Aviation meteorologist
An aviation meteorologist is a person who forecasts the weather for aviation: producing the observations, forecasts and warnings an airport, its pilots and the airlines work from.
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Rate 5 of the 20 essential skills of this occupation (European ESCO data). No account needed.
coach employees
prepare forecasts for take-off and landing
perform data analysis
use meteorological tools to forecast meteorological conditions
provide reports on routine meteorological observations
About aviation meteorologist
The day runs on a fixed rhythm. The aviation meteorologist makes observations at set intervals, every hour, analyses the situation, reports current conditions and issues airport forecasts along with route forecasts. Meteorological tools are used to forecast weather conditions and reports on routine observations prepared.
The meteorologist prepares forecasts for the time of departure and arrival and warns of fog, a low cloud base, thunderstorms, wind shear, icing and heavy precipitation, because a decision to delay, change runway or divert rests on that information.
The meteorologist advises pilots, airport operators and carriers on the weather, uses several communication channels, including mobile communication systems on board aircraft, works as part of a flight crew and adapts to changing situations. Other staff are trained as well. Expected conditions at the airport, current conditions and route forecasts are reported to pilots, airport operators and airlines.
Key Work Functions
Core areas of responsibility for a aviation meteorologist.
Weather Data Collection and Analysis
- Collect weather-related data from various meteorological sources and instruments
- Perform comprehensive data analysis to identify weather patterns and trends
- Review meteorological forecast data for consistency and accuracy
- Monitor performance of meteorological equipment to ensure reliable data collection
Forecast Development and Hazard Warnings
- Prepare detailed forecasts for take-off and landing operations at airports
- Forecast meteorological conditions using specialized computer models and tools
- Issue timely warnings and advisories about hazardous weather conditions
- Advise aircraft and airport operators in hazardous meteorological situations
Aviation Communications and Reporting
- Provide reports on routine meteorological observations to aviation stakeholders
- Use aeronautical mobile service communications to transmit weather information
- Communicate weather forecasts and warnings through multiple channels clearly and concisely
- Provide day-to-hour observations and analysis to pilots and airport operators
Quality Assurance and Equipment Management
- Provide quality assurance for meteorological services to maintain aviation safety standards
- Plan procurement of meteorological equipment and systems
- Adapt to changing weather situations and adjust forecasts accordingly
- Coach and train employees in meteorological procedures and aviation weather services
Research and Professional Development
- Conduct meteorological research to improve forecasting accuracy and methods
- Analyze weather forecast outcomes to identify improvements
- Stay current with developments in meteorology and aviation weather standards
- Train other staff members in meteorological analysis and aviation procedures
European Skills Framework
Skills and knowledge areas required for this occupation based on European classification.
Essential (20)
Optional (3) — show
Related Occupations
Occupations that need many of the same essential skills, so the move between them is shortest.
Frequently asked questions
What does an aviation meteorologist do?
Aviation meteorologists forecast weather conditions in airports. They provide day-to-day, hour-to-hour observations, analysis, forecasts, warnings, and advice to pilots, airport operators and airlines in meteorological matters. They report weather conditions expected at airports, current conditions, and en route forecasts.
What skills does an aviation meteorologist need?
An aviation meteorologist needs 20 essential skills, including coach employees, prepare forecasts for take-off and landing, perform data analysis, use meteorological tools to forecast meteorological conditions, use different communication channels.
Will AI replace aviation meteorologist jobs?
The AI disruption score for aviation meteorologist is 51/100 (moderate risk). Skills most exposed to automation: provide reports on routine meteorological observations, collect weather-related data, use meteorological tools to forecast meteorological conditions. Most resilient: tolerate stress, adapt to changing situations, coach employees.
AI Replacement Risk
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