FAI FSS - NOTAM Overview

A Notice To Airmen or NOTAM is a notice containing information (not known sufficiently in advance to publicize by other means) concerning the establishment, condition, or change in any component (facility, service, or procedure of, or hazard in the National Airspace System) the timely knowledge of which is essential to personnel concerned with flight operations.

Types of NOTAMs Include

• Class I NOTAMs
• Class II NOTAMs
• International NOTAMs
• Domestic NOTAMs
• Civil NOTAMs
• Military NOTAMs
• Published NOTAMs
• FDCNOTAMs
• Center Area NOTAMs
• NOTAM (D)S Including (U) and (O) NOTAMs

Class I NOTAMs (ICAO):NOTAMs distributed by means of telecommunication.

Class II NOTAMs (ICAO) or Published NOTAMs:NOTAMs distributed by means other than telecommunications. In the United States these NOTAMs are published in the Notices To Airmen Publication (NTAP) which is issued every 28 days.

International NOTAMs: Any NOTAM intended for distribution to more than one country would be considered an international NOTAM. However, an FSS does not have access to all international NOTAMs. For our purposes I will limit the definition to international NOTAMs that we at an FSS have access to. This would include NOTAMs stored in ICAO format in the United States NOTAM System (USNS) or published in the International NOTAMs section of the NTAP. The USNS stores international NOTAMs separately from domestic NOTAMs, but only for selected locations both inside and outside the United States. These NOTAMs are not included in a standard weather briefing unless specifically requested.

Domestic NOTAMs:NOTAMs that are primarily distributed within the United States although they may also be available in Canada. Domestic NOTAMs stored in the USNS are coded in a domestic format rather than an ICAO format.

Civil NOTAMs: Any NOTAM that is part of the civil NOTAM system which includes any NOTAM this is not part of the military NOTAM system.

Military NOTAMs: Any NOTAM that is part of the military NOTAM system which primarily includes NOTAMs on military airports and military airspace.

FDCNOTAMs: Flight Data Center NOTAMs are NOTAMs that are regulatory in nature such as changes to an instrument approach procedure or airway. Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) are also issued as FDCNOTAMs.

Center Area Notams: An FDCNOTAM issued for a condition that is not limited to one airport, therefore it is filed under the Air Route Traffic Control Center (ARTCC) that controls the airspace involved. TFRs, airway changes and laser light activity are examples of this type of NOTAM. This becomes very important to know when looking for NOTAMs on your own. For example you must retrieve ZANFDCNOTAMs for flights in Alaska because ZAN is the code for Anchorage ARTCC which is the controlling Center for all of Alaska.

NOTAM (D): A NOTAM given (in addition to local dissemination) distant dissemination beyond the area of responsibility of the Flight Service Station. This type of NOTAM now includes (U) NOTAMs and (O) NOTAMs. (U) NOTAMs are unverified NOTAMs which are those that are received from a source other than airport management and have not yet been confirmed by management personnel. This is allowed only at those airports where airport management has authorized it by Letter of Agreement. (O) NOTAMs are other aeronautical information which does not meet NOTAM criteria but may be beneficial to aircraft operations.

FAI FSS - Local Airport Advisories

Local Airport Advisory (LAA) is basically the same service that used to be known as just plain Airport Advisory (AA) years ago. The reason for the change in terminology is that there are two similar types of services that were added over the years called Remote Airport Advisory (RAA) and Remote Airport Information Service (RAIS). Both of these are different because of the fact that they are provided by FSS personnel not located at the airport where the service is provided. Neither of these types of services are available in Alaska so I will not go into any more detail about them here.

Local Airport Advisory (LAA) is a service provided by FSS facilities, which are located on the landing airport, have a discrete ground-to-air communications frequency or the tower frequency when the tower is closed, automated weather reporting with voice broadcasting, and a continuous ASOS/AWOS data display, other continuous direct reading instruments, or manual observations available to the specialist. Participation in the program is not mandatory but is encouraged. Safety is enhanced when everyone participates.

The Alaska Supplement lists this service at airports where it is available. Benefits include; weather information, particularly currentwind and altimeter setting, favored or designated runway, NOTAM and traffic information, and when requested, special VFR clearances (if conditions allow). Additional details can be found in the Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM) chapter 3, section 5 and chapter 4, section 1.

Some airports in Alaska with LAA service have a relatively new feature called Automatic Flight Information Service (AFIS). This is the FSS version of an ATIS. AFIS is the continuous broadcast of recorded non-control information at airports in Alaska where a FSS provides LAA service. The AFIS broadcast automates the repetitive transmission of essential but routine information such as weather, wind, altimeter, favored runway, breaking action, airport NOTAMs, and other applicable information. The information is continuously broadcast over a discrete VHF radio frequency (usually the ASOS frequency.)

FAI FSS - Flight Plan Overview

Preflight Planning

The first thing I want to recommend is that you file your flight plan via telephone when possible. We do understand in Alaska that there are times when telephone communications are not available, however it is preferred that you file over the phone when able.

