Figure 3-8. PIREP Example

CHAPTER THREE

METEOROLOGY FLIGHT PLANNING

In-flight when requested

When unusual or unforecast weather conditions are encountered

When weather conditions on an IFR approach differ from the latest observation

When a missed approach is executed due to weather

When a wind shear is encountered on departure or arrival

Your observed PIREPs should be given to any ground facility with which you have established

communication (e.g., FSS, ARTCC, EFAS-En route Flight Advisory Service, etc.). After passing

the immediately pertinent information, you should follow up with a radio call to a Meteorology

Office (METRO) to ensure rapid dissemination to other using agencies. If you are not able to

report while in the air, you should make a report to the nearest FSS or Weather Service Office

upon landing, especially if weather encountered was different than forecast.

When airborne, you would consult the Flight Information Handbook for the proper format, which

includes aircraft identification, location, time (UTC), altitude (MSL), type aircraft, sky cover,

visibility and weather, temperature, wind, turbulence, icing, and remarks. Even though your pilot

report should be as complete and accurate as possible, do not be overly concerned with strict

format and phraseology. The important thing is that your PIREP is relayed so others may benefit

from your report (Figure 3-8).

"Pensacola METRO, Rocket 501, a single T-39 Sabreliner at one-six thousand feet,

200 KIAS indicated, holding 20 miles south of Navy Pensacola, at 2100Z experiencing IFR in

stratus clouds, temperature 15 C, winds 330 at 25, no turbulence, Light Rime Icing."

Figure 3-8 PIREP Example

3-16

SEVERE WEATHER WATCHES, MILITARY ADVISORIES, AND PIREPS