Definition
A contraction used in NOTAMs and aviation text to indicate something that came before the current item — typically a prior NOTAM, forecast, report, or condition that is being referenced or replaced.
Plain English
Short for 'previous.' It points back to something earlier — usually an earlier message, report, or condition.
Context Anchor
Seen in aviation shorthand, especially in notices, briefings, and other compact text where words are shortened to save space.
Derivation
Previous comes from Latin words meaning “going before.” PREV is a shortened written form of that word, keeping the idea of something that came before the present item.
Why Pilots Care
When PREV appears in a NOTAM, it usually means the current message is updating or cancelling something earlier. Knowing what was previously in effect helps you understand what has actually changed.
Intuition Check
PREV does not mean “prevent.” In this context, it means “previous” — the one before the current one.
Example Sentence 1
The new NOTAM stated that runway 09 was now open, cancelling the PREV closure notice.
Example Sentence 2
The PREV NOTAM has been canceled and replaced by a new one.