1. Automated Weather Systems- The User Perspective
Melissa McCaffrey
Senior Government Analyst
Air Traffic Services

2. ASOS/AWOS Overall, no complaints from members on either system
No accidents/incidents where ASOS/AWOS have been a casual factor that we’re aware of
Need to be looking at opportunity where other types of surface observations are available, federal or non federal
Weather cameras/non certified systems
Icing forecasts are still not great and VFR not recommended is still over forecast.
ASOS/AWOS  effective means of gaining surface WX observations , we need an avenue that state and local municipals can do a cost share with the government
We need to be ensuring that all ASOS/AWOS reports are part of the FAA system, and that observations are part of pilot weather briefings
We cannot let perfect be the enemy of good enough
Cost effective mechanism that state and local government can participate in
In AK where weather cameras are an incredible supplemental/picture is worth a thousand words the flight service specialist can look at the actual picture
In locations where ASOS/AWOS was not practical program couldn’t be deployed
Cost of weather camera vs. ASOS/AWOS
Other opportunities at a lower cost to the public

3. Weather Cameras Alaska FAA Weather Camera Program
Near real-time weather information to pilots
Sometimes co-located with AWOS units
Efforts being made to place cameras in mountain passes which lack other observations
Surface observations are not just at airports at mountain passes, when there are not cameras, we have not gone the extra mile to provide information to people using that pass  increase safety risk

4. Compare current to clear day image
Shows user comparison of current conditions with a clear day image

5. Video Loop provides trend information
Video loop feature shows last six hour weather to help see trend.

6. Added value of the camera…
In this instance, the McKinley Park AWOS was reporting Clear and 10 miles. The weather camera gave a much better idea of local conditions.
AWOS at the time: PAIN AP Z CLR

7. Alaska Weather Camera Benefits: Improved weather situational awareness
Aid pilots in making better decisions
Fills gaps where no other weather data is available
Limitations:
Daytime only information
Future:
Need research to evaluate low-light or thermal sensors
Consider human factors of data presentation
While pilots really like this program, it is most beneficial in summer, with long daylight hours. In Winter current sensors don’t show conditions the bulk of the time, often too late for pilot decision making. Need to research other sensors to extend the benefits.

8. Exploring options:
Certified vs. Non-Certified
Low cost technology
As Alaskan NWS observers (A-PAID) are being replaced, we need to explore options that provide critical access to surface weather
While understanding that the FAA and NWS are working together on options, regardless of if it is certified or non certified, any enchantment is a safety plus
Weather data must be distributed to users via all normal weather delivery modes

9. Contact Information
Melissa McCaffrey
Office Phone: (301)