Overview
Make sense of the sky
Weather is part of every flight lesson, including the ones that stay on the ground. Learn to distinguish an observation from a forecast and connect the conditions you read about with the questions you discuss during a briefing.
Begin with METARs and TAFs, then explore density altitude and Arizona heat. These explanations build understanding; use current weather information, aircraft-specific performance data, and your instructor’s guidance when preparing for an actual flight.
A practical next step: Get to know Falcon Field.
Articles in this topic
2 articles35 min read
METARs and TAFs: A Student Pilot’s Guide
Learn to decode METARs and TAFs with worked examples, illustrated forecast timelines, official weather website walkthroughs, and interactive practice.
Read the article4 min read
Density Altitude: Why Arizona Heat Matters in Flight Training
Understand the connection between air density, aircraft performance, and the questions students should bring to a performance briefing.
Read the articleGo to the source
Official resources
Read the original references alongside the articles.
NOAA Aviation Weather Center
Official aviation weather observations, forecasts, and product guidance.
aviationweather.govFAA aviation handbooks
The FAA’s reference library for aircraft knowledge, flying skills, weather, and instruction.
faa.gov