Short definition: TAF stands for Terminal Aerodrome Forecast, a coded aviation weather forecast for a specific aerodrome covering expected conditions over a stated period.
Detailed explanation: A TAF gives forecast weather for an airport, usually including wind, visibility, significant weather, cloud and, where applicable, changes expected during the forecast period. It is issued in a standard format so pilots and dispatchers can assess likely operating conditions at departure, destination and alternate aerodromes. Time groups and change indicators such as BECMG, TEMPO and PROB show when conditions are expected to change and how certain those changes are. A TAF is a forecast, not an observation, so it should be read alongside METARs, NOTAMs and other operational information.
Key considerations:
- A TAF only covers the aerodrome and forecast period stated, so it may not reflect en-route weather or conditions outside that time window.
- A common mistake is confusing forecast change groups with current conditions and reading a TAF as if it were a METAR.
- A TAF directly affects fuel planning, alternate selection and the decision on whether a flight can be dispatched safely and legally.
Further Reading: Live TAFs – Aviation Weather Center | TAF – Wikipedia
