Plain English Meaning

NOTAMs are short official bulletins that tell pilots about anything unusual or temporary at an airport, on a route, or in the airspace — things that aren't on the regular charts because they could change tomorrow. Examples include a closed runway, a broken approach light, or a temporary no-fly zone.

Full Definition

NOTAMs are official, time-sensitive notices issued by the FAA that inform pilots of changes or hazards affecting the National Airspace System — including runway closures, inoperative lighting or navigation aids, temporary flight restrictions, construction, unlit obstructions, and changes to airport services. Pilots are required to relevant NOTAMs as part of under 91.103.