Attachment 5 - 306 FTGI 15-101 dated 24 Mar 2022.pdf

BY ORDER OF THE COMMANDER 306 FTG INSTRUCTION 15-101

306TH FLYING TRAINING GROUP (AETC) 24 March, 2022

Weather

USAFA WEATHER SUPPORT

COMPLIANCE WITH THIS PUBLICATION IS MANDATORY

ACCESSIBILITY: This publication is available digitally in the 306 FTG Stan/Eval Publication Library https://sharepoint.usafa.edu/306ftg/ftgv/frst/Reference%20Library/Forms/AllItems.aspx

RELEASIBILITY: There are no restrictions on this publication’s release.

OPR: 306 OSS/OSW Certified by: 306 FTG/CD

(Lt Col Inscoe) Supersedes: 306 FTGI 15-101, Pages: 95 18 July, 2019

This instruction implements Air Force Policy Directive (AFPD) 15-1, Air Force Weather Operations.

This publication establishes weather support responsibilities and procedures. It provides general information for weather services, including weather observations and forecasts; weather watches, warnings, and advisories; space weather data; information dissemination and base-wide reciprocal support. This instruction is an installation publication that applies to all units assigned and attached to United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) including tenant units. Refer recommended changes and questions about this publication to the Office of Primary Responsibility (OPR) using AF Form 847, Recommendation for Change of Publication. Send AF Forms 847 to 306 FTG Standardization/Evaluation (306 FTG/FTGV), 9206 Airfield Drive, Suite 1, USAFA, CO 80840. The authorities to waive requirements in this publication are identified with a Tier 3 (T-3) number following the compliance statement. See DAFI 33-360, Publications and Forms Management, for a description of the authorities associated with the Tier numbers. Submit requests for waivers through the chain of command to the appropriate Tier waiver approval authority. The waiver authority for non-tiered requirements in this publication is the 306 OSS/CC. Ensure all records created as a result of processes prescribed in this publication are maintained in accordance with Air Force Manual (AF1) 33-322, Records Management and Information Governance Program, and disposed of in accordance with the Air Force Records Information Management System (AFRIMS) Records Disposition Schedule (RDS) located at https://afrims.cce.af.mil/afrims/rims.cfm. See Attachment 1 for a glossary of references and supporting information used in this publication.

