Ask FLYING: What is a G-AIRMET?

An aviation meteorologist explains how a graphical AIRMET is different from a traditional one.

Wednesday, October 05, 2022 at 08:51 AM ET

Verified

The relatively new G-AIRMET format gives a snapshot of forecast hazardous conditions. [Courtesy: National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration]

Key Takeaways:

G-AIRMETs replaced legacy textual AIRMETs as the operational product in 2010, offering significantly improved spatiotemporal resolution for aviation weather hazards.
Unlike time-smeared, six-hour legacy AIRMETs that cover broad areas, G-AIRMETs provide precise, graphical "snapshots" of hazards valid at specific times.
G-AIRMETs are interactive and seamless, breaking down complex categories (e.g., turbulence, LLWS) into distinct, clearer products, contrasting with the textual, less granular legacy AIRMETs constrained by older boundaries.
Pilots are strongly encouraged to exclusively use G-AIRMETs, as the legacy product is outdated, less accurate, and is slated for eventual discontinuation.

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Q. What is a ‘G-AIRMET’ and how is it different from an AIRMET?

A. It has been more than a decade since the Graphical AIRMET [AIRman’s METeorological Information] or G-AIRMET replaced the legacy AIRMET. However, it seems that on various podcasts, webinars, and social media platforms, pilots are still clinging to the term “AIRMET.” Perhaps it’s because they were never told that on March 16, 2010, the G-AIRMET became the operational product for pilots and replaced the existing textual AIRMET. After standardizing the language for the AIRMET text in 2006, the legacy AIRMET is now a byproduct of the G-AIRMET, and unfortunately, has stuck around for more than a decade for a variety of reasons. Moreover, many of the heavyweight EFBs continue to cling to the legacy AIRMETs in their app.