECI Current Conditions Remarks Begin / End Times of Thunderstorms Thunderstorm Reported With Beginning and / or End Times Example: TSB05E40 Reference: Pages The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 73
74 The previous slide is an example of thunderstorm beginning and ending times: TSB05E40 This is spoken as: Thunderstorm began at zero five, ended at four zero. 74
75 METAR and SPECI Current Conditions Remarks Examples of Thunderstorms in REMARKS: TS OHD MOV E Thunderstorm overhead, moving east TS VC NE MOV E Thunderstorm in the vicinity northeast, moving east TS DSNT N MOV SE Thunderstorm distant north, moving southeast Reference: Pages The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 75
76 The previous slide shows some examples of thunderstorm REMARKs you will see during reported thunderstorms: TS OHD MOV E Thunderstorm overhead, moving east. TS VC NE MOV E Thunderstorm in the vicinity northeast, moving east. TS DSNT N MOV SE Thunderstorm distant north, moving southeast. 76
77 METAR and SPECI Current Conditions Remarks Hailstones: GR = Large Hail Two-Tenths Inch or Greater GS = Small Hail or Snow Pellets -- Not Reported in REMARKs Example of Large Hailstones in REMARKs: GR 3/4 Hailstones Three Quarter Inch in Diameter Reference: Pages The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 77
78 The METAR reporting code for large hail twotenths of an inch or greater in diameter is GR, while smaller hailstones are coded GS. The size of the largest hailstones, in 1/4 inch increments, is shown in remarks preceded with the contraction for hail, GR. If small hail or snow pellets (GS) are encoded in the body of the report, no remark will be shown in reference to size. Example: GR 3/4 Hailstones three quarter inch in diameter 78
79 METAR and SPECI Current Conditions Remarks VIRGA: Precipitation Not Reaching the Ground Examples of VIRGA in REMARKS: VIRGA Virga at the Station VIRGA DSNT SE Virga Distant Southeast Reference: Pages The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 79
80 When precipitation is observed but is not reaching the ground, VIRGA is shown in remarks. The direction from the station may also be reported. Examples: VIRGA Virga at the station VIRGA DSNT SE Virga distant Southeast 80
81 METAR and SPECI Current Conditions Remarks 2nd Site Ceiling: At Automated Stations Cloud Height at Second Location Example: CIG 010 RY22 Ceiling One Thousand at Runway Two-Two Reference: Pages The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 81
82 2nd Site (Ceiling) Some automated weather reporting stations may show site specific cloud heights at a secondary location in remarks. The remark format is CIG (cloud height) (location). Example: CIG 010 RY22 Ceiling one thousand at runway two two 82
83 METAR and SPECI Current Conditions Remarks ADDITIVE and AUTOMATED MAINTENANCE DATA: METAR KSEA Z AUTO 33018KT 290V360 1/2SM R31/2600FT +SN BLSN FG VV008 00/M03 A2991 RMK A02 RAESNB42 SLPNO T Additive Data Used by Meteorologists Additive Data Some Maintenance Data Significant to Pilots Reference: Pages The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 83
84 Additive data groups are reported at designated weather reporting stations. Most remarks in this category are not operationally significant for aviation purposes and are used by meteorologists. The maintenance data groups are only reported from automated weather reporting stations. The next slides show a few remarks that have significance to you by indicating the unavailability of certain weather sensors. 84
85 METAR and SPECI Current Conditions Remarks Operationally Significant Maintenance Indicators: TSNO -- Thunderstorm information not available FZRANO -- Freezing rain information not available RVRNO -- Runway visual range information not available NOSPECI -- No special weather reports Reference: Pages The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 85
86 If an automated weather reporting station is equipped with thunderstorm or freezing rain sensors and they are not working, remarks will indicate this information is not available. If the runway visual range (RVR) element in the body of the weather report should be reported but is missing, RVRNO will be in remarks. At manual weather observing stations that do not take special weather reports, NOSPECI is shown in remarks of all METAR reports. 86
87 METAR and SPECI Current Conditions Remarks Operationally Significant Maintenance Indicators: VISNO -- Visibility sensor information not available CHINO -- Sky condition at secondary location not available PWINO -- Present weather identifier not available PNO -- Precipitation amount not available Reference: Pages The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 87
88 On the previous slide are some additional maintenance indicator remarks that have significance to you by indicating the unavailability of certain weather sensors. For example, if the visibility sensor not working, VISNO will be shown in remarks. If you find some reporting elements in the body of a METAR omitted, REMARKs entries may explain why. 88
89 PILOT REPORT (PIREP) Are There Any Pilot Reports Near My Route of Flight? Routine Pilot Report (UA) SGF UA/ OV SGF /TM 1550 /FL030 /TP C210 /SK OVC027-TOP060 /TA M08 /TB LGT-MDT CHOP /IC LGT-MOD MX /RM IC Urgent Pilot Report (UUA) SGF UUA/ OV SGF /TM 1550 /FL030 /TP C210 /SK OVC037-TOP060 /TA M08 /TB LGT-MDT CHOP /IC SEV MX /RM IC Reference: Page 37 Preflight Weather Analysis Made Easy by Find-it Fast Books, website 89
90 A pilot report, or PIREP, is a report of actual weather conditions encountered by an aircraft in flight. This information is usually relayed by radio to the nearest flight service station or ATC facility (Tower or Center). There are two types of Pilot Reports. The Routine Pilot Report is designated by UA. The Urgent Pilot Report is identified by the three letters UUA. Flight Service specialists solicit Pilot Reports from pilots to encourage more frequent reports of inflight conditions. Pilot Reports are an excellent source of enroute weather conditions between weather reporting locations. 90
91 PILOT REPORT (PIREP) Actual Inflight Weather Conditions Reported Disseminated as Soon as Reported Coordinated Universal Time Nautical Miles Celsius Temperatures True North Wind Vectors Reference: Page 37 Preflight Weather Analysis Made Easy by Find-it Fast Books, website 91
92 PIREPs are a supplementary resource for in flight weather conditions that verify forecasts and supplement the METARs while filling in the gaps between ground reporting stations. They are disseminated as soon as received, using Coordinated Universal Time. Distances are in nautical miles. Temperatures in Celsius. And all winds are reported from TRUE north. 92
93 PILOT REPORT (PIREP) Reporting Elements /OV Over /TM Time (UTC) /FL Altitude /TP Type Aircraft /SK Sky Condition /TA Temperature (Celsius) /TB Turbulence /IC Icing /RM Remarks Reference: Page 37 Preflight Weather Analysis Made Easy by Find-it Fast Books, website 93
94 /OV References location, using a VHF NAVAID or airport identifiers. /TM Is the time the reported phenomenon occurred or was encountered. /FL Altitude/flight level is reported in hundreds of feet (MSL) where a phenomenon was first encountered. /TP Aircraft type is mandatory for all icing and turbulence PIREPS. /SK Sky condition is the reported height of cloud bases, tops, and cloud coverage, in hundreds of feet MSL, in 3 digits. When more than one layer is reported, layers are separated by a slant (/). /IC The reported icing altitude is completed if different from the reported altitude element ( /FL ). /TB The reported turbulence altitude is completed if different from the reported altitude element ( /FL ). /RM Remarks are plain text to clarify previously reported elements or to add more information describing in flight weather. 94
