Unlocking the Forecast: Understanding TAFs



Terminal Aerodrome Forecasts (TAFs) are crucial for pilots and aviation enthusiasts to understand for effective flight planning. This beginner's guide focuses on how to interpret TAFs issued by airports within the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) countries, complete with an illustrative example.


What is a TAF?

An overview of Terminal Aerodrome Forecasts (TAFs) and their importance in providing detailed weather forecasts for pilots.


Decoding a TAF:

  • Station Identifier: A four-letter ICAO code representing the airport or weather station.
  • Forecast Time Period: The validity period of the forecast, typically 24 or 30 hours, given in UTC.
  • Wind: Expected wind direction and speed, along with possible gusts.
  • Visibility: Forecasted visibility in meters or kilometers.
  • Weather Phenomena: Predicted weather conditions like rain, fog, or thunderstorms.
  • Cloud Coverage: Forecasted cloud types and levels.
  • Change Groups: Information on expected changes in weather conditions during the forecast period.

Example TAF and Interpretation:

Example: "EGLL 121700Z 1218/1324 27015G25KT 9999 SCT030 TEMPO 1300/1309 5000 RA BKN014"

  • EGLL: London Heathrow Airport
  • 121700Z: Issued on the 12th of the month at 1700 UTC
  • 1218/1324: Valid from the 12th at 1800 UTC to the 13th at 2400 UTC
  • 27015G25KT: Wind from 270 degrees at 15 knots, gusting up to 25 knots
  • 9999: Visibility 10 kilometers or more
  • SCT030: Scattered clouds at 3000 feet
  • TEMPO 1300/1309: Temporary conditions expected between 1300 UTC and 1309 UTC on the 13th
  • 5000 RA: Visibility reduced to 5000 meters in rain
  • BKN014: Broken clouds at 1400 feet.

Tips for Practicing TAF Reading:

  • Consistently review TAF reports from various EASA airports.
  • Use aviation websites like METAR-TAF.com to check your interpretations against their decoded versions.
  • Familiarize yourself with forecasting terms and symbols commonly used in TAFs.


Interpreting TAFs is an essential skill for any pilot or aviation enthusiast. Regular practice and a keen eye for details will enhance your ability to understand and use these forecasts effectively.

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