Plain English Meaning
An FAA service that helps pilots with weather briefings, filing flight plans, and getting information while flying. It is a help desk for pilots, not a controller that separates traffic.
Full Definition
An air traffic facility operated by the FAA that provides pilot briefings, flight plan filing and processing, in-flight advisory services, search and rescue initiation, weather information, and assistance to lost or distressed aircraft. FSS does not provide air traffic control separation services; it provides advisory and support services to pilots before, during, and after flight.
Context Anchor
You may FSS before a flight by phone or online for a , or during flight by for updated information or help.