Pilot Foundations · Source-checked
Observations, forecasts and where to get them
Learning goals
- Distinguish observations from forecasts
- Use official NWS sources
Observations such as METARs tell you what is happening now at a point. Forecasts such as TAFs and area products describe what is expected. Advisories highlight hazards such as icing, turbulence and convection.
Use official sources — the Aviation Weather Center at aviationweather.gov is operated by the National Weather Service. The FAA's Aviation Weather Handbook explains how each product is built and what its limits are. Compare trends across several stations instead of trusting one report.
Assigned reading
Aviation Weather Handbook (FAA-H-8083-28B (listed 04/02/2026))
Aviation Weather Handbook — product and services chapters · Federal Aviation Administration · reviewed 2026-10-21
Self-check
Original practice questions for self-assessment only — not FAA test questions and not a certification.
Study preparation only. Not FAA-approved ground training, no endorsement, logbook or flight-time credit, and no guaranteed test result. Always follow your instructor and the approved AFM/POH for your aircraft.