Aviation Meteorological Services

Weather forecast continues to be a challenge in providing accurate forecast for aviation sector. In order to contribute towards the safety, economy and efficiency of air navigation, NCHM make meteorological observations and forecasts through establishment of sustained monitoring and warning systems as per the standards and guidelines provided by World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

The aviation met services came as an additional mandate to the center. The DoAT has transferred the mandates, functions, responsibilities and services of aviation met section to NCHM on 17th August 2017. The NCHM lacks in capacity, expertise and basic equipment thereby compromising the safety of the flight operations. NCHM is now the designated Aeronautical Meteorological Service Provider (AMSP) within Bhutan, which is responsible in all matters related to Aviation Meteorological Services.

Within the NCHM, Aviation Met Section (AMS) is a section under Weather and Climate Services Division (WCSD) with the mandate to provide operational meteorological information for safe, regular and efficient air navigation within Bhutan. It provide information to the Paro International Airport (PIA) and the three domestic airports in Gelephu, Bumthang and Yongphula.

The center issue aeronautical meteorological observation information and has plan to provide aeronautical meteorological forecast and warning, as well as the SIGnificant METeorological Information (SIGMET) in future.