95 PILOT REPORT (PIREP) Reporting Elements (Nearest Weather Reporting Station) SGF UA/ OV SGF /TM 1550 /FL030 /TP C210 /SK OVC027-TOP060 /TA M08 /TB LGT-MDT CHOP /IC LGT-MOD MX /RM IC When an Element is Not Reported It is Omitted Example: SGF UA/OV SGF /TM 1500 /FL020 /TP C210 /TB MOD Reference: Page 37 Preflight Weather Analysis Made Easy by Find-it Fast Books, website 95
96 Pilot Reports are coded to appear with the METAR location nearest the conditions being reported. On the previous slide, the sample Pilot Report at SGF is the Springfield-Branson Airport in Springfield, Missouri. If a pilot planned a flight to or from the Springfield airport, this PIREP would be available for review during the preflight weather analysis, since SGF is coded into the PIREP. 96
97 PILOT REPORT (PIREP) SGF UUA/ OV SGF /TM 1400 /FL030 /TP C210 /SK OVC037-TOP050 /TA M08 /TB LGT-MDT /RM LLWS DURGC Severe Icing Severe or Extreme Turbulence or CAT Low Level Wind Shear Hail -- Volcanic Ash Clouds Tornadoes Funnel Clouds Waterspouts Reference: Page 37 Preflight Weather Analysis Made Easy by Find-it Fast Books, website 97
98 Urgent Pilot Reports are issued whenever any of the following phenomena occur: Severe Icing (SEV). Severe or extreme turbulence (SEV / XTRM) (including clear air turbulence (CAT). Low level wind shear (LLWS), with airspeed fluctuations of more than 10 knots. Large Hail (GR) and small hail (GS). Volcanic ash clouds. Tornadoes, funnel clouds, or waterspouts. Or any other weather phenomena an issuing FSS specialist considers hazardous to aircraft. 98
99 PILOT REPORT (PIREP) Always Note Type Aircraft Compare Intensities Airliner Light Aircraft MOD Turbulence Equates to SEV Turbulence MOD Icing Equates to SEV Icing Note Time of the PIREP to Determine Validity Reference: Page 37 Preflight Weather Analysis Made Easy by Find-it Fast Books, website 99
100 Note the type of aircraft when evaluating pilot reports. A report of moderate turbulence for an airliner would likely translate to severe turbulence for a much smaller aircraft. The same comparison holds true for icing, as well. The age of a PIREP would be an important consideration, as well. Older PIREPs may no longer offer valid information, since the reported weather event may have significantly changed. 100
101 PILOT REPORT (PIREP) SGF UUA/ OV SGF /TM 1400 /FL030 /TP C210 /SK OVC037-TOP050 /TA M08 /TB LGT-MDT /RM LLWS DURGC RM = Remarks To Report Weather Not Included in Elements To Clarify Reporting Elements Low Level Wind Shear Entered Here To Report Weather at Altitudes Other Than Reporting Altitude Reference: Page 37 Preflight Weather Analysis Made Easy by Find-it Fast Books, website 101
102 Remarks are for reporting weather not included in elements, or to clarify previously reported elements. Plain text can be used to describe the weather phenomena to clarify the event. Low level wind shear (LLWS) reports for departing and landing aircraft are typically listed here. Details on the occurrence of icing, turbulence, cloud cover, etc., will be noted here if the weather event occurred at a different altitude than the altitude of the aircraft at the time of the pilot report, or if an aircraft was climbing or descending. 102
103 TAF What is the Forecast at My Departure Airport? TAF KOKC Z 0512/ KT 5SM BR BKN030 TEMPO 0513/ /2SM BR FM KT P6SM SKC BECMG 0522/ G20KT 4SM SHRA OVC020 PROB /0606 2SM TSRA OVC008CB BECMG 0606/ KT P6SM NSW SCT040 5 Statute Mile Radius Reference: Page 38 - Preflight Weather Analysis Made Easy, by Find-it Fast Books, website 103
104 Compare the TAF with the current weather for the same time period at your destination airport. Does the current weather and the TAF agree? Is the weather better or worse than forecast? If worse, be suspicious of the forecast. Look at weather trends upwind from your departure airport. Are they better or worse than forecast? Look for amended TAFs. Forecasters seldom ever issue amendments for improving weather. Typically, only TAFs are amended where the weather is deteriorating faster or lower than expected. A newly issued TAF is more accurate for the near future than the previous older TAF where the later portion of the older TAF covers your takeoff. If your schedule permits, get the fresh TAF. 104
105 TAF Terminal Aerodrome Forecast TAF KOKC Z 0512/ KT 5SM BR BKN030 TEMPO 0513/ /2SM BR FM KT P6SM SKC BECMG 0522/ G20KT 4SM SHRA OVC020 PROB /0606 2SM TSRA OVC008CB BECMG 0606/ KT P6SM NSW SCT Hour Airport Forecast 32 Air Carrier Airports Hour Forecast Same Weather Code as METARs Reference: Page 47 - The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 105
106 A Routine Aviation Terminal Forecast, called a TAF, is a concise statement of the expected meteorological conditions at an airport during a specified period, usually 24 hours. 32 of the larger air carrier high-impact U.S. airports issue 30 hour TAFs. TAFs use the same weather code as found in METARs. 106
107 TAF Terminal Aerodrome Forecast TAF KOKC Z 0512/ KT 5SM BR BKN030 TEMPO 0513/ /2SM BR FM KT P6SM SKC BECMG 0522/ G20KT 4SM SHRA OVC020 PROB /0606 2SM TSRA OVC008CB BECMG 0606/ KT P6SM NSW SCT Hour Airport Forecast Issued Every 6 Hours 0000Z 0600Z 1200Z 1800Z Reference: Page 47 - The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 107
108 Looking at the 24 hour format on the TAF on the previous slide, its Valid Period and Time, begins at 1200Z, on the 5th of the month, and ends 24 hours later at 1200z, on the 6th of the month. Z = Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) 108
109 TAF Terminal Aerodrome Forecast TAF KSFO Z 0512/ KT 5SM BR BKN030 TEMPO 0513/ /2SM BR FM KT P6SM SKC BECMG 0522/ G20KT 4SM SHRA OVC020 PROB /0606 2SM TSRA OVC008CB BECMG 0606/ KT P6SM NSW SCT Hour Airport Forecast 32 Air Carrier Airports To Meet Long Haul Flight Requirements Reference: Pages 47, 49A - The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 109
110 The change of the 24 hour format to 30 hours was made to meet the requirements of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to provide a 30- hour TAF to support flight planning needs for long haul flights. Looking at the previous slide, this TAF s Valid Period and Time, the TAF forecast period begins at 1200Z, on the 5th of the month, and ends 30 hours later at 1800z, on the 6th of the month. The 30 hour TAFs have the same issuance times as the 24 hour TAFs: 0000Z 0600Z 1200Z 1800Z 110
111 TAF Terminal Aerodrome Forecast Type of Report TAF KOKC Z 0512/ KT 5SM BR BKN030 TEMPO 0513/ /2SM BR FM KT P6SM SKC BECMG 0522/ G20KT 4SM SHRA OVC020 PROB /0606 2SM TSRA OVC008CB BECMG 0606/ KT P6SM NSW SCT040 TAF = Routine TAF TAF AMD = Amended TAF Reference: Page 48 - The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 111
112 The report header will always appear as the first element in the TAF. There are two types of TAFs: A routine forecast, TAF; and an amended forecast, TAF AMD. An amended TAF is issued when the current TAF no longer adequately describes the ongoing weather or the forecaster feels the TAF is not representative of the current or expected weather. 112
113 TAF Terminal Aerodrome Forecast ICAO Station Identifier TAF KOKC Z 0512/ KT 5SM BR BKN030 TEMPO 0513/ /2SM BR FM KT P6SM SKC BECMG 0522/ G20KT 4SM SHRA OVC020 PROB /0606 2SM TSRA OVC008CB BECMG 0606/ KT P6SM NSW SCT040 K = International Civil Aviation Organization OKC = Oklahoma City, OK Reference: Page 48 - The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 113
114 The TAF code uses ICAO four-letter location identifiers as described in the METAR section. The K is the ICAO identifier for the United States. OKC is the location identifier for Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Will Rogers World Airport. 114
