Quick Facts
- Type
- Weather Forecast
- Also Known As
- TAF
- Used By
- Pilots, Dispatchers
Definition#
TAF stands for Terminal Aerodrome Forecast. It is a concise, coded forecast of weather conditions expected within approximately 5 statute miles of an airport's reference point, typically covering 24 to 30 hours.
Why It Matters Operationally#
TAFs are essential for flight planning, fuel calculations, and alternate airport selection. Pilots and dispatchers use TAFs to anticipate ceiling, visibility, wind, and precipitation at departure and destination airports.
Format#
A TAF includes a validity period, expected winds, visibility, weather phenomena, and cloud layers, plus change groups (BECMG, TEMPO, FM, PROB) indicating forecast transitions.
Related Guides#
- How to Read a TAF
- How to Read a METAR
- Aviation Weather Explained — The Complete Operational Guide
- Flight Delays & Cancellations Explained