Weather

METAR

METAR is a format for reporting weather information. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/METAR

ATIS

ATIS: Automatic terminal information service, broadcasts essential information like weather, active runways, available approaches, etc.

• (Voice) ATIS: tune in the frequency to listen.
• D-ATIS: Data-link ATIS, is text-based, can be displayed on an electronic display in the aircraft.

ATIS vs AWOS vs ASOS

• ATIS: Automatic Terminal Information Service. contains current, routine information to arriving and departing aircraft as well as weather reports derived from human data collection that is updated hourly or upon pertinent data changes.
• AWOS: Automated Weather Observing System. Typically includes ceiling and sky conditions, visibility, temperature, dew point, altimeter setting and wind speed, gusts and direction.
• ASOS: Automated Surface Observing System. Can additionally provide the type and intensity of precipitation (rain, snow, freezing rain), and obstructions to visibility such as fog and haze.

Diff:

• ATIS is by human recording. AWOS and ASOS are automated.
• ATIS is generated hourly (or as required); AWOS is minute-by-minute.
• ASOS is similar to AWOS but is managed, maintained and controlled by NOAA rather than the FAA or the organization that operates the airport.