What information does PIREPS provide?

PIREPS, or Pilot Reports, provide in-flight pilot reported weather conditions. These reports are critical because they reflect real-time weather observations as experienced by pilots flying through specific airspace. PIREPS can include various aspects such as turbulence, cloud bases, icing conditions, and visibility, all of which are invaluable for other pilots, air traffic controllers, and meteorologists.

This kind of information enhances situational awareness and helps in making informed decisions regarding flight operations. Unlike forecast models or landside predictions that may not accurately depict current flying conditions, PIREPS give firsthand accounts of what pilots are experiencing, helping to complement and validate numerical weather prediction data. They serve an essential role in aviation safety by informing other pilots of potential hazards encountered along their routes, making the reports an essential component for real-time weather assessment in aviation.