SUMMARY OF CHANGES

Chapter 1—GENERAL INFORMATION 6

1.1. General

1.2. Designators……

1.3. Assumptions, Shortfalls and Limitations

1.4. 306 Operations Support Squadron (OSS)/Weather Flight (OSW) Duty Priorities

1.5. Geographic Area of Responsibility

1.6. Primary Operating Location, Hours of Operation, and Contact Information

1.7. Requesting Weather Support

1.8. Weather Operations

1.9. Release of Weather Information

1.10. Reports for Legal Claims

1.11. USAFA Airfield

1.12. Bullseye Auxiliary Airfield

1.13. Aardvark Airstrip

1.14. Contract Quality Assurance

1.15. Official Complaints……

1.16. 306 OSS/OSW Security Requirements

1.17. Air Force Records Management Program

Chapter 2—AIRFIELD SERVICES ELEMENT 11

2.1. General

2.2. Airfield Support Function

2.3. Airfield Weather Observations

2.4. Continuous and Basic Weather Watch

2.5. Dissemination of Weather Observations

2.6. Backup Dissemination Procedures

2.7. Weather Watch……

2.8. USAFA High Wind Alert System

2.9. USAFA Terminal Aerodrome Forecast (TAF)

2.10. Pilot Reports (PIREP)

2.11. METWATCH

Chapter 3—MISSION WEATHER ELEMENT 16

3.1. General

3.2. Operational Hours

3.3. Mission Integration Function

3.4. Local Flying Area

3.5. Weather Impacts on Supported Organizations

3.6. USAFA 7-Day Forecast Outlook

3.7. Mission Weather Product (MWP)

3.8. Mission Execution Forecast (MEF)

3.9. Mission Watch………

3.10. Off-Station Support for 306 FTG Aircraft

3.11. Flight Weather Briefings

3.12. Space Weather

Chapter 4—STAFF WEATHER ELEMENT 19

4.1. General

4.2. Senior Staff Weather Briefings

4.3. USAFA Emergency Operations Center (EOC) Briefings

4.4. 306 FTG Deployment Weather Support

4.5. Mobility Concept Briefing

4.6. Ice and Snow Control Briefings

4.7. Air Traffic Control (ATC) Weather Orientation and Training

4.8. Supervisor of Flying (SOF) Continuation Training (CT) Briefings

4.9. SOF Orientation Briefings

4.10. Weather Hazard Briefings

4.11. USAFA Inspector General Exercise Support

4.12. USAFA Aero Club Seasonal Weather Briefings

4.13. Quarterly Airfield Operations Board (AOB) Meetings

4.14. USAFA Climatology Support

4.15. Flight Information Publications (FLIP) Updates

4.16. Recall Roster

4.17. Automated Meteorological Observing System (AMOS) Station Information File

4.18. Standard Clock

4.19. Weather Support Documentation

4.20. Performance Assessment

Chapter 5—EMERGENCY ACTIONS 22

5.1. General

5.2. Alternate Operating Location (Continuity of Operations Program – COOP)

Table 5.1. Agencies / Personnel Notified of Change in Operating Location

5.3. Aircraft Emergencies

5.4. Severe Weather Action Plan (SWAP)

5.5. Operational Report (OPREP)

5.6. Backup Support to 25th Operational Weather Squadron (OWS) (COOP)

5.7. Backup Generator Power for Building 9206

Chapter 6—RESOURCE PROTECTION 26

6.1. General

6.2. Dissemination

6.3. Unit Requirements

6.4. Weather Watches

Table 6.1. USAFA Weather Watch Criteria

6.5. Weather Warnings

Table 6.2. USAFA Forecast Weather Warnings and Desired Lead Times

6.6. Observed Weather Warnings

Table 6.3. USAFA Observed Weather Warnings for Lightning

6.7. Weather Advisories

Table 6.4. USAFA Weather Advisory Criteria and Desired Lead Times

6.8. Base Closure, Delayed Reporting, or Early Release due to Heavy Snow

6.9. Base Siren Activation and Giant Voice

6.10. Tropical Weather Activity

6.11. Volcanic Ash

6.12. Actions by Base Agencies

Chapter 7—WEATHER AND COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEMS 33

7.1. General

7.2. Weather and Communications Systems Outage Reporting

7.3. Meteorological (Weather) Equipment

7.4. Communications Equipment

7.5. Equipment Maintenance

Table 7.1. Equipment Maintenance Responsibilities

Table 7.2. Equipment Restoral Priorities and Response Times

Chapter 8—RECIPROCAL SUPPORT 37

8.1. General

8.2. USAFA RPA Director (USAFA/DFEI)

8.3. USAFA Plans and Programs (USAFA/XP)

8.4. Colorado Springs Regional Command Post (CSRCP)

8.5. 10th Security Forces Squadron (10 SFS)

8.6. 10th Civil Engineer Squadron (10 CES)

8.7. 10th Communications Squadron (10 CS)

8.8. 21st Space Operations Support Squadron (21 OSS/MA), Peterson AFB, CO

8.9. 306 FTG SOF

8.10. 94 FTS, 98 FTS, and 557 FTS

8.11. 306 OSS Director of Operations

8.12. 306 OSS/OSAA (Airfield Management)

8.13. 306 OSS/OSAT (Air Traffic Control)

Attachment 1 GLOSSARY OF REFERENCES, SUPPORTING INFORMATION

Attachment 2 306 OSS/OSW DUTY PRIORITIES

Attachment 3 25 OWS POINTS OF CONTACT, DUTY PRIORITIES

Attachment 4 SPECIAL (SPECI) WEATHER OBSERVATION CRITERIA

Attachment 5 306 OSS COOPERATIVE WEATHER WATCH

Attachment 6 HWAS Sensor Map

Attachment 7 94 FTS MISSION-LIMITING THRESHOLDS

Attachment 8 98 FTS MISSION-LIMITING THRESHOLDS

Attachment 9 557 FTS MISSION-LIMITING THRESHOLDS

Attachment 10 USAFA, 10 ABW MISSION-LIMITING THRESHOLDS

Attachment 11 USAFA 7-DAY FORECAST OUTLOOK

Attachment 12 MISSION EXECUTION FORECAST (MEF)