115 TAF Terminal Aerodrome Forecast Date and Time of Origin TAF KOKC Z 0512/ KT 5SM BR BKN030 TEMPO 0513/ /2SM BR FM KT P6SM SKC BECMG 0522/ G20KT 4SM SHRA OVC020 PROB /0606 2SM TSRA OVC008CB BECMG 0606/ KT P6SM NSW SCT040 Date and Time the Forecast is Prepared Z = Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) Reference: Page 49 - The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 115
116 This element is the Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) date and time the forecast is actually prepared. The format is a two-digit date and four digit time followed by the letter Z. Routine TAFs are prepared and filed approximately one-half hour before scheduled issuance times. TAFs are scheduled for issuance four times daily at 0000Z, 0600Z, 1200Z, and 1800Z. 116
117 TAF Terminal Aerodrome Forecast Valid Period Date and Time TAF KOKC Z 0512/ KT 5SM BR BKN030 TEMPO 0513/ /2SM BR FM KT P6SM SKC BECMG 0522/ G20KT 4SM SHRA OVC020 PROB /0606 2SM TSRA OVC008CB BECMG 0606/ KT P6SM NSW SCT040 Valid Periods Beginning at 0000Z Indicated by 00 Valid Periods Ending at 0000Z Indicated by 24 Reference: Page 49 - The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 117
118 The Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) valid period of the forecast is a two-digit date followed by the twodigit beginning hour, a slanted line, then a two-digit date followed by the two digit ending hour. Routine TAF s are valid for 24 hours. Valid periods beginning at 0000Z are indicated as 00. Valid periods ending at 0000Z are indicated as 24. The 24 indication applies to all times ending at 0000Z. As mentioned before, 32 air carrier airports issue 30 hour TAFs. 118
119 . TAF Terminal Aerodrome Forecast Valid Period Date and Time TAFs Issued at Part-Time Stations: NIL AMD SKED AFT (closing time) Z (No Amended or Scheduled TAF) Added to End of Forecast Reference: Page 49 - The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 119
120 Where an airport or terminal operates on a part-time basis, less than 24 hours a day, the TAFs issued for those locations will have the abbreviated statement NIL AMD SKED AFT (closing time)z, added to the end of the forecast. 120
121 . TAF Terminal Aerodrome Forecast Valid Period Date and Time TAFs Issued While Part-Time Stations Closed: NIL -- In Place of Forecast Text RTD -- Delayed Forecast Issued After 2 Complete Observations Reference: Page 49 - The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 121
122 For TAFs issued while part-time locations are closed,the word NIL will appear in place of the TAF text. A delayed (RTD) TAF will then be issued for these locations after the reporting station opens and two complete observations are taken. 122
123 TAF Terminal Aerodrome Forecast Forecast Meteorological Conditions TAF KOKC Z 0512/ KT 5SM BR BKN030 TEMPO 0513/ /2SM BR FM KT P6SM SKC BECMG 0522/ G20KT 4SM SHRA OVC020 PROB /0606 2SM TSRA OVC008CB BECMG 0606/ KT P6SM NSW SCT040 Winds -- Visibility -- Weather -- Sky Condition Significant Changes Denoted With: FM BCMG TEMPO Reference: Pages The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 123
124 The basic format of winds, visibility, weather and obscurations, sky condition, and wind shear all make up the Body of the TAF. These elements are always listed on the top line, and in this order. If a significant, lasting change in any of these elements is expected during the valid period, a new time period, denoted with FM, BECMG, or TEMPO is included describing the changes. This will discuss this a little more, shortly. 124
125 TAF Terminal Aerodrome Forecast Wind TAF KOKC Z 0512/ KT 5SM BR BKN030 TEMPO 0513/ /2SM BR FM KT P6SM SKC BECMG 0522/ G20KT 4SM SHRA OVC020 PROB /0606 2SM TSRA OVC008CB BECMG 0606/ KT P6SM NSW SCT040 Surface Winds in Knots -- KT Highest Expected Gust -- G Reference: Pages 50, 51 - The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 125
126 The wind group includes forecast surface winds. The surface wind forecast is the expected direction from which the wind is blowing. The first three digits indicate wind direction. Wind speed is indicated by the last two digits, or three if 100 knots or greater. The contraction KT, follows to denote the units of wind speed in knots. Wind gusts are noted by the letter G appended to the wind speed followed by the highest expected gust (two digits, or three, if 100 knots or greater). 126
127 TAF Terminal Aerodrome Forecast Variable Winds VRB = Variable Associated With Thunderstorms or Low Winds Examples: VRB16G28KT - Wind Variable at One-Six, Gust Two-Eight VRB03KT - Wind Variable at Three Reference: Pages 50, 51 - The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 127
128 Variable winds are encoded when it is impossible to forecast a wind direction due to winds associated with thunderstorms or low wind speeds. A variable wind direction is noted by VRB where the three digit direction usually appears. Examples: VRB16G28KT - Wind variable at one six gust two eight. VRB03KT - Wind Variable at Three. 128
129 TAF Terminal Aerodrome Forecast Optional Data (Wind Shear) Non-Convective Low Level Winds (up to 2000 feet) Entered After Sky Conditions if Wind Shear Expected Example: WS010/18040KT Low level wind shear at one thousand, wind one eight zero at four zero Reference: Page 52 - The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 129
130 Wind shear is the forecast of non-convective low level winds (up to 2000 feet) and is entered after the sky conditions when wind shear is expected. The forecast includes the height of the wind shear followed by the wind direction and wind speed at the indicated height. Height is given in hundreds of feet AGL up to and including 2,000 feet. Wind shear is encoded with the contraction WS followed by a three-digit height, a slant, and winds at the height indicated in the same format as surface winds. 130
131 TAF Terminal Aerodrome Forecast TEMPO TAF KOKC Z 0512/ KT 5SM BR BKN030 TEMPO 0513/ /2SM BR FM KT P6SM SKC BECMG 0522/ G20KT 4SM SHRA OVC020 PROB /0606 2SM TSRA OVC008CB BECMG 0606/ KT P6SM NSW SCT040 TEMPO = Occasional Forecast Conditions Generally Lasting Less Than an Hour Reference: Page 55 - The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 131
132 Think of TEMPO as occasional. It s used to describe forecast conditions which are generally expected to last for less than an hour. In the TAF on this slide, TEMPO 0513/ /2SM BR translates to: Occasional visibility one and one-half in mist (BR) between 1300 UTC and 1600 UTC on the fifth day. The next slide explains a very important point. 132
133 TAF Terminal Aerodrome Forecast TEMPO TAF KOKC Z 0512/ KT 5SM BR BKN030 TEMPO 0513/ /2SM BR FM KT P6SM SKC BECMG 0522/ G20KT 4SM SHRA OVC020 PROB /0606 2SM TSRA OVC008CB BECMG 0606/ KT P6SM NSW SCT040 TEMPO = Changing Conditions Only Basic Forecast in TAF Body Continues in Effect Reference: Page 55 - The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 133
134 In the TAF on the previous slide, TEMPO 0513/ /2SM BR translates to: Occasional visibility one and one-half in mist (BR) between 1300 UTC and 1600 UTC on the fifth day. However, it s very important to understand that the TEMPO time period includes only those elements which are expected to change. The basic forecast in the TAF body of 14008KT 5SM BR BKN030 continues to apply during the TEMPO time period. 134
135 TAF Terminal Aerodrome Forecast FM TAF KOKC Z 0512/ KT 5SM BR BKN030 TEMPO 0513/ /2SM BR FM KT P6SM SKC BECMG 0522/ G20KT 4SM SHRA OVC020 PROB /0606 2SM TSRA OVC008CB BECMG 0606/ KT P6SM NSW SCT040 FM = After FM = A Rapid Change Over Less Than 1 Hour Reference: Page 54 - The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 135
136 Think of from (FM) as after. From (FM) is used to forecast a rapid change in prevailing conditions, occurring over less than an hour. Typically, a rapid change of prevailing weather conditions to a completely new set of prevailing conditions is associated with a synoptic feature passing through the area, such as warm or cold frontal passage. 136
