The Automatic Terminal Information Service (ATIS) is a continuous broadcast of recorded, non-control information that provides pilots with essential, up-to-date information about an airport. This information is vital for safe and efficient flight operations.

Purpose of ATIS

Imagine flying into a bustling airport. With planes taking off and landing every few minutes, it can be overwhelming for pilots to keep track of the latest weather conditions, runway information, and other essential details. That’s where the Automatic Terminal Information Service (ATIS) comes in.

The main purpose of ATIS is to provide pilots with current weather information, airport conditions, and other important operational details. This helps reduce radio traffic and the workload of air traffic controllers.

What information does ATIS provide

Here’s a breakdown of the information typically provided in an ATIS broadcast:

  • Weather Conditions:
    • Temperature: Current air temperature.
    • Dew Point: A measure of atmospheric moisture content.
    • Wind: Wind direction and speed.
    • Visibility: Horizontal visibility.
    • Sky Condition: Cloud cover and ceiling height.
  • Active Runways:
    • Runway in Use: Specifies the runways currently open for landings and takeoffs.
  • Available Approaches:
    • Instrument Approaches: Lists the instrument procedures available for landing, such as ILS, VOR, or GPS approaches.
  • Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs):
    • Temporary Restrictions: Informs pilots of any temporary restrictions or hazards, such as runway closures, construction zones, or wildlife activity.
  • Altimeter Settings:
    • QNH: The pressure setting at mean sea level, used to calibrate aircraft altimeters for accurate altitude readings.
  • Runway Surface Conditions:
    • Braking Action: Provides information about the braking action on the runway, particularly important in wet or icy conditions.
  • Transition Levels:
    • Altitudes: Specifies the altitudes at which pilots should transition between different airspace classifications.
  • Traffic Advisories:
    • Air Traffic Density: Provides information about the current air traffic volume and any potential delays.

Example of an ATIS Broadcast: “Los Angeles International Airport information Alpha, time 1400 Zulu. Wind 240 at 15 knots, visibility 10 kilometers, broken at 1000 feet, temperature 20, dew point 12, altimeter 29.92. Runway 25 Left for departures, Runway 24 Right for arrivals. ILS Runway 24 Right approach in use. Advise on initial contact you have information Alpha.”

Note: ATIS broadcasts can vary in length and detail depending on the specific airport and current conditions. Pilots are expected to listen to the entire broadcast to obtain all the necessary information.

How Pilots Use ATIS

Before contacting air traffic control, pilots tune into the designated ATIS frequency to listen to the broadcast and take note of the latest information. Each ATIS update is identified by a unique phonetic letter (e.g., Alpha, Bravo), which pilots report to the controller when checking in to confirm they have the most current details.

ATIS broadcasts operate on VHF frequencies, typically in the range of 118.000 MHz to 121.975 MHz. The specific frequency for an airport’s ATIS can vary, so it’s essential for pilots to check sources like the Airport/Facility Directory (AFD), aviation charts, or electronic flight planning tools. This ensures they have the correct frequency at their fingertips and can stay informed for a smooth pre-flight or approach process.

Types of ATIS Broadcasts

ATIS broadcasts can be provided in different formats, depending on the airport’s setup and specific needs:

  • Voice ATIS: The traditional ATIS format, where a recorded voice continuously broadcasts on a dedicated VHF frequency. This is the most common method used.
  • Data Link ATIS (D-ATIS): Modern aircraft equipped with ACARS or CPDLC systems can receive ATIS information as digital text. This allows pilots to read the latest ATIS data directly on their electronic flight bags (EFBs) or flight management systems (FMS), enhancing convenience and reducing the risk of missed information from radio broadcasts.
  • Digital ATIS: This format is similar to D-ATIS, but it is displayed on ground monitors at terminals and other locations in the airport. Ground personnel, such as airline dispatchers and support crews, use this data to coordinate airport operations effectively.

ATIS Update Cycle and Identification

ATIS broadcasts are typically updated at regular intervals, usually every 30 to 60 minutes. However, they can be refreshed more frequently if there are significant changes, such as shifts in weather, runway status, or urgent notices. Each updated broadcast is assigned a unique identifier using the phonetic alphabet (e.g., Alpha, Bravo, Charlie), progressing sequentially.

When pilots tune in to ATIS, they listen for the identifier to confirm they have the latest information. This practice helps ensure that their flight preparations and decisions align with the current conditions at the airport. Controllers often ask pilots to state the ATIS identifier they received, confirming that everyone is on the same page for safe and efficient operations.

Importance of ATIS in Aviation

ATIS is essential for ensuring safe and efficient airport operations. It provides valuable support in various areas, including –

  • Reduce Radio Traffic: ATIS broadcasts routine information continuously, which means pilots don’t need to request this information directly from air traffic control. This frees up ATC frequencies for more urgent and complex communications, enhancing overall efficiency.
  • Improve Situational Awareness: By knowing details about the runway, weather, and other conditions before they arrive or depart, pilots can prepare and make better-informed decisions. This advance knowledge helps reduce stress and potential errors.
  • Enhance Safety: Timely updates about weather changes, obstructions, or unusual activities provide critical information that can impact flight safety. Pilots can adjust their plans accordingly to ensure the safest possible operations.
  • Support Airport Operations: Ground and dispatch crews also benefit from ATIS by staying informed about current conditions. This helps them plan and coordinate tasks such as aircraft movements, de-icing operations, and route adjustments more effectively.

Conclusion

The Automatic Terminal Information Service (ATIS) is an essential communication tool in aviation, providing continuous, real-time updates crucial for safe and efficient airport operations. By informing pilots of current weather, runway conditions, and approach procedures, ATIS ensures that flight crews and ground operators stay aligned with the latest operational data at busy airports. With technological advancements, ATIS has become more accessible through both voice and digital formats, reducing the risk of communication overload on traditional ATC frequencies and enhancing situational awareness for all involved.

AviationHunt Team

Our team at AviationHunt is a group of aviation experts and enthusiasts. We aim to provide aviation insights, technical notes, best aircraft maintenance practices, and aviation safety tips.