The Alaska Supplement, in the "Procedures" section states, "Flight Plans may be submitted to the nearest Flight Service Station either in person or by telephone. Aircraft radio may be used if no other means are available." During the summer, when there is typically a lot of traffic, if a pilot files a flight plan over the radio it will, more often than not, end up causing a delay for other pilots calling on the radio. So as a courtesy to other pilots, please file over the phone when able. Remember, it is always safer to accomplish any task before a flight rather than during a flight so as to focus more attention outside the aircraft looking for traffic.

Domestic Flight Plans

Domestic Flight Plans are explained in great detail in the Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM) Chapter 5 beginning with paragraph 5-1-4. If you are interested in those details you may download a copy of the AIM from our Downloadable Publications page.

International Flight Plans

What is not so widely known to those pilots who normally do not fly outside the United States is the fact that, besides the domestic flight plan that all pilots are familiar with, there is also an ICAO or International Flight Plan. The International Flight Plan is very different from the Domestic Flight Plan. I would highly recommend that you research the process before you try to file one for the first time.

A Flight Plan is required for any flight into international and foreign airspace and in most cases an International Flight Plan is required. There are exceptions for flights between the lower 48 and Canada or Mexico if they do not cross any oceanic airspace. Those flight plans may be filed in the domestic format. All IFR flight plans between Alaska and Canada, however, must be in international format. VFR flight plans between Alaska and Canada may be filed in domestic format.

There is also a requirement for pilots who wish to file an RNAVSID or RNAVSTAR in their route to file in international format even if they are not crossing any international borders. Eventually all flight plans will probably have to be filed in international format. For information on how to file an international flight plan check out the International Flight Plan form and International Flight Plan Instructions on the Flight Plan Filing Page.

Master Flight Plan Program

The master flight plan program was established for the owners/operators of aircraft in Alaska. A master flight plan is intended to record static information on an aircraft, not on a pilot. Only one master flight plan, therefore, will be accepted per aircraft from the owner/operator. Master flight plan files are maintained by Flight Service Station Hubs for aircraft based within their respective area of responsibility, or Hub area. Aircraft owners/operators may file a master flight plan with any FSS in person, via mail, phone, fax, or radio. FSSs will forward master flight plan information to the appropriate FSS hub facility (FAI, ENA or JNU). A master flight plan on file with any Alaskan Region FSS hub facility will be accepted by all Alaskan FSSs. Upon receipt of master flight plan information, the FSS hub facility enters the information into their master flight plan file. The master flight plan becomes effective when the owner/operator is notified by the FSS specialist. This can be accomplished either verbally upon receipt of the master flight plan, or by other written or electronic means (fax, e-mail, phone, etc.).

Master flight plans must contain the following data:

• Aircraft Identification.
• Aircraft type/special equipment.
• Airspeed.
• Remarks, if any. (Radios, navigation equipment, floats, skis, other)
• Owner or operator's name, physical address and phone number.
• Owner or operator's mailing address.
• Aircraft home base, including tie-down number if available.
• Color of aircraft.
• Name and phone number of a 24-hour coordination contact.
• Optional items:
  • Service ceiling.
  • Maximum fuel capacity.

Aircraft owners/operators are responsible for ensuring the master flight plan information on file for their aircraft is current. Changes in master flight plan data should be reported to the appropriate facility immediately. Failure to provide updated information could cause unnecessary delays in search and rescue activities. Pilots who do not update master flight plan information may be excluded from the program.

When filing a flight plan for an aircraft with a master flight plan on file, provide the following information:

• Type of flight plan.
• Type of aircraft.
• Equipment code if IFR.
• Departure point.
• Departure time or activation time.
• Proposed altitude if IFR.
• Route of flight.
• Destination.
• Estimated time en route.
• Fuel on board.
• Pilot's last name.
• Number of people on board.

Pilots should advise where the master flight plan for the aircraft is filed when utilizing a master flight plan, i.e., "Master flight plan on file with Juneau FSS." The additional information required for search and rescue will be obtained from the facility holding the master flight plan file in the event the aircraft becomes overdue.

FAI FSS - TFR Overview

Temporary Flight Restrictions or TFRs, as the name implies, are temporarily designated areas where onlyauthorized aircraft are allowed to fly. There are many reasons a TFR may be issued, including, but not limited to: the presence of the President or other parties, designated disaster areas, toxic gas/fuel/nuclear spills, top secret flights, actual or possible volcanic eruptions, and forest fires.

TFRs are issued in the form of Center Area NOTAMs which means they are FDCNOTAMs that are not issued under a specific airport but rather under the Air Route Traffic Control Center (ARTCC) whose airspace contains the TFR area. Anchorage Center (ZAN) controls the entire state of Alaska.

Every ARTCC in the U.S. has an associated 3-letter designator (for domestic use) beginning with the letter "Z" that is used as a code name for that facility. So to retrieve TFRs for Alaska, you would need to request ZANFDCNOTAMs. Depending on the system you are using, they may or may not be retrived automatically if you request a standard briefing for your route. As a side note, there are also 4-letter designators for international NOTAMs (ICAO), but TFRs may not show up under international NOTAMs.