137 TAF Terminal Aerodrome Forecast FM TAF KOKC Z 0512/ KT 5SM BR BKN030 TEMPO 0513/ /2SM BR FM KT P6SM SKC BECMG 0522/ G20KT 4SM SHRA OVC020 PROB /0606 2SM TSRA OVC008CB BECMG 0606/ KT P6SM NSW SCT040 Contains If Applicable: Winds -- Visibility -- Weather -- Sky Condition Reference: Page 54 - The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 137
138 Appended to the from (FM) indicator is the sixdigit date, hour, and minute the change is expected to begin. It continues until the next change group or until the end of the current forecast. Each from group (FM) contains all the required elements - wind, visibility, weather, and sky condition, if they apply. 138
139 TAF Terminal Aerodrome Forecast BECMG TAF KOKC Z 0512/ KT 5SM BR BKN030 TEMPO 0513/ /2SM BR FM KT P6SM SKC BECMG 0522/ G20KT 4SM SHRA OVC020 PROB /0606 2SM TSRA OVC008CB BECMG 0606/ KT P6SM NSW SCT040 BECMG = A Gradual Change -- Usually Within 2 Hours Change Occurs at Unspecified Time Within 2 Hour Period Reference: Pages 54, 55 - The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 139
140 The becoming group (BECMG) is used when a gradual change in conditions is expected over a longer time period, usually two hours. The gradual change will occur at an unspecified time within this two hour time period. The time period, when the change is expected, is two four-digit groups. The beginning date & hour and the ending date & hour are separated by a slant. 140
141 TAF Terminal Aerodrome Forecast PROB40 TAF KOKC Z 0512/ KT 5SM BR BKN030 TEMPO 0513/ /2SM BR FM KT P6SM SKC BECMG 0522/ G20KT 4SM SHRA OVC020 PROB /0606 2SM TSRA OVC008CB BECMG 0606/ KT P6SM NSW SCT040 PROB40 = A Chance -- 30% to Less Than 50% Of a Thunderstorm or Form of Precipitation Occurring Reference: Page 53 - The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 141
142 The PROB40 group is used when the occurrence of thunderstorms or precipitation is in the 30% to less than 50% range. Thus the probability value 40 is appended to the PROB contraction. The time period, during which the thunderstorms or precipitation is expected, is two four-digit groups. The beginning date & hour and the ending date & hour are separated by a slant. 142
143 TAF Terminal Aerodrome Forecast PROB30 TAF KOKC Z 0512/ KT 5SM BR BKN030 TEMPO 0513/ /2SM BR FM KT P6SM SKC BECMG 0522/ G20KT 4SM SHRA OVC020 PROB /0606 1SM TSRA OVC004CB BECMG 0606/ KT P6SM NSW SCT040 PROB30 = A Slight Chance -- 10% to 29% Of a Thunderstorm or Form of Precipitation Occurring Reference: Page 53 - The METAR & TAF Quick Reference Manual, by Find-it Fast Books, website 143
144 The PROB30 group is used when the occurrence of thunderstorms or precipitation is in the 10% to 29% range. The time period, during which the thunderstorms or precipitation is expected, is two four-digit groups. The beginning date & hour and the ending date & hour are separated by a slant. 144
145 TAF Terminal Aerodrome Forecast NSW No Significant Weather A TAF TRAP! Refers to Visibility and Precipitation NOT Cloud Cover Clouds May Be Too Low for Safe VFR Flight! Reference: Page 38 - Preflight Weather Analysis Made Easy, by Find-it Fast Books, website 145
146 The contraction NSW is defined as No Significant Weather. This indicates that obstructions to visibility or precipitation previously noted in a TAF is expected to end. Pay special attention to the forecast cloud coverage and bases, which could actually be quite low so low, in fact, that safe VFR flight is not at all possible! 146
147 AREA FORECAST (FA) What is the Forecast Along My Route of Flight? General Picture of VFR Clouds and Weather Always Check AIRMET Sierra for Any IFR Weather Cloud Bases Are Forecast as MSL Unless AGL or CIG Are Noted Cloud Tops Are Always MSL Reference: Pages 40, 41 - Preflight Weather Analysis Made Easy, by Find-it Fast Books, website 147
148 An Area Forecast provides a general picture of VFR clouds and significant weather. Cloud bases are always forecast as MSL, unless AGL or CIG are noted. MSL means Mean Sea Level. AGL means Above Ground Level. CIG means Ceiling. When reviewing an Area Forecast, always check AIRMET Sierra for any IFR conditions expected along your route of flight. 148
149 AREA FORECAST (FA) Area Forecast Geographic Areas of Responsibility Each Area of Responsibility issues its own Area Forecast Issued 3 Times daily Reference: Pages 40, 41 - Preflight Weather Analysis Made Easy, by Find-it Fast Books, website 149
150 As with AIRMETs and SIGMETs, Area Forecasts are issued within the Areas of Responsibility shown on the map on the previous slide. The National Weather Service s Aviation Weather Center in Kansas City, Missouri, issues area forecasts three times a day for six areas that cover the contiguous 48 states. Each Area Forecast consists of a 12 hour forecast, plus a 6 hour categorical outlook. 150
151 AREA FORECAST (FA) Header Precautionary Statement Synopsis VFR Clouds and Weather Section Reference: Pages 40, 41 - Preflight Weather Analysis Made Easy, by Find-it Fast Books, website 151
152 Area Forecasts are written in abbreviated plain language using FAA standard contractions. All times are Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). Precipitation type and coverage are forecast, including thunderstorms. Visibilities are specified in statute miles. When using the Area Forecast, first look for the states that involve your planned route of flight. Then look for the state breakdowns associated with your route of flight to get a general VFR clouds weather picture. 152
153 AREA FORECAST (FA) Header Precautionary Statement Synopsis VFR Clouds and Weather Section Reference: Pages 40, 41 - Preflight Weather Analysis Made Easy, by Find-it Fast Books, website 153
154 The Header section lists: The issue time of Area forecast. The valid time of the synopsis (an 18 hour synopsis). A visual flight rules (VFR) CLOUDS/WX section, which is a 12 hour forecast, plus a 6 hour categorical outlook. And the areas of coverage by state identifier and coastal waters, if applicable. An Area Forecast can be: Amended (AMD) Corrected (COR) Delayed (RTD) 154
155 AREA FORECAST (FA) Header Precautionary Statement Synopsis VFR Clouds and Weather Section Reference: Pages 40, 41 - Preflight Weather Analysis Made Easy, by Find-it Fast Books, website 155
156 The Precautionary Statement section: Warns users to check the AIRMET Sierra for IFR and/or mountain obscuration. Describes the hazards associated with all thunderstorms. Reminds users that all altitudes are MSL, unless noted as AGL or CIG (ceiling) It would be easy to draw the conclusion that no IFR conditions are forecast by examining only the Area Forecast. Always remember that the Area Forecast discusses VFR CLOUDS AND WEATHER ONLY! Coverages of Thunderstorms (if forecast) include: ISOL (isolated) = single cells no percentage WDLY SCT (widely scattered) = less than 25% SCT or AREAS (scattered or areas) = 25% to 54% NMRS (numerous) = 55% or more WDSPRD (widespread) = 55% or more Always compare field elevation of airports with MSL cloud bases to estimate AGL cloud bases when reviewing the Area Forecast. 156
157 AREA FORECAST (FA) Header Precautionary Statement Synopsis VFR Clouds and Weather Section Reference: Pages 40, 41 - Preflight Weather Analysis Made Easy, by Find-it Fast Books, website 157
158 The Synopsis section: Provides a brief summary of the location and movement of fronts, pressure systems and circulation patterns for an 18 hour period. References to low ceilings, reduced visibility and/or strong winds may be included. The Synopsis applies to the pertinent weather within the Area Forecast region of responsibility. 158
159 AREA FORECAST (FA) Header Precautionary Statement Synopsis VFR Clouds and Weather Section Reference: Pages 40, 41 - Preflight Weather Analysis Made Easy, by Find-it Fast Books, website 159
