Pilots and Weather: Tom Skilling Looks at the Forecast’s Role in Flight
The Critical Factor in Safety
A record number of people will be flying this holiday season, with United Airlines expecting 9.9 million air travelers between December 19 and January 6. As pilots navigate through the skies, they rely heavily on weather forecasts to ensure a safe and smooth journey.
Captain Kevin Sprague’s Experience
Captain Kevin Sprague, a seasoned pilot with United Airlines, has flown in some of the most severe weather conditions. He has been in 50-knot winds and has navigated through turbulent skies. Sprague credits his experience and training for his ability to handle challenging weather conditions.
The Importance of Weather Briefings
Before every flight, pilots receive a detailed weather briefing from their meteorology team. This briefing provides them with information on current and forecasted weather conditions, including wind direction, speed, and turbulence.
Advanced Weather Technology
Modern weather technology has revolutionized the way pilots access weather information. With the use of iPads and satellite imaging, pilots can now see weather patterns in real-time, allowing them to make informed decisions about their flight route.
Radar and Turbulence
Radar technology has improved significantly, allowing pilots to detect turbulence earlier and make adjustments to their flight plan. “We didn’t have the computer capability 20 years ago to do this, rapid precision mesoscale, and it takes a very high-powered computer,” said Captain Sprague.
The Role of Meteorologists
Nathan Polderman, Senior Manager of Meteorology at United Airlines, oversees a team of 14 meteorologists who provide weather forecasts and analysis to pilots. “Every single day in this room we’re managing some kind of weather impact somewhere,” he said.
Forecasting Weather Impacts
Meteorologists use sophisticated weather maps to forecast weather impacts on flight routes. “The way I like to describe it is our airplanes are like boats on a river,” said Polderman. “And the river in this case is the jet stream.”
Volcanic Ash and Mixed Precipitation
Believe it or not, one of the highest priority concerns for meteorologists is volcanic ash emissions. These emissions can reduce visibility, damage flight controls, and cause engines to fail. Mixed precipitation is also a major concern, as it can cause significant disruptions to flight operations.
Conclusion
The role of weather in flight is critical to ensuring safety and smooth operations. Pilots and meteorologists work together to provide accurate weather forecasts and analysis, allowing pilots to make informed decisions about their flight route. With advanced technology and sophisticated weather maps, pilots can navigate through even the most challenging weather conditions.
FAQs
Q: How do pilots receive weather briefings?
A: Pilots receive weather briefings from their meteorology team before every flight.
Q: What is the role of meteorologists in flight operations?
A: Meteorologists provide weather forecasts and analysis to pilots, helping them to make informed decisions about their flight route.
Q: What are some of the biggest weather concerns for pilots?
A: Some of the biggest weather concerns for pilots include turbulence, volcanic ash emissions, and mixed precipitation.
Q: How has technology improved weather forecasting in flight?
A: Technology has improved weather forecasting in flight through the use of iPads, satellite imaging, and sophisticated weather maps.
