What does the acronym TAF stand for?

The acronym TAF stands for Terminal Aerodrome Forecast. A TAF is a weather report specifically designed for the needs of aviation operations, particularly for airports. It provides detailed meteorological information for a specific aerodrome and is issued at regular intervals, typically every six hours. The forecast covers a period of 24 or 30 hours and includes important details such as expected wind direction and speed, visibility, weather phenomena, and the anticipated cloud cover. This information is essential for pilots and air traffic controllers to make informed decisions about flight operations and safety during takeoff, landing, and the duration of flights.

Understanding TAFs is crucial for anyone involved in aviation, as they help ensure that flights can be conducted safely in varying weather conditions.