160 The VFR CLOUDS and WX section: Contains a 12 hour specific forecast, followed by a 6 hour categorical outlook. Is broken down into geographical areas, and/or states. Describes clouds and weather affecting VFR flight operations, including precipitation, thunderstorms, and sustained surface winds 20 Knots or greater. The Area Forecast also includes visibility when the forecast to visibility is between 3 and 6 Statute Miles and/or obstructions to visibility. 160
161 AREA FORECAST (FA) Header Precautionary Statement Synopsis VFR Clouds and Weather Section Reference: Pages 40, 41 - Preflight Weather Analysis Made Easy, by Find-it Fast Books, website 161
162 The VFR CLOUDS and WX section, 6 hour categorical outlook uses the weather categories of: VFR: More accurately, VMC (visual meteorological conditions): Visibility > 5 miles AND ceiling > 3000 ft. MVFR: Marginal VFR: Visibility 3-5 miles OR ceiling feet. IFR: More accurately, IMC (instrument meteorological conditions): Visibility 1-3 miles OR ceiling ft. LIFR: Low IFR: Visibility < 1 mile OR ceiling <500 feet. WND: WND in the categorical outlook means the winds during that period is forecast to be at least 20 knots or stronger. 162
163 ENROUTE FORECAST Using the TAFs TAF Coverage = 5 SM Can Supplement Area Forecast May Confirm Area Forecast May Contradict Area Forecast TAF Cloud Bases AGL Area Forecast Cloud Bases MSL 163
164 If you prefer using the TAFs as your enroute forecast tool, keep in mind that the TAFs forecast weather is within a localized area of the forecast station. TAFs may serve as a supplement to the Area Forecast, and in some cases may provide a more accurate appraisal of forecast weather. Using multiple resources can, however, give contradicting forecast data. And, keep in mind that TAF cloud bases are forecast as AGL whereas Area Forecast cloud bases are MSL unless otherwise noted as AGL or CIG. 164
165 TAF What s the Forecast at My Destination Airport TAF KOKC Z 0512/ KT 5SM BR BKN030 TEMPO 0513/ /2SM BR FM KT P6SM SKC BECMG 0522/ G20KT 4SM SHRA OVC020 PROB /0606 2SM TSRA OVC008CB BECMG 0606/ KT P6SM NSW SCT040 Plus or Minus 2 Hours of ETA Compare With METARs Reference: Page 42 Preflight Weather Analysis Made Easy by Find-it Fast Books, website 165
166 Examine the TAF for your destination airport for a time frame of plus or minus 2 hours of your estimated time of arrival (ETA). Compare the current weather at your destination with the forecast for the same time period (Think of this as an aftercast). Does the current weather and the past forecast period agree? If not, be suspicious of the forecast if the current weather is worse than the forecast indicated it would be. (Review the TAFs discussed on the earlier slides, if necessary.) 166
167 TAF Destination Airport Reasons Nearby TAFs May Differ: Elevation Differences Fog Prone Areas Bordering Forecast Areas Reference: Page 42 Preflight Weather Analysis Made Easy by Find-it Fast Books, website 167
168 You may notice, in some situations, where neighboring airports in close proximity to one another have very different TAFs. This may be due to a significant difference in airport elevation, or a local weather causer, such as a fogprone river valley. Another explanation may be that the airports border separate National Weather Service Forecast Office areas of responsibility where different forecasters may issue dissimilar forecasts. 168
169 TAF Destination Airport If No TAF Issuance: Examine Area Forecast Area Forecast Cloud Bases MSL Note Airport Field Elevation to Determine AGL Cloud Bases Examine Neighboring TAFs Reference: Page 42 Preflight Weather Analysis Made Easy by Find-it Fast Books, website 169
170 If your destination airport does not issue a TAF, examine the Area Forecast for a general idea of what to expect. Keep in mind that Area Forecast VFR cloud bases are forecast in MSL, unless otherwise stated as AGL or a ceiling (CIG). You must know the field elevation of your destination airport to estimate likely cloud bases upon arrival. Also examine the nearby TAFs to compare their forecast cloud bases and visibilities with the Area Forecast. Comparing TAFs might not be all that helpful in the more remote areas of the country, however, where distances between TAF locations are too far apart to be helpful. 170
171 WINDS ALOFT FORECAST (FB) What Are the Winds Aloft? Reference: Page 44 Preflight Weather Analysis Made Easy by Find-it Fast Books, website 171
KEY TO DECODING THE U.S. METAR OBSERVATION REPORT
KEY TO DECODING THE U.S. METAR OBSERVATION REPORT Example METAR Report METAR KABC 121755Z AUTO 21016G24KT 180V240 1SM R11/P6000FT -RA BR BKN015 0VC025 06/04 A2990 RMK A02 PK WND 20032/25 WSHFT 1715 VIS
More informationTAF Decoder Courtesy of the Aviation Weather Center
TAF Decoder Courtesy of the Aviation Weather Center A Terminal Aerodrome Forecast (TAF) is a concise statement of the expected meteorological conditions at an airport during a specified period (usually
More informationMeteorology METARs. References: FTGU pages AWWS:
Meteorology 5.09 METARs References: FTGU pages 160-163 AWWS: www.flightplanning.navcanada.ca 5.09 METARs MTPs: Weather Observing Stations METARs Weather Observing Stations Weather observation are taken
More informationMeteorology METARs Weather Observing Stations. MTPs: 5.09 METARs References: FTGU pages AWWS:
Meteorology 5.09 References: FTGU pages 160-163 AWWS: www.flightplanning.navcanada.ca MTPs: Weather Observing Stations 5.09 Weather Observing Stations Weather observation are taken every hour at selected
More informationTAF CCCC YYGGggZ YYHHHH dddff(f)gffkt VVVVSM [ww NNNhhh] [Wshhh/dddffKT] [TTTTT xxxx] repeated as needed
Encoding TAFs Terminal Aerodome Forecast (TAF) Terminal forecasts for the world follow an internationally accepted format. The TAFs are issued four times daily for 24 hour periods beginning at 00Z, 06Z,
More informationAviation Weather Reports
Aviation Weather Reports Aviation Weather Reports METAR: hourly weather report (issued on the hour every hour) SPECI: special weather observations issued at times other than on the hour, as a result of
More informationAerodrome Forecast (TAF)
AVIATION WEATHER PRODUCTS () Bureau of Meteorology Aviation Weather Services A is a coded statement of meteorological conditions expected at an and within a radius of five nautical miles of the reference
More informationCHAPTER 9 - SPECIAL OBSERVATIONS
CHAPTER 9 - AL OBSERVATIONS 9.1 Introduction This chapter explains the criteria for taking special observations (). 9.2 Special Observations s are taken whenever mandatory criteria are met, and at the
More informationTERMINAL AERODROME FORECAST
1. Introduction TERMINAL AERODROME FORECAST Basically, a Terminal Aerodrome Forecast (or Terminal Area Forecast, TAF) is a message with a defined format with the objective to report a weather forecast
More informationROYAL CANADIAN AIR CADETS PROFICIENCY LEVEL FOUR INSTRUCTIONAL GUIDE SECTION 5 EO C ANALYZE WEATHER INFORMATION PREPARATION
ROYAL CANADIAN AIR CADETS PROFICIENCY LEVEL FOUR INSTRUCTIONAL GUIDE SECTION 5 EO C436.03 ANALYZE WEATHER INFORMATION Total Time: 90 min PREPARATION PRE-LESSON INSTRUCTIONS Resources needed for the delivery
More informationAerodrome Reports and Forecasts
Aerodrome Reports and Forecasts A Users Handbook to the Codes WMO-No. 782 Aerodrome Reports and Forecasts A Users Handbook to the Codes WMO-No. 782 Fifth edition November 2008 WMO-No. 782 World Meteorological
More informationSTUDY UNIT SEVENTEEN GRAPHICAL AIRMAN S METEOROLOGICAL ADVISORY (G-AIRMET)
STUDY UNIT SEVENTEEN GRAPHICAL AIRMAN S METEOROLOGICAL ADVISORY (G-AIRMET) 341 (10 pages of outline) 17.1 Product Description....................................................... 341 17.2 Issuance...............................................................
