Definition

A Meteorological Watch Office (MWO) continuously monitors the Met conditions affecting flight operations within its area of responsibility and issues warnings concerning the occurrence or expected occurrence of specified weather phenomena with the potential to affect en route operations. [CAP 782)

Key functions

Key functions of a MWO:

• Continuous monitoring: Maintains a constant watch on weather patterns impacting flight operations.
• Warnings: Issues SIGMETs (Significant Meteorological Information) for en-route phenomena not in routine forecasts, crucial for low-level flights.
• Aviation Support: Supplies Terminal Aerodrome Forecasts (TAFs) and other data for pilots, aircraft and aerodrome operators and air traffic control.
• Defined area of responsibility: Covers a specific geographical region or flight information region.

As an example, the UK MWO is responsible for the issuance of SIGMET to the London and Scottish FIRs as well as the Shanwick Oceanic Control Area (OCA). Volcanic Ash SIGMET is based on information supplied by the VAAC London.

Further Reading

• CAP 782 - Regulation of the aeronautical meteorological services