Plain English Meaning

A weather warning aimed mainly at smaller aircraft, telling pilots about conditions like icing, bumpy air, low clouds, poor visibility, or strong surface winds that aren't extreme but still matter — especially if you're flying a light plane.

Full Definition

An AIRMET is a weather advisory issued by the National Weather Service for weather conditions that may affect aircraft safety but are less severe than those requiring a SIGMET. AIRMETs cover moderate icing, , of 30 or greater, widespread reduced visibility below 3 , below 1,000 feet, and extensive . They are particularly relevant to and are issued on a scheduled basis every six hours, with unscheduled updates as conditions change.