How Do You Check NOTAMs?

Here's how to build in the habit of getting a thorough weather briefing before every flight.

Meg Godlewski

Wednesday, April 17, 2024 at 12:11 PM ET

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A screenshot of Leidos Flight Service interactive map [Credit: Leidos Flight Service/ screenshot]

Key Takeaways:

Pilots are legally required by CFR 91.103 to check all available flight information, including Notices to Air Missions (NOTAMs) and Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs), before every flight; forgetting to do so is a violation.
Key resources for checking NOTAMs and TFRs include obtaining a weather briefing from Leidos Flight Service (1800wxbrief.com), using the FAA's dedicated NOTAM search page (notams.aim.faa.gov), or easily via the ForeFlight mobile app.
It is essential to cultivate the habit of getting a thorough weather briefing, which encompasses all relevant NOTAMs, before every flight, even for short local operations.

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Question: I am a private student learning about airspace, and I am about to start solo flights to other airports. There is so much information a pilot has to know, particularly about airspace and ramp closures and TFRs. Is there a best practice for checking them before a flight? What happens if I forget to do this?

Answer: There are several ways to check Notices to Air Missions (NOTAMs) as required by CFR 91.103.