How could you obtain weather information for an aerodrome when en-route?

• A. VOLMET
• B. ATIS/AWOS/ASOS
• C. VOR broadcast
• D. FIS

Answer: (B)

When you’re en-route and want weather for a specific aerodrome, tune into that aerodrome’s weather information broadcast—ATIS, AWOS, or ASOS. These automated systems continuously transmit the latest observed conditions for that field, including wind, visibility, cloud, temperature and dew point, altimeter setting, and the active runway. They may also provide a brief forecast or trend. If you’re within receiving range or have data-link access to the aerodrome’s information, you can update your approach planning with this data as you fly toward the field.

VOLMET exists to give weather information for various aerodromes to aircraft in flight, but for precise, current conditions at the aerodrome you’re approaching, the direct aerodrome broadcast (ATIS/AWOS/ASOS) is the most useful source. A VOR broadcast carries navigation signals, not weather, and FIS is more general flight information rather than the dedicated aerodrome weather broadcast.