What does an AIRMET advisory specifically address?

An AIRMET (Airman’s Meteorological Information) advisory specifically addresses significant weather phenomena that are of lower intensity than SIGMETs (Significant Meteorological Information). AIRMETs are intended to provide information to pilots about conditions that could affect flight safety, including turbulence, icing, and restrictions to visibility that are not severe enough to warrant a SIGMET.

The purpose of AIRMETs is to alert pilots to potentially hazardous weather conditions that may impact their flights, even if these conditions do not reach the severity required to issue a SIGMET. This ensures that pilots remain informed and can make necessary adjustments to their operations based on the conditions reported in the advisory. By addressing phenomena that are still significant but comparatively mild, AIRMETs fulfill an essential role in flight safety.

While low visibility and turbulence, as well as severe weather, are important considerations for pilots, AIRMETs focus specifically on the less severe weather conditions. High altitude weather conditions could be covered by different reporting systems, like upper air reports or specific forecasts. Thus, the focus on lower intensity weather phenomena distinguishes AIRMETs from other meteorological advisories.