Learn to read METAR and TAF

Aviation weather reports look like code because they are one, but the rules are simple and the same worldwide. These guides explain them in plain English, with real-style examples.

Guides

• How to read a METAR
  Every group in order, with annotated examples from Europe and the US.
• How to read a TAF
  The forecast counterpart of the METAR: validity times and change groups.
• METAR and TAF abbreviations
  A searchable reference of every code, grouped by topic.
• Flight categories: VFR, MVFR, IFR, LIFR
  How ceiling and visibility turn into VFR, MVFR, IFR or LIFR.
• QNH and altimeter settings
  Q1018 or A3002? Pressure groups, conversions and why they matter.
• METAR vs TAF vs SPECI
  Observation, forecast or special report: when to use which.

Tool

• METAR decoder
  Paste a METAR and get it explained group by group, with its flight category.

Practice on real reports

See real reports: EGLL · KJFK · EDDF · EPWR · all airports.