Attachment 13 SEVERE WEATHER NOTIFICATION

Attachment 14 TAF SPECIFICATION AND AMENDMENT CRITERIA

Chapter 1

GENERAL INFORMATION

1.1. General.

1.1.1. The 306 OSS/OSW, also referred to as USAFA Weather (or Base Weather Station) is the primary agency for providing or arranging weather support and services to the 306 FTG, USAFA, 10th Air Base Wing (10 ABW) and other units assigned to USAFA. Basic concepts, guidance, and procedures are outlined in applicable Air Force (AF), Air Education and Training Command (AETC), and USAFA directives, this instruction, the meteorological services contract, and the corresponding Installation Data Page agreement between 306 OSS/OSW and 25 OWS.

1.1.2. This instruction establishes weather station operations, support requirements and procedures for USAFA which must be coordinated to ensure local mission needs are identified and met. It consolidates requirements and procedures for peacetime operations (only) and eliminates the need for written agreements between the weather unit and supported operations. It does not cover emergency wartime or special operations, which are covered in other plans and guidance.

1.2. Designators.

1.2.1. “KAFF” is the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) location identifier for USAFA. All weather products disseminated by or for USAFA will use KAFF as the ICAO location designator. The corresponding World Meteorological Organization index number is 745310.

1.2.2. “KABH” is the ICAO location identifier used for weather products for Bullseye Auxiliary Airfield (FAA designation: CO90) near Ellicott, CO.

1.3. Assumptions, Shortfalls, and Limitations. Adequate resources, including communications, will be available to execute this instruction. Sufficient weather intelligence will be available from various military and non-military sources on which to base weather operations and production.

1.3.1. 306 OSS/OSW is susceptible to a myriad of systems outages that could cause a wide range of changes in mission capability. Typical outages do not last more than a few hours and do not cause significant degradations in mission capability.

1.3.2. The airfield utilizes an Automatic Meteorological Station, AN/FMQ-19, which cannot detect and report every change as it occurs due to weather sensor limitations and software algorithms. See paragraph 2.3.3.2. for more details on limitations.

1.4. 306 OSS/OSW Duty Priorities. All base weather station tasks cannot be accomplished simultaneously. 306 OSS/OSW duty priorities, listed in Attachment 2 ensure tasks are accomplished in order of relative importance and promote understanding among supported agencies. Duty priorities ensure more timely response under routine conditions; however, the list does not replace good judgment. Station personnel may deviate from the duty priority list in the interest of safety.

1.5. Geographic Areas of Responsibility. 306 OSS/OSW provides weather support products and services for multiple mission areas. The, “Airfield,” is defined as the 5 Nautical Mile (NM) radius around the center of the Benjamin O. Davis airfield at USAFA. Other mission areas include the Cadet Area, the Preparatory School, and the Jack’s Valley Training Complex (JVTC) including the inactive Aardvark Airstrip. The 306 FTG local flying area encompasses an 80 NM radius from the USAFA Airfield and includes Bullseye Auxiliary Airfield. 306 OSS/OSW also provides mission-tailored support for flying areas and drop zones used by units assigned or attached to USAFA and deployed to other locations.

1.6. Primary Operating Location, Hours of Operation, and Contact Information.

1.6.1. 306 OSS/OSW is located in the northwest corner of the 306 FTG building (9206) which is located on the east side of Davis Airfield.

1.6.2. The mailing address is 306 OSS/OSW, 9206 Airfield Drive, USAF Academy, CO 80840.

1.6.3. The telephone number is DSN 333-2058/2059 or commercial (719) 333-2058/2059.

1.6.4. The organizational email address is: 306oss.osw@us.af.mil.

1.6.5. The external homepage address is: https://hwas.usafa.edu/weather/.

1.6.6. Staff weather services are available Monday – Friday, typically from 0600L to 1400L, but are flexible with prior notice.

1.6.7. Weather services are provided to 306 FTG and USAFA 24 hours per day, 7 days per week.

1.6.8. In the event that 306 OSS/OSW is closed or has activated their Continuity of Operations Procedures, the 25 OWS will provide backup support and will become the primary source for weather support to 306 FTG and USAFA during such periods.

