Definition
A TAF AMD is a Terminal Aerodrome Forecast that has been re-issued before its scheduled update time because conditions at the airport have changed, or are expected to change, in a way that makes the original forecast no longer accurate. The amended forecast replaces the previous TAF for that airport and is identified by the letters AMD inserted after the TAF header.
Plain English
An updated airport weather forecast issued early because the original one no longer matches what is happening or what is expected. When you see AMD, treat the new forecast as the one to use and ignore the older version.
Context Anchor
Seen in TAF weather reports before a flight, especially when checking current forecast information for departure, destination, or alternate airports.
Derivation
AMD is short for 'amended,' from the Latin emendare, meaning 'to correct' or 'to free from fault.' The label flags that the forecast has been corrected, not just updated on schedule.
Why Pilots Care
Provides the most current forecast so pilots can adjust routes, alternates, or departure times for safety.
Intuition Check
Amended does not mean the forecast is optional or just slightly edited. It means the official forecast has been changed, and the amended version is the one to use.
Example Sentence 1
During the preflight briefing, the pilot noticed a TAF AMD had been issued for the destination, lowering the forecast ceiling to 800 feet.
Example Sentence 2
Reviewing the TAF AMD helped the crew select a better alternate airport with improved visibility.