Definition
A continuous broadcast of recorded non-control information at busier airports, providing arriving and departing pilots with current details such as active runway, weather conditions, altimeter setting, and any relevant notices. Each broadcast is identified by a phonetic letter (Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, etc.) that updates whenever the information changes.
Plain English
A recorded radio message at busy airports that tells pilots the latest airport conditions so controllers don't have to repeat the same information to every aircraft.
Context Anchor
Pilots commonly use ATIS before taxi, before takeoff, and before arriving at a towered airport.
Derivation
Automatic (it plays on a loop without a controller speaking each time), Terminal (relating to the area around an airport), Information (the data being shared), Service (a continuous provision). The name describes exactly what it does.
Why Pilots Care
Provides routine airport information without tying up air traffic control frequencies, helping pilots plan their approach and departure safely and efficiently.
Intuition Check
ATIS is information, not a clearance. A pilot still needs the required instruction or clearance from air traffic control before taxiing, taking off, landing, or entering controlled airspace when required.
Example Sentence 1
Before calling ground control for taxi, the pilot listened to ATIS and noted that runway 27 was active with information Bravo.
Example Sentence 2
ATIS reported winds from 270 at 12 knots, visibility 10 miles, and runway 27 in use.