Originally published in 2004
Weather Safety Strategies
- Obtain weather from all available sources prior to the flight.
- Know the tools you can use to update weather information in flight:
VFR (visual flight rules) flight following; flight watch or flight service; pilot reports; nearby
AWOS (automated weather observation system),
ASOS (automated surface observation system),
ATIS (automated terminal information system) frequencies; and on-board weather radar or lightning detection equipment with data linked weather available. - Learn to interpret in-flight weather cues and deteriorating visibility.
- Acquire instrument skills in addition to those required for a private pilot certificate.
- File an IFR (instrument flight rules) flight plan, and don’t cancel IFR until a VFR landing is assured.
Source: AOPA Pilot