More informationMETEOROLOGY PANEL (METP) WORKING GROUP- METEOROLOGICAL OPERATION GROUP (MOG) FIRST MEETING
8 28/7/15 METEOROLOGY PANEL (METP) WORKING GROUP- METEOROLOGICAL OPERATION GROUP (MOG) FIRST MEETING Gatwick, United Kingdom, 08 to 11 September 2015 Agenda Item 3: Matters relating to SADIS 3.3: Operations
More informationTHE METAR & TAF QUICK REFERENCE MANUAL. ebook Series Version 1.3. Copyright 2012 Find-it Fast Books
THE METAR & TAF QUICK REFERENCE MANUAL ebook Series Version 1.3 Copyright 2012 Find-it Fast Books No part of this ebook, or in its entirety, may be reproduced or retransmitted by any electronic or mechanical
More informationIssue of SIGMET/AIRMET warning
Issue of SIGMET/AIRMET warning 1 Presentation Objectives After this presentation session you will be able to: Warn for Hazardous weather phenomena using the correct ICAO coding with regards to SIGMET/AIRMET
More informationAir Traffic Control Weather Certification
3 d Weather Squadron Air Traffic Control Weather Certification Mr B.J. Ortner, 3 WS/DOV Weather Forecaster Current as of: 8 June 2017 Overview Requirements/References RGAAF (KGRK) Observations HAAF (KHLR)
More informationNational Transportation Safety Board Office of Aviation Safety Washington, D.C December 10, 2012 WEATHER STUDY DCA13RA025
A. ACCIDENT National Transportation Safety Board Office of Aviation Safety Washington, D.C. 20594-2000 December 10, 2012 WEATHER STUDY DCA13RA025 Location: Monterrey, Mexico Date: December 9, 2012 Time:
More informationMETEOROLOGICAL AIRPORT REPORT
1. Introduction 1.1. METAR IVAO TM Training Department Headquarters METEOROLOGICAL AIRPORT REPORT A METAR (Meteorological Airport Report) is a meteorological observation report (not a prediction) dedicated
More informationThe Informed Scheduler
The Informed Scheduler Thursday, January 21, 2016 1:00 p.m. 2:30 p.m. PRESENTED BY: Vinton Brown, Flight Safety International James M. Kohler, Chief Pilot, DuPont Andrew M. Bourland, CAM, Chief Pilot,
More informationAnswer Key. Page 1 of 5
Answer Key Name: Score: [1] When telephoning a weather briefing facility for preflight weather information, pilots should state A. whether they intend to fly VFR only. B. the full name and address of the
More informationChapter 12 Weather Charts & Briefings: PIREPS, Progs & METARS
Chapter 12 Weather Charts & Briefings: PIREPS, Progs & METARS The Telephone Briefing 1. [12-4/1/9] When telephoning a weather briefing facility for preflight weather information, pilots should A. identify
More informationWeather Charts And Briefings
Page M1 Chapter Thirteen Weather Charts And Briefings PIREPS, Progs & METARS The Telephone Briefing 1. [M4/1/9] When telephoning a weather briefing facility for preflight weather information, pilots should
More informationERTH 465 Fall Laboratory Exercise 5. Surface Weather Observations (METARS) and Frontal Analysis (300 pts)
ERTH 465 Fall 2017 Laboratory Exercise 5 Surface Weather Observations (METARS) and Frontal Analysis (300 pts) Insert in ringed-three hole binder. Point deductions for sloppy or late work. Due date: Tuesday
More informationAVIATION WEATHER STUDENT GUIDE
NAVAL AIR TRAINING COMMAND NAS CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS CNATRA P-770 (New 07-15) AVIATION WEATHER STUDENT GUIDE PRIMARY 2015 AVIATION WEATHER STUDENT GUIDE PRIMARY P-770 iii THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT
More informationEffective: SPECI ALERTING
AUSTRALIA AERONAUTICAL INFORMATION SERVICE AIRSERVICES AUSTRALIA GPO BOX 367, CANBERRA ACT 2601 Phone: 02 6268 4874 Email: aim.editorial@airservicesaustralia.com Effective: AERONAUTICAL INFORMATION CIRCULAR
More informationEarth and Atmospheric Sciences. Sky condition. Prof. J. Haase EAS535 EAS535
Sky condition Prof. J. Haase Federal Meteorological Handbook http://www.ofcm.gov/fmh-1/fmh1.htm Estimating cloud height Report cloud levels to nearest 100 feet below 5000 feet (in practice, human observers
More informationDecoding Observations and Terminal Aerodrome Forecasts. Weather Observer/Forecaster O-LD 18 th Weather Squadron Ft Polk, LA
Decoding Observations and Terminal Aerodrome Forecasts Weather Observer/Forecaster O-LD 18 th Weather Squadron Ft Polk, LA Part I. Decoding Observations What types of data goes into a weather observation?
More informationAtmospheric Pressure. Pressure Altimeter. Pressure Altimeter
Atmospheric Pressure The : An instrument to measure altitude based on an aneroid barometer. It can be adjusted for changes in atmospheric pressure 1 2 Altimeter Setting Is not SLP, but close to it. If
More information777 Neptune Groundschool Weather reporting & forecasts
777 Neptune Groundschool 2018 Weather reporting & forecasts Weather Reporting Weather Forecast is a prediction of what the weather conditions will be in the future Weather Report tells the reader of what
More informationSection 7: Hazard Avoidance
7.1 In-Flight Hazard Awareness Section 7: Hazard Avoidance As technology improves, pilots have more and more real-time information within reach in all phases of flight. Terrain proximity, real-time weather
More information2. A mountain breeze (katabatic wind) blows : DOWN THE SLOPE DURING THE NIGHT
MODEL E-EXAM (ATPL) NO.3 1. Among the ten groups of clouds, the following two are mentioned specifically in MET-reports and forecasts intended for aviation: CUMULONIMBUS AND TOWERING CUMULUS 2. A mountain
More informationAERODROME METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATION AND FORECAST STUDY GROUP (AMOFSG)
AMOFSG/9-SN No. 31 22/8/11 AERODROME METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATION AND FORECAST STUDY GROUP (AMOFSG) NINTH MEETING Montréal, 26 to 30 September 2011 Agenda Item 5: Observing and forecasting at the aerodrome
More informationQLD-S NSW-E NSW-W VIC TAS. A HEADER giving details of the time of issue and the associated validity period.
FLIGHT FORECASTS Flight Forecasts are issued on request for flights for which GAFs are not available. They are subject to the requirements of AIP GEN 3.5 para 3.1 and AIP GEN 3.5 para 10.3. Flight forecasts
More informationTHUNDERSTORMS-RISK FACTORS IN AVIATION. CASE STUDY: AREA OF RESPONSABILITY OF THE BUCHAREST- OTOPENI AERODROME ON
RISCURI ŞI CATASTROFE, NR. XIV, VOL. 17, NR.2/2015 THUNDERSTORMS-RISK FACTORS IN AVIATION. CASE STUDY: AREA OF RESPONSABILITY OF THE BUCHAREST- OTOPENI AERODROME ON 30.06.2009 C. L. ŞCHIOPU 1, NICOLETA
More informationNational Climatic Data Center DATA DOCUMENTATION FOR. DATA SET 3280 (DSI-3280) Surface Airways Hourly. May 4, 2005
National Climatic Data Center DATA DOCUMENTATION FOR DATA SET 3280 (DSI-3280) Surface Airways Hourly May 4, 2005 National Climatic Data Center 151 Patton Ave. Asheville, NC 28801-5001 USA Table of Contents
More informationTAIWIN: Operational Concept Review
TAIWIN: Operational Concept Review S.D. Green November 19, 2015 Overview Changes to FAR Parts 25 and 33 including FAR 25.1420 and Appendix O, will allow limited icing certification for transport category
More informationESCI 241 Meteorology Lesson 9 Clouds and Fog
References and Reading: MT Chapter 7 FORMATION OF CLOUDS ESCI 241 Meteorology Lesson 9 Clouds and Fog When air becomes saturated with water vapor, any excess water vapor condenses to form clouds The air
More informationIssue of SIGMET/AIRMET warning part II
Issue of SIGMET/AIRMET warning part II 1 SIGMET SIGMET is warning information and hence it is of highest priority amongst other types of meteorological information provided to the aviation users. This
More informationAerodrome Weather Observer
Aerodrome Weather Observer METARAWS/SPECIAWS Reporting and Recording Bureau of Meteorology Training Centre Commonwealth of Australia 2016 This work is copyright. Apart from any use as permitted under the
More informationAERODROME METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATION AND FORECAST STUDY GROUP (AMOFSG)
AMOFSG/9-SN No. 32 22/8/11 AERODROME METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATION AND FORECAST STUDY GROUP (AMOFSG) NINTH MEETING Montréal, 26 to 30 September 2011 Agenda Item 5: Observing and forecasting at the aerodrome
More informationAccuracy in Predicting GDPs and Airport Delays from Weather Forecast Data
Accuracy in Predicting GDPs and Airport Delays from Weather Forecast Data David Smith Center for Air Transportation Systems Research George Mason University Fairfax, VA September 6, 2007 CENTER FOR AIR
More informationSevere Icing Severe or Extreme Turbulence Dust storms and/or sand storms lowering visibilities to less than three (3) miles Volcanic Ash
SIGMETs A SIGMET advises of weather, other than convective activity, that is potentially hazardous to all aircraft. SIGMETs are issued (for the lower 48 states and adjacent coastal waters) for the following
More informationIII.B. Weather Information
III.B. Weather Information References: AC 00-6; AC 00-45; FAA-H-8083-25 Objectives Key Elements Elements Schedule Equipment IP s Actions SP s Actions Completion Standards The student should develop knowledge
More informationMetar And Taf Decoding
Metar And Taf Decoding 1 / 6 2 / 6 3 / 6 Metar And Taf Decoding examples: kmem 230853z auto 18014g18kt 10sm clr 16/m02 a3008 rmk ao2 slp117 t01561022 tsno $ klax 161550z cor 11004kt 2 1/2sm hz bkn011 bkn015
More informationUse of lightning data to improve observations for aeronautical activities
Use of lightning data to improve observations for aeronautical activities Françoise Honoré Jean-Marc Yvagnes Patrick Thomas Météo_France Toulouse France I Introduction Aeronautical activities are very
More informationAppendix X for CAP 437 Offshore Helicopter Landing Areas Guidance on Standards.
