Weather

What is the difference between a METAR and a TAF?

Answer

A METAR is an observed surface report; a TAF is a terminal aerodrome forecast

A METAR is an observation of current surface weather; a TAF is a forecast for an airport's terminal area.

Source: AC 00-45

Not the answer

  • A METAR is a forecast; a TAF is an observation
  • Both are forecasts
  • A METAR covers a region; a TAF covers a single time

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