AWH 3-4

Chapter 3, Overview of Aviation Weather Information 3-4 conditions against the pilot’s experience and ratings. The aircraft’s equipment, capabilities, and limitations should also be considered. This advisory is not provided via the internet. • Synopsis. A brief statement describing the type, location, and movement of weather systems and/or air masses that might affect the proposed flight. • Current (Latest) Conditions. This portion of the briefing contains the current (latest reported or received) surface weather summarized from all available resources, including observations, PIREPs, and satellite and radar data along the route of flight. If the departure time is more than two hours away, current conditions will not be included in the briefing unless the pilot specifically requests the information. • En Route Forecast. Forecast en route conditions for the proposed route are summarized in logical order (i.e., departure/climb out, en route, and descent). Heights are above mean sea level (MSL), unless the contractions “AGL” or “CIG” are denoted, indicating that heights are above ground. • Destination Forecast. The destination forecast for the planned estimated time of arrival (ETA). Any significant changes within 1 hour before and after the planned arrival are included. • Winds and Temperatures Aloft. Forecast winds aloft will be provided in knots and tens of degrees and referenced to true north. The briefer will interpolate wind directions and speeds between levels and stations as necessary to provide expected conditions at planned altitudes. (Heights are MSL.) Temperature information will be provided on request. • Notice to Airmen (NOTAM), ATC Delays, and Other Information. Refer to the AIM Chapter 7, Section 1, Paragraph 7-1-5, Preflight Briefing, subparagraphs b8 through b10 for a complete description of this part of the briefing. Also refer to the AIM Chapter 5, Section 1, Paragraph 5-1- 3, Notice to Airmen System, for a complete description of all NOTAM types. 3.3.1.2 Abbreviated Briefing An abbreviated briefing is a shortened version of the standard briefing. It can be requested when a departure has been delayed or when specific weather information is needed to update a previous standard briefing. Pilots who prefer to contact Flight Service are encouraged to conduct a self-briefing prior to calling. Conducting a self-briefing before contacting Flight Service provides familiarity of weather conditions applicable to the route of flight and promotes a better understanding of weather information. When contacting Flight Service by phone, the FSS specialist will ask for the time and source of the previous briefing, so the specialist does not inadvertently omit the necessary weather information. 3.3.1.3 Outlook Briefing An outlook briefing may be requested when a planned departure is six or more hours away. It provides initial forecast information that is limited in scope due to the timeframe of the planned flight. This type of briefing is a good source of flight planning information that can influence decisions regarding route of flight, altitude, and ultimately the “go, no-go” decision. A follow-up standard or abbreviated briefing prior to departure is advisable, since an outlook briefing generally only contains information based on weather trends and existing weather in geographical areas at or near the departure airport. 3.3.2 Telephone 3.3.2.1 Flight Service For flights within the CONUS, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico, call 1-800-WX-BRIEF (1-800-992-7433). For flights in Alaska, call 1-833-AK-BRIEF (1-833-252-7433).