National Weather Service Training Center

Terminal Aerodrome Forecasts

Web Module WBT-002

Module Purpose and Structure

The purpose of this module to provide you with an introduction to terminal aerodrome forecast (TAF) procedures. It covers the formatting and scheduling of TAFs as described in National Weather Service Instruction (NWSI) 10-813. Numerous examples are provided to illustrate the appropriate code. This module has been updated to include changes associated with the 30 hour TAF.

This module is divided into 8 segments listed in the next section. Completion of these segments will provide you with a good introduction to TAF structure and requirements, and provide examples of how the NWS currently applies these concepts to daily operations.

Why are TAFs Important?

The terminal aerodrome forecast or TAF is the primary forecast of aviation related weather for specific airports. It is used by everyone from general aviation pilots to commercial carriers to anticipate weather conditions at take off and landing. TAF content can have a strong impact on fuel loads, the need for alternates, and other aspects of aviation operations. It is critically important that National Weather Service forecasters keep these impacts in mind when they prepare TAFs.

Module Segments

The segments shown below are all web based. Click the link to access each segment. Review the segment material and answer any review questions provided.

• Segment 1: Importance of Terminal Forecasts

  This segment describes impact of TAF content on aviation operations, particularly the impact on the costs involved to the aviation industry in dealing with low clouds and visibility.

• Segment 2: Scheduled Terminal forecasts

  This segment describes the content and format of the TAF as well as the frequency of issuance.

• Segment 3: Weather Groups

  This segment describes each weather group of the TAF.

• Segment 4:Forecast Change Indicator Groups

  This segment describes how to use FM, TEMPO and PROB30 groups.

• Segment 5: Unscheduled Terminal Forecasts

  Explains how to use Amended, Corrected and Delayed TAFs.

• Segment 6: Terminal Forecasts Amendments and "The Weather Watch"

  This segment explains when forecasts should be amended based on current or expected weather.

• Segment 7: Legal Liabilities in Forecasting

  This segment explains how to avoid legal complications.

• Segment 8: TAF Examples and Final Review Exercises

  This segment provides examples of TAFs for various weather situations and review exercises.

Appendices

These appendices provide additional information on items covered in the segments above. They are included here mainly for reference.