Mobile calls now reach Alaska briefer directly

This change addresses a problem that has plagued pilots who are cellphone users and who either live outside of Alaska or are residents who have an area code outside the state. While the national 1-800-WX-BRIEF works in Alaska, it directs calls to briefers based on the area code you are calling from. If you have a mobile number with an area code other than 907 (universal in Alaska), the call will be routed to the Leidos Flight Service station covering your “home” area code’s domain.

The FAA operates three round-the-clock flight service “hub” facilities in Alaska, located in Juneau, Kenai, and Fairbanks. In addition, the agency has 14 “satellite” stations scattered across different regions of the state, operating on a seasonal or part-time basis. Any time the satellite stations are closed, the three hub facilities take over phone and radio communications to maintain 24-hour service across a state one-fifth the size of the Lower 48.

This network of stations not only provides services to VFR pilots, but also relays IFR clearances and performs other functions vital to flying in a state where aviation is the key means of transportation. The individual hub facilities also each have unique toll-free and local numbers, which may be used to contact them directly.

When using 1-833-AK-BRIEF, you may select the hub station you wish to contact. The hub stations will still maintain their unique phone numbers, in addition to this new centralized number. The Letter to Airmen describing this change and providing the new number is posted online.