What does TAF stand for in meteorological terms?

TAF stands for Terminal Aerodrome Forecast, which is a vital product in aviation weather reporting. This forecast is specifically designed to provide information on expected atmospheric conditions at an airport over a defined period, typically 24 or 30 hours. TAF reports include details about wind speeds and directions, visibility, and expected weather phenomena such as precipitation or storms, which are crucial for flight planning and safety.

The focus of the TAF is on the area around an airport, helping pilots and airline operations to make informed decisions based on anticipated weather changes. By giving forecasts tailored to airport conditions, TAFs supplement other weather information and play an important role in maintaining safe flight operations and effective air traffic management.