Appendix X for CAP 437 Offshore Helicopter Landing Areas Guidance on Standards. Additional Guidance relating to the provision of Meteorological Information from Offshore Installations 1. Introduction This
More informationGlobal Surface Archives Documentation
Global Surface Archives Documentation 1 July 2013 PO BOX 450211 GARLAND TX 75045 www.weathergraphics.com Global Surface Archives is a dataset containing hourly and special observations from official observation
More informationGRAPHICAL AREA FORECASTS (GAF) feet. Flight Information Region boundary QLD-S NSW-E VIC TAS
GRAPHICAL AREA FORECASTS (GAF) Unlike at TAF, a Graphical Area Forecasts (GAFs) does not describe conditions expected at a particular location, it refers to a defined area and is intended for use in planning
More informationGleim Private Pilot FAA Knowledge Test 2015 Edition, 1st Printing Updates July 2015
Page 1 of 6 Gleim Private Pilot FAA Knowledge Test 2015 Edition, 1st Printing Updates July 2015 NOTE: Deleted text is displayed with a line through it. New text is shown with a blue background. If you
More informationGEN 3.5 METEOROLOGICAL SERVICES
AIP GEN 3.5-1 GEN 3.5 METEOROLOGICAL SERVICES 1. RESPONSIBLE SERVICE The meteorological services for civil aviation at Jordan are provided by the Jordanian Meteorological Department. Postal Address: Director
More information9999= letters "blocks".
METAR Learning Goals METAR/TAF Weather Report HECA 290925Z 04009KT 010V070 7000 DZRA FEW006 SCT010 BKN022 19/12 Q1008 BECMG 9999= What what what what?????? Wow, I don't understan nd this. All I see is
More informationGuidance on Aeronautical Meteorological Observer Competency Standards
Guidance on Aeronautical Meteorological Observer Competency Standards The following guidance is supplementary to the AMP competency Standards endorsed by Cg-16 in Geneva in May 2011. Format of the Descriptions
More informationdata manipulation (2)
Information Science in Action Week 06 data manipulation (2) College of Information Science and Engineering Ritsumeikan University last week: data manipulation (1) the evolution of protocols push vs. pull
More informationMechanical Turbulence Wind forms eddies as it blows around hanger, stands of trees or other obstructions
Turbulence Low-level Turbulence below 15,000 feet consists of Mechanical Turbulence Convective Turbulence Frontal Turbulence Wake Turbulence Mechanical Turbulence Wind forms eddies as it blows around hanger,
More informationThe abrupt end of the Persistent Subtropical Ridge of the autumn of 2016
The abrupt end of the Persistent Subtropical Ridge of the autumn of 2016 1. Introduction by Richard H. Grumm National Weather Service State College, PA 16803 Contributions by Elyse Hagner National Weather
More informationMET 3502 Synoptic Meteorology. Lecture 5: Surface Weather Elements
MET 3502 Synoptic Meteorology Lecture 5: Surface Weather Elements Surface Weather Elements Not observations of the surface, but Observations made by an observer (or instrument) at the surface Example:
More informationERTH 465 Fall Laboratory Exercise 5. Surface Weather Observations (METARS) and Frontal Analysis (300 pts)
ERTH 465 Fall 2017 Laboratory Exercise 5 Surface Weather Observations (METARS) and Frontal Analysis (300 pts) Insert in ringed-three hole binder. Point deductions for sloppy or late work. Due date: Tuesday
More informationFlight Dispatcher Aviation Meteorology Required Knowledge
Flight Dispatcher Aviation Meteorology Required Knowledge 3.1 THE EARTH'S ATMOSPHERE 1 Properties 2 Vertical Structure 3 ICAO Standard Atmosphere 3.2 ATMOSPHERIC PRESSURE 1 Pressure Measurements 2 Station
More informationSubject No 8 - PPL Meteorology
Subject No 8 - PPL Meteorology Notes: This syllabus is principally based on the meteorology as applicable to flying a single piston-engine General Aviation type aeroplane or helicopter, within New Zealand
More informationJuly 13, 2017 Session #1 In Lieu of the Surface Observation Including EWINS Authority, RTMA, Web Cams, and Remote Observation Systems
July 13, 2017 Session #1 In Lieu of the Surface Observation Including EWINS Authority, RTMA, Web Cams, and Remote Observation Systems Part 121 Operator Perspective: Equivalent Level of Safety Using Remote
More informationWork Package 1: Final Project Report Appendix E: The METAR data
Work Package 1: Final Project Report Appendix E: The METAR data First Assessment of the operational Limitations, Benefits & Applicability for a List of package I AS applications FALBALA Project Drafted
More informationSAMPLE ASSESSMENT TASKS AVIATION ATAR YEAR 12
SAMPLE ASSESSMENT TASKS AVIATION ATAR YEAR 12 Copyright School Curriculum and Standards Authority, 2015 This document apart from any third party copyright material contained in it may be freely copied,
More informationAERODROME METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATION AND FORECAST STUDY GROUP (AMOFSG)
24/4/13 AERODROME METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATION AND FORECAST STUDY GROUP (AMOFSG) TENTH MEETING Montréal, 17 to 19 June 2013 Agenda Item 6: Forecasting at the aerodrome and in the terminal area and ATIS requirements
More informationMeteorology. Review Extreme Weather a. cold front. b. warm front. What type of weather is associated with a:
Meteorology 5.08 Extreme Weather References: FTGU pages 132, 144, 145, 148-155 Air Command Weather Manual Chapters 9 and 15 Review What type of weather is associated with a: a. cold front b. warm front
More informationASOS. A little background. Automated Surface Observing System
S A F E T Y A D V I S O R Technology No. 2 ASOS Automated Surface Observing System A little background Designing automated equipment to exactly match human observations is impossible, but after years of
More informationExplanation and decode for code figures used in the Wokingham 0900 and 1500 GMT observations
Appendix 2. Explanation and decode for code figures used in the Wokingham 0900 and 1500 GMT observations VV : Visibility. Code figures 00 to 50 are in km and tenths e.g. 01 = 0.1 km = 100 m, 33 = 3.3 km,
More informationWEATHER THEORY. Weather Theory Page 100 Aviation Seminars. Measurement Of Temperature, Pressure And Moisture. Stability (Cont)
Weather Theory Page 100 WEATHER THEORY Measurement Of Temperature, Pressure And Moisture The primary cause of all changes in the earth s weather is variation of solar energy received by the Earth s regions..
More informationMACIS documentation. a. Temporal resolution: For each month and the hole year
MACIS documentation Wind: 1. Relative frequency of mean wind speed b. Treshold values: mean wind speed greater, greater equal, less, less equal 3, 5, 10, 12, 15 20, 22, 25 kt 2. Relative frequency of gusts
More informationTerminal aerodrome forecast verification in Austro Control using time windows and ranges of forecast conditions
METEOROLOGICAL APPLICATIONS Meteorol. Appl. 15: 113 123 (2008) Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com).62 Terminal aerodrome forecast verification in Austro Control using time
More informationSyllabus details and associated Learning Objectives (A) and EIR METEOROLOGY
Syllabus details associated Learning Objectives 050 00 00 00 METEOROLOGY 050 01 00 00 THE ATMOSPHERE 050 01 02 00 Air temperature 050 01 02 04 Lapse rates LO Describe qualitatively quantitatively the temperature
More information540 THE UTILIZATION OF CURRENT FORECAST PRODUCTS IN A PROBABILISTIC AIRPORT CAPACITY MODEL
540 THE UTILIZATION OF CURRENT FORECAST PRODUCTS IN A PROBABILISTIC AIRPORT CAPACITY MODEL Jonathan Cunningham*, Lara Cook, and Chris Provan Mosaic ATM, Inc., Leesburg, VA 1. INTRODUCTION According to
More informationThe enduring fog and low cloud episode of 5-10 December 2015: Big Bubble Fog Trouble
1. Overview The enduring fog and low cloud episode of 5-10 December 2015: Big Bubble Fog Trouble By Richard H. Grumm National Weather Service State College, PA An enduring low cloud and fog episode affected
More informationNational Maritime Center
National Maritime Center Providing Credentials to Mariners (Sample Examination) Page 1 of 5 Choose the best answer to the following Multiple Choice Questions. 1. Fog is formed when which condition exists?
