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 Notices to Air Missions (NOTAMs), including TFRs, ramp closures, and other flight-critical information, before every flight.
Key resources for checking NOTAMs include Leidos Flight Service (which integrates them into weather briefings), the FAA's dedicated NOTAM search page, and mobile apps like ForeFlight that offer easy overlay options.
Forgetting to check NOTAMs is a violation of FAR 91.103, underscoring the importance of making a thorough pre-flight briefing a consistent habit.

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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.