What is an ATIS broadcast?

ATIS (Automatic Terminal Information Service) is a continuous broadcast of essential aerodrome and weather information for arriving and departing aircraft.

How do pilots use ATIS information?

Pilots listen to the ATIS broadcast before contacting air traffic services and acknowledge the current ATIS code letter on initial contact.

What details are typically included in an ATIS message?

ATIS messages include weather conditions, active runways, available approaches, NOTAMs, and other relevant operational information.

How often are ATIS broadcasts updated?

ATIS is usually updated every 30 minutes or immediately if significant weather or operational changes occur.

What is D-ATIS and how does it differ from standard ATIS?

D-ATIS (Data-link ATIS) provides the same information as voice ATIS but is delivered electronically via data link to compatible cockpit systems.

ATIS Broadcasts and Use

Medium4 min readCommunications

Moderately Examined

Why this matters

Accurate, timely ATIS use ensures pilots are fully briefed on airfield conditions, reducing misunderstandings and radio congestion. This supports safer, more efficient operations and helps prevent errors during critical flight phases.

ATIS broadcasts provide pilots with up-to-date, repetitive information about an airfield’s weather, runways, and operational status. By listening to the Automatic Terminal Information Service before contacting air traffic control, pilots streamline communications and ensure they have the latest essential data for safe departures and arrivals.

Quick Check

What is the primary purpose of an ATIS broadcast at a busy airport?

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In depth

Explanation

What is ATIS?

The Automatic Terminal Information Service (ATIS) is a continuous broadcast at busy airports, delivering current weather, runway information, and operational notices to arriving and departing aircraft. Each broadcast is assigned a unique letter (e.g., "Information Bravo") and is updated at least every 30 minutes or immediately after significant weather changes.

How to Use ATIS

Tune to the published ATIS frequency (found in the AIP or flight guides) before initial contact with the airfield’s ATS unit.
Listen to the full broadcast, noting the information letter, weather details, runway in use, and any special instructions or outages.
On first radio contact with ATC, state you have received the current ATIS (e.g., "Information Charlie") and confirm the altimeter setting if required.

D-ATIS and VOLMET

D-ATIS (Data-link ATIS) delivers the same information in text form via data link, useful for modern cockpits.
VOLMET broadcasts provide en-route weather updates for multiple airports, mainly for aircraft in flight.

Decoding ATIS Messages

ATIS messages follow a standard format: information letter, time, wind, visibility, weather, temperature, dew point, QNH/QFE, runway(s) in use, and any special notes. Listen carefully for operational changes or temporary restrictions.

When to Use ATIS

Before departure: to plan taxi, take-off, and initial climb.
Before arrival: to prepare for approach, landing, and taxi.
During cruise: to monitor destination and alternate weather trends.

The essentials

Key Points

ATIS stands for Automatic Terminal Information Service.

ATIS broadcasts provide weather, runway, and operational information at airports.

Each ATIS cycle is identified by a letter (e.g., Information Alpha, Bravo, etc.).

Pilots must listen to ATIS before initial contact with ATC and state the information letter.

ATIS updates at least every 30 minutes or after significant weather changes.

D-ATIS delivers ATIS via data link; VOLMET provides en-route weather for multiple airports.

ATIS reduces radio congestion by broadcasting routine information to all pilots.

Watch out

Exam Traps & Typical Mistakes

Confusing ATIS with VOLMET or other weather services.

Forgetting to state the ATIS information letter on first contact with ATC.

Assuming ATIS is always available—some airfields only broadcast during operational hours.

Believing ATIS provides en-route weather (it is specific to individual airfields).

Misunderstanding the update cycle—ATIS updates with routine observations or significant changes, not just at fixed times.

Test yourself

Example Exam Questions

Question 2Medium

How should a pilot indicate receipt of the current ATIS information when contacting an ATSU?

Question 3Easy

Which statement best describes a broadcast in aviation communications?

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