Definition
A section of an aviation weather forecast that provides a general view of expected weather conditions beyond the main forecast period, typically covering the 6 hours after the detailed forecast ends. The outlook is less specific than the main forecast and gives only a broad indication of whether conditions will remain VFR, become MVFR, or deteriorate to IFR.
Plain English
A short look-ahead at what the weather is expected to do after the main forecast period ends. It's a quick heads-up, not a detailed prediction.
Context Anchor
Seen in text aviation weather forecasts, especially older Area Forecasts, near the end of the forecast after the main clouds-and-weather section.
Derivation
From the everyday English word 'outlook,' meaning a view of what is to come. The aviation use keeps that same idea — a glance further ahead than the detailed forecast covers.
Why Pilots Care
The outlook helps pilots anticipate weather changes that may affect later legs of a flight or require schedule adjustments.
Intuition Check
Outlook here does not mean a personal attitude or opinion. It means a short aviation weather forecast for a later time period.
Example Sentence 1
The TAF's main forecast ended at 1800Z, but the OTLK indicated VFR conditions continuing through the evening.
Example Sentence 2
Review the OTLK section to see weather expected beyond the six-hour forecast window.