METAR and TAF for flight dispatch: a practical study guide

A METAR reports observed aerodrome weather at a stated time. A TAF describes a forecast for a specified period. They answer different questions: what was observed and what is expected. Both should be read with their issue and validity times, units, amendments and any applicable operator guidance.

When studying an observation, identify the station, report time, wind, visibility, weather and cloud information. A low cloud base or reduced visibility may affect planning, but a single number does not establish whether an aircraft and crew can conduct an operation.

For a forecast, identify the period relevant to the planned operation and the changes within it. Compare the destination with suitable alternate options and look for a common weather system that could affect both. Record what is forecast, what remains uncertain and when to review it again.

The Aviation Weather Center publishes aviation weather information and API documentation. Dispatch Deck can retrieve selected read-only reports for study, but a missing report is not good weather and a public feed is not a complete operational briefing.

Practice exercise: compare a destination forecast and alternate forecast for the expected time of use, list the evidence you would need to verify, and explain who should receive an update. Confirm current rules, approved minima and source coverage before any real operation.