Definition
A SNOWTAM is a specific format of NOTAM that reports the presence or removal of hazardous winter conditions on an airport's runways, taxiways, and aprons. It conveys details such as contaminant type (snow, slush, ice, standing water), depth, coverage, and runway braking conditions, and is used to alert pilots to surface conditions that affect takeoff, landing, and ground handling.
Plain English
A short notice that tells pilots about snow, ice, slush, or water on the runways and taxiways at an airport, including how slippery the surface is.
Context Anchor
Seen in NOTAM information before a flight, especially when checking conditions at an airport during winter weather.
Derivation
A blend of 'snow' and 'NOTAM.' NOTAM stands for Notice to Air Missions (formerly Notice to Airmen). The 'snow' prefix simply tells you this NOTAM is specifically about winter surface conditions.
Why Pilots Care
It directly affects runway braking action and the decision to operate or divert.
Grounding Statement
If winter weather has left a runway slippery or partly covered, a SNOWTAM is one official way that condition is reported to pilots.
Intuition Check
SNOWTAM does not mean a general weather forecast for snow. It is about reported conditions on airport operating surfaces caused by snow, ice, slush, frost, or related water.
Example Sentence 1
Before departing for a winter flight to Buffalo, the pilot reviewed the SNOWTAM and noted that the runway had compacted snow with poor braking action.
Example Sentence 2
After the runway was plowed, a new SNOWTAM was issued showing improved conditions.