TFRs are issued in text form but are also normally available in graphic form on the faa.gov website. For your convenience there is a link for Graphic TFRs located on our NOTAM page. There may also be private organizations that provide a similar display. Always contact an FSS within two hours of flight to check for the latest TFRs.

Weather Processors and Sensors - Non-Federal AWOS

Office Phone: (405) 954-8427
Email:non-federal-program@faa.gov

Our Mission

Serve as the Office of Primary Responsibility (OPR) for the definition of Non-Federal AWOS acceptance criteria of Non-Federal AWOS in accordance with Advisory Circular 150/5220-16, Automated Weather Observing Systems (AWOS) for Non-Federal Applications, for use in the National Airspace System (NAS). Our services support the safety mission within the FAA Administrator’s Strategic Plans and Goals.

Systems and Equipment

Provide engineering advisory circular compliance review approval of new Non-Federal AWOS systems, including hardware, software, firmware, configuration management, training materials and documentation, including test plans, procedures and results. Provide engineering reviews and approvals of manufacturer defined modifications and enhancements.
Provide review and suitable for use determination of standalone and backup weather equipment.

Engineering Support

• Actively participate, as required, in the engineering evaluation of Non-Federal AWOS systems and components.
• Provide engineering support to airports, consultants and others in the siting, installation and use of non-Federal AWOS systems and standalone and backup weather equipment.
• Provide engineering and programmatic support to active and potential manufacturers of non-Federal AWOS systems as well as third party training providers and others throughout the FAA.

Documentation Support

• Maintain and issue updates to the Automated Weather Observing Systems (AWOS) for Non-Federal Applications Advisory Circular, 150/5220-16.
• Maintain and update non-Federal AWOS systems and manufacturers and the list of standalone and backup weather equipment found to be suitable for use.
• Maintain and issue updates to the Siting Criteria for Automated Weather Observing Systems (AWOS) Order, 6560.20.

• Automated Weather Observing Systems (AWOS) for Non-Federal Applications, Advisory Circular 150/5220-16
• Siting Criteria for Automated Weather observing Systems (AWOS), 6560.20
• List Non-Federal AWOS Systems and Manufacturers(PDF)
• Approval of Standalone and Backup Weather Equipment(PDF)

Spectrum Engineering & Policy - Spectrum Assignment and Engineering, AJW-1C2

• Radio Frequency Interference
• Radio Frequency Bands

The Spectrum Assignment and Engineering Office carries out those spectrum engineering functions that are the day-to-day operation of national radio systems, and acquiring NTIA authorization to radiate on a specified frequency at a designated location for each of the communications, navigation, and radar facilities operated by the agency.

This office is also responsible for continuing the development and the operation of the automated Frequency Management System, the Airspace Analysis Model, and for managing the Radio Frequency Interference Program.

How to Contact Spectrum Engineering & Policy

• Spectrum Engineering & Policy, AJW-1C
• 800 Independence Ave, SW. Rm 715E, Washington, DC 20591
• (202) 267-9710 (FAX) 202-267-6056

If you have any questions please feel free to contact Spectrum Engineering Services by sending an email to 9-AJW-Spectrum-Engineering-Communications@faa.gov.

External Links

• Department of Transportation (DOT)
• Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
• National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA)

Spectrum Engineering - Locations

• Frequency Management Offices

Your regional frequency management office plays an important role in supporting the goal of air safety within our Nation's airspace. We encourage you to contact either them or Spectrum Engineering, for any radio frequency requirements.

In this section you will find contact information for each frequency management office and FAA centers and regions.

Aeronautical Information Services

Aeronautical Information Services is the FAAs' civil aviation authority providing the foundations for flight in the national airspace system.

• Is the authoritative government source for collecting, storing, maintaining, and disseminating aeronautical data for the U. S. and its territories.
• Develops and maintains all public instrument flight procedures and airways.
• Serves as the FAA's aeronautical charting authority for the development, publication, and dissemination of aeronautical charts and products to support aviation and to meet demand for increased capacity, efficiency, and predictability in the airspace, routes, and airports of the National Airspace System (NAS).
• Provides the integrity of temporary aeronautical information through Notice to Airmen (NOTAMs) within the National Airspace System (NAS), provides policy and guidance to maintain data integrity and to ensure timely dissemination of NOTAMs, and is the final authority on NOTAM formatting to ensure NOTAMs are issued in accordance with NOTAM Policy (USNOF).
• Conducts formal aeronautical studies on existing or proposed construction that meets notice criteria and determines whether it is a hazard to navigable airspace or airport capacity.
  • Obstruction Evaluation Program
  • File Notice of Construction

Chart Discrepancies

You are encouraged to bring charting errors to our attention. Every FAA Aeronautical product contains contact information and brief instructions for reporting charting errors. You may contact us by mail, telephone, and web portal:

FAA, Aeronautical Information Services
1305 East-West Highway
SSMC4, Suite 4531
Silver Spring, MD 20910-3281
Telephone: 800-638-8972 (toll free, U.S. only)
Aeronautical Inquiries or Website Issues