Definition
A National Weather Service forecast product that predicts wind direction (in degrees true) and wind speed (in knots), along with temperature, at specified altitudes above selected reporting stations for a given valid time period.
Plain English
A forecast that tells you which way the wind will be blowing, how strong it will be, and how cold it will be at different heights above the ground at certain places and times.
Context Anchor
Seen during preflight weather planning, especially when choosing an altitude and estimating time and fuel for a route.
Derivation
"Aloft" comes from Old Norse "a lopt," meaning "in the air" or "up high." In aviation it specifically means above the surface, at flight altitudes — distinguishing these forecasts from surface wind reports.
Why Pilots Care
It directly affects how long a flight will take, how much fuel will be needed, and which altitude offers the best performance.
Grounding Statement
The wind can be light at the runway but much stronger a few thousand feet above it.
Intuition Check
Do not assume this means surface wind at the airport. “Aloft” means above the surface, at listed altitudes.
Example Sentence 1
Before the cross-country, she checked the winds aloft forecast and picked 6,000 feet because the tailwind was strongest at that altitude.
Example Sentence 2
Strong headwinds shown in the winds aloft forecast caused the flight to depart earlier than originally planned.