1.6.9. Meteorological services are considered mission essential. In the event the installation is closed due to inclement weather or other causes in which the installation commander has declared only mission essential personnel are required, the contractor shall continue to operate unless told otherwise by the COR or the Functional Commander. The contractor shall notify the COR in the event the contractor cannot travel to the installation due to road closures or hazardous travel conditions. The contractor is required to maintain a Mission-Essential Contractor Services Plan detailing provisions for the acquisition of essential personnel and resources to maintain continuity of operations for up to 30 days in a crisis.

1.7. Requesting Weather Support. Organizations should contact 306 OSS/OSW at (719) 333- 2058/2059, by email (306oss.osw@usafa.af.mil), or via Microsoft TEAMS (.mil or .edu) regarding one-time, temporary or recurring weather support requirements. Many temporary or new weather support requirements can be met through existing weather services and products.

1.8. Weather Operations.

1.8.1. Worldwide Weather Information. Air Force Weather-Web Services (AFW-WEBS) is a portal to worldwide weather information. AFW-WEBS is located at https://weather.af.mil/AFW_WEBS/. Users must register and have a CAC to gain access to the site.

1.8.2. 306 OSS/OSW. The 306 OSS/OSW Weather Flight provides automated surface weather observations for Davis Airfield, USAFA, and Bullseye Auxiliary Airfield, a Mission Execution Forecast (MEF), Terminal Aerodrome Forecast (TAF), base resource protection support (warnings, watches and advisories), as well as duplicating in-garrison type support for off-station 306 FTG flying squadron’s operations. 306 OSS/OSW provides a direct interface between the 306 FTG, USAFA organizations, and the 1 WG, Air Force Combat Climatology Center and regionally responsible Operational Weather Squadrons (OWS). 306 OSS/OSW integrates weather sensor, radar, satellite, lightning, and High Wind Alert System (HWAS) data along with a wide array of meteorological models, to create a full-spectrum weather picture for supported agencies. The 306 OSS/OSW weather flight is organized into three interlinked functions: Airfield Support Function, Mission Integration Function, and Staff Integration Function.

1.8.3. 25 OWS. OWSs are regional centers of expertise providing theater support, aviation services, and overwatch functions in support of WF/Dets within their primary geographical area of interest.

OWSs conduct operations as distributed nodes in the production enterprise and provide weather analyses and forecasts for AF, Army, Joint, Coalition and Allied partners operations within the geographical combatant commands.

1.8.4. Installation Data Page. The Installation Data Page (IDP) is the governing document outlining and delegating 306 FTG and USAFA’s support obligations between 25 OWS and 306 OSS/OSW.

The IDP replaced the 25 OWS-306 OSS Memorandum of Agreement (MOA).

1.8.4.1. USAFA Installation Data Page (IDP). The 25 OWS will coordinate and maintain a USAFA IDP detailing the following: TAF specification and amendment criteria, WWA thresholds and desired lead times, mission impacts, unit information, Joint Environmental Toolkit (JET) back-up contacts and local outage back-up information.

1.9. Release of Weather Information. Weather information will not be released to the general public except as authorized by the USAFA Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) office, USAFA/A6O, (719) 333-6231. The USAFA FOIA office may task 306 OSS/OSW to provide the requested weather information.

1.9.1. 306 OSS/OSW does not provide weather services to non-Department of Defense (DoD) agencies unless imminent danger of life or property is involved. The National Weather Service Forecast Office in Pueblo, CO is responsible for providing weather services to the general public.

1.10. Reports for Legal Claims. 306 OSS/OSW will respond to requests for weather information for use in legal actions if the request is submitted in writing or email through USAFA/JA.

1.11. USAFA Airfield. The USAFA Airfield is a Visual Flight Rules (VFR) airfield. There is no instrument landing system, no airfield lighting system, and no runway visual range weather equipment.

1.11.1. The USAFA Airfield has three parallel Runways, 16-Right/34-Left, 16/34-Center, and 16- Left/34-Right. In addition, crosswind Runway 08/26 is used primarily for aircraft recoveries.

