Quick Facts
- Type
- Information Broadcast
- Definition
- A continuous broadcast of recorded aeronautical information at busy airports,...
- Used By
- Pilots, ATC
Definition#
ATIS stands for Automatic Terminal Information Service. It is a continuous broadcast of recorded non-control information at airports with significant traffic. ATIS is available via dedicated radio frequencies and, increasingly, via data link (D-ATIS).
What ATIS Contains#
A typical ATIS broadcast includes:
- Information identifier (phonetic letter: Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, etc.)
- Time of observation (UTC)
- Current weather (wind, visibility, clouds, temperature, dewpoint, altimeter setting)
- Active runway(s) and approach type in use
- NOTAMs relevant to airport operations
- Special instructions (taxiway closures, construction, bird activity)
How It Works#
ATIS is updated whenever weather conditions change significantly or when operational information changes (e.g., runway change). Each update receives the next letter in the phonetic alphabet: Information Alpha becomes Information Bravo after the first update, and so on.
When contacting ATC, pilots report which ATIS information they have: "Approach, N12345 with Information Golf." This confirms the pilot has current information and reduces radio congestion.
D-ATIS#
Data Link ATIS (D-ATIS) provides the same information as voice ATIS but delivered as text via ACARS or other data link systems. D-ATIS reduces pilot workload — there's no need to listen to the entire voice broadcast, and the text can be reviewed at any time.
Why ATIS Matters#
ATIS allows ATC to spend less time repeating routine information and more time managing traffic. Pilots who tune in to ATIS before contacting approach or ground control are better prepared, leading to more efficient communications and safer operations.