As of July 1, 2024, the Bahamas Customs & Excise Department has imposed substantial and egregious fees on pilots flying General Aviation aircraft on recreational flights. Pilots should be mindful of these new and additional fees before considering flying to the Bahamas. Read More
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PIREPs Made Easy

GO BEYOND THE TEXTBOOK WITH THIS SKYSPOTTER SAFETY SPOTLIGHT

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Pilot reports (PIREPs) are invaluable in the weather decision-making process. Not only do PIREPs provide pilots a clear snapshot of the actual weather aloft, but they also help air traffic control and improve weather forecasting products. For example, ATC uses PIREPs to re-route traffic and forecasters use them to validate weather reports and to issue, cancel, or change sigmets. So, you can see why we need your help to create more PIREPs!

Do you appreciate getting a PIREP but feel uneasy to provide one? Or are you unsure how to interpret a PIREP? Brush up on the basics so you don’t have to hold back; here’s how this spotlight will help.

You’ll review:

  • Elements of a PIREP
  • Route versus single-point PIREPs
  • How to estimate visibility, cloud height and coverage
  • Icing types and intensities
  • Turbulence types and intensities
  • Basic cloud types
  • How to report precipitation and turbulence
  • Examples of PIREPs and how to use them
  • How to create and provide a PIREP