1.11.2. The Sailplane Landing Area (SPLA) is located to the immediate west of Runway 16- Right/34-Left.

1.11.3. The Parachuting Drop Zone is located to the immediate west of the SPLA.

1.12. Bullseye Auxiliary Airfield. Bullseye Auxiliary Airfield is located approximately 27 miles southeast of the USAFA Airfield and approximately 8 miles east of Schriever Air Force Base (AFB).

The Bullseye Auxiliary Airfield runway is oriented 17/35, and is uncontrolled.

1.13. Aardvark Airstrip. Located approximately 4 miles north of the USAFA Airfield. The Aardvark Airstrip is oriented 17/35. It is an uncontrolled airstrip.

1.14. Contract Quality Assurance. The Commander, 306 OSS, serves as the functional commander for the meteorological services contract. The commander develops and maintains the contract requirements package and assigns a Contract Officer Representative (COR). 306 FTG COR personnel assess contractor performance against contracted performance standards in the Performance Work Statement (PWS).

1.15. Comments and Concerns. 306 OSS/OSW’s customers should direct official complaints to the Weather COR, DSN 333-2566.

1.16. 306 OSS/OSW Security Requirements.

1.16.1. Contractor Identification Badge. 306 OSS/OSW obtain USAFA contractor identification badges through the 10th Security Forces Squadron (10 SFS) Visitor Control Center located at USAFA’s South Gate facilities. All USAFA contractor badges are returned to the Weather COR upon termination of employment.

1.17. Air Force Records Management Program. 306 OSS/OSW must designate a Chief of Records (COR) and Records Custodian (RC) to the 10 CS/SCXSCR Records Manager in accordance with AFI 33-322, Records Management Program. The 306 OSS/OSW COR and RC attend 10 CS provided Air Force Records Management Program training as required. 306 OSS/OSW contractors shall:

1.17.1. Maintain an approved Files Maintenance and Disposition Plan.

1.17.2. Maintain copies of weather products, weather communications systems, and weather product development systems information in accordance with AFI 33-322 and Air Force RDS.

Chapter 2

AIRFIELD SERVICES ELEMENT

2.1. General. Airfield Services Element (ASE) supports Davis Airfield and/or USAFA as a whole.

Services include, but are not limited to weather observations, TAFs, resource protection products (detailed in Chapter 6), and USAFA’s 7-day Forecast (https://hwas.usafa.edu/weather/sevendayupdate.cfm) as outlined below.

2.2. Airfield Services Function. This function is comprised of the Airfield Services meteorologist.

The Airfield Services meteorologist maintains situational awareness of local weather conditions and AN/FMQ-19 observations during airfield operating hours. Airfield Support meteorologists also monitor area observations and forecast products remaining aware of changes likely to impact Davis Airfield and/or USAFA. Responsibilities and tasks are listed below.

2.3. Airfield Weather Observations. 306 OSS/OSW takes, records, and disseminates weather observations in accordance with AFMAN15-111. The AN/FMQ-19 is the AF standard system for taking and disseminating observations. Airfield Services meteorologists provide augmentation and backup for the system only when required. In the automated mode, the AN/FMQ-19 continually senses and reports the following weather elements: wind, visibility, precipitation, obstruction to vision, cloud height, sky cover, temperature, dew point, altimeter setting, clarifying remarks and additive data. (Key notes: automated systems, including the AN/FMQ-19, report weather elements over a more limited area compared to human observers. Typically, this area is the take-off/touchdown end of the active runway, as compared to the entire celestial dome. Automated systems produce observations every minute and use time-averaging of elements for more consistent observations.)

KAFF weather observations are available via Joint Environmental Toolkit (JET), the Airfield Automation System (AFAS), and various weather sites on the Internet.

2.3.1. Types of Observations. IAW AFMAN15-111, three types of observations are available at USAFA: METARs, SPECIs, and LOCALs. All human derived observations are taken from the designated official point of observation. (See paragraph 2.3.2.).

2.3.1.1. Aviation Routine Weather Report (METAR). A METAR is a regularly scheduled observation taken and disseminated every hour between 55 - 59 minutes after the hour. Every report includes wind data, visibility, present weather, sky condition