More informationAMDAR Forecast Applications. Richard Mamrosh NWS Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA
AMDAR Forecast Applications Richard Mamrosh NWS Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA AMDAR has many applications Aviation Low level wind shear Ceilings and visibilities Icing and turbulence Winter Storms Precipitation
More informationMETEOROLOGICAL SERVICES
AIP New Zealand GEN 3.5-1 GEN 3.5 METEOROLOGICAL SERVICES 1 RESPONSIBLE SERVICE 1.1 Civil Aviation Authority 1.1.1 The Civil Aviation Authority is the meteorological authority for New Zealand and is responsible
More informationLAPL(A)/PPL(A) question bank FCL.215, FCL.120 Rev METEOROLOGY 050
METEOROLOGY 050 1 Below the tropopause, the ICAO Standard Atmosphere (ISA) assumes? A mean sea level pressure of 1013.25 hpa together with a mean sea level temperature of 15 C, decreasing by 1.98 C per
More informationAWOS Level Descriptions
AWOS Level Descriptions AWOS System Configurations. The AWOS is a modular system utilizing a central processor which may receive input from several sensors. Eight standard groups of sensors are defined
More informationInformation Note on the Webpage for Significant Convection Monitoring and Forecast
Information Note on the Webpage for Significant Convection Monitoring and Forecast The webpage displays both the real-time products for monitoring of significant convection and forecast products for significant
More informationImplementation Guidance of Aeronautical Meteorological Observer Competency Standards
Implementation Guidance of Aeronautical Meteorological Observer Competency Standards The following guidance is supplementary to the AMP competency Standards endorsed by Cg-16 in Geneva in May 2011. Please
More informationTraffic and Weather. Soaring Safety Foundation. Tom Johnson CFIG
Traffic and Weather Soaring Safety Foundation Tom Johnson CFIG Weather Contents Weather Gathering Sources Weather Acquisition Enroute Weather Analysis Weather Hazards Weather in the Landing Pattern Basic
More informationCHAPTER THREE Mechanics of Frontal Systems
Mechanics of Frontal Systems 300. INTRODUCTION The purpose of this chapter is to introduce the student to various frontal systems, including their formation, flight conditions, and associated weather patterns,
More informationPLOTTED DATA AROUND STATION CIRCLE ON SURFACE ANALYSIS CHART TYPE OF HIGH CLOUD TYPE OF WIND SPEED MIDDLE CLOUD SEA-LEVEL PRESSURE
WIND SPEED WIND DIRECTION TYPE OF HIGH CLOUD TYPE OF MIDDLE CLOUD SEA-LEVEL PRESSURE TOTAL AMOUNT OF SKY COVERED BY CLOUDS TEMPERATURE F VISIBILITY PRESENT WEATHER DEW POINT F TYPE OF LOW CLOUD 31 2 30
More informationGRAPHICAL NZ SIGWX Graphical New Zealand Significant Weather Chart
GRAPHICAL NZ SIGWX Graphical New Zealand Significant Weather Chart USER GUIDE GRAPHICAL NZ SIGWX (Graphical New Zealand Significant Weather Chart) 1. Introduction 1.1 The GNZSIGWX Chart provides forecast
More informationP10.3 HOMOGENEITY PROPERTIES OF RUNWAY VISIBILITY IN FOG AT CHICAGO O HARE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (ORD)
P10.3 HOMOGENEITY PROPERTIES OF RUNWAY VISIBILITY IN FOG AT CHICAGO O HARE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (ORD) Thomas A. Seliga 1, David A. Hazen 2 and Stephen Burnley 3 1. Volpe National Transportation Systems
More informationAVIATION WEATHER SERVICES GUIDE
AVIATION WEATHER SERVICES GUIDE For Aviation Users Contents Page 1 Page 2 Revised: May 2017 Contents Introduction 1 Aviation Weather Services 2 Pilot Briefing Service (PBS)... 2 Aviation Weather Web Site
More informationMost types of clouds are found in the troposphere, and almost all weather occurs within this
Meteorology Most types of clouds are found in the troposphere, and almost all weather occurs within this layer. Air pressure and the density of the air also decrease with altitude. That's why the cabins
More information2012 National SAFECON SCAN Test
Today is Friday, November 18, 2011. Your school's flight team has recently qualified for the National SAFECON. You have a couple days off from school and decide to return to your hometown of Rhinelander,
More informationENSTROM 480B OPERATOR S MANUAL AND FAA APPROVED ROTORCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL SUPPLEMENT GARMIN GDL 69AH XM WX SATELLITE WEATHER/RADIO RECEIVER
ENSTROM 480B OPERATOR S MANUAL AND FAA APPROVED ROTORCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL SUPPLEMENT GARMIN GDL 69AH XM WX SATELLITE WEATHER/RADIO RECEIVER * * * * * REPORT NO. 28-AC-062 HELICOPTER SERIAL NO. HELICOPTER
More informationHow to issue SIGMET. SIGMET Seminar for Asia/Pacific Region Bangkok, Thailand, July 2007
How to issue SIGMET SIGMET Seminar for Asia/Pacific Region Bangkok, Thailand, 11-13 July 2007 Shikembaru, Toru 志堅原透 Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) 日本気象庁 Japan Meteorological Agency 1 Contents of lecture
More informationMETEOROLOGY. 1 The average height of the tropopause at 50 N is about A 14 km B 16 km C 11 km D 8 km
1 The average height of the tropopause at 50 N is about A 14 km B 16 km C 11 km D 8 km 2 In the lower part of the stratosphere the temperature A is almost constant B decreases with altitude C increases
More informationWMO Aeronautical Meteorology Scientific Conference 2017
Session 2 Integration, use cases, fitness for purpose and service delivery 2.2 Terminal Area and Impact-based forecast Data-driven influence model of weather condition in airport operational performance
More informationCOMPLIANCE WITH THIS PUBLICATION IS MANDATORY
BY ORDER OF THE SECRETARY OF THE AIR FORCE AIR FORCE MANUAL 15-124 28 FEBRUARY 2013 Incorporating Through Change 2, 26 JULY 2016 Weather METEOROLOGICAL CODES COMPLIANCE WITH THIS PUBLICATION IS MANDATORY
More informationIntroduction to SIGMET. 28 June 2016 Japan Meteorological Agency
Introduction to SIGMET 28 June 2016 Japan Meteorological Agency SIGMET Definition SIGMET information Information issued by a meteorological watch office concerning the occurrence or expected occurrence
More informationWeather Technology in the Cockpit (WTIC) Shortfall Analysis of Weather Information in Remote Airspace Friends and Partners of Aviation Weather Summer
Weather Technology in the Cockpit (WTIC) Shortfall Analysis of Weather Information in Remote Airspace Friends and Partners of Aviation Weather Summer Meeting Tim Myers Metron Aviation August 26, 2015 2
More informationRecap of the NTSB PIREP Forum: Optimizing Safety Benefits for Pilots, ATC, and Meteorologists. Paul Suffern NTSB Meteorologist
Recap of the NTSB PIREP Forum: Optimizing Safety Benefits for Pilots, ATC, and Meteorologists Paul Suffern NTSB Meteorologist 1 2 Wx Accident Trend 3 Preflight Planning TAF KRDU 162340Z 1700/1724 28003KT
More informationNJ SURVEYORS CONFERENCE
NJ SURVEYORS CONFERENCE PART 107 Ground School TODAY S AGENDA Regulations National Airspace System Operations Weather Loading and Performance 1 REGULATIONS Remote Pilot Certifications and Privileges When
More informationTAF and TREND Verification
TAF and TREND Verification Guenter Mahringer and Horst Frey, Austro Control, Aviation MET Service Linz, A-4063 Hoersching, Austria. guenter.mahringer@austrocontrol.at The TAF Verification Concept A TAF
More informationCMO Terminal Aerodrome Forecast (TAF) Verification Programme (CMOTafV)
CMO Terminal Aerodrome Forecast (TAF) Verification Programme (CMOTafV) Kathy-Ann Caesar Meteorologist Caribbean Meteorological Council - 47 St. Vincent, 2007 CMOTafV TAF Verification Programme Project:
More informationAirport Meteorology Analysis
Airport Meteorology Analysis Alex Alshtein Kurt Etterer October 2014 Presented at ICAO Business Class 2014 ICAO, Montreal, Canada Approved for Public Release: 14-3466. Distribution Unlimited. October 2014
More informationAviation Weather For Pilots. Aviation Weather Decoded
Aviation Weather For Pilots Aviation Weather Decoded Presented by Mike Cetinich About Your Instructor n B.S. Meteorology San Jose State University n Flight Training n Career at Jeppesen (30+ years) Aviation
More information