The FAA plans to eliminate National Weather Service (NWS) forecasters at all 21 Air Route Traffic Control Centers (ARTCC), replacing them with an automated system, with layoffs anticipated by April 20.
The National Weather Service Employees Organization (NWSEO) warns that this change will "endanger flight safety," citing the historical context that led to the implementation of staff meteorologists after a fatal 1980s plane crash.
While not confirming layoffs, the FAA stated it is working with NOAA on an interagency agreement and maintains that weather safety is its top priority, assuring no change in service will compromise this goal.
The FAA is eliminating National Weather Service (NWS) forecasters at all 21 of its Air Route Traffic Control Centers (ARTCC) in favor of an automated system.
The alarm was raised by the National Weather Service Employees Organization ib Monday. The group says forecasters will be laid off on April 20.
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Russ Niles is Editor-in-Chief of AVweb. He has been a pilot for 30 years and joined AVweb 22 years ago. He and his wife Marni live in southern British Columbia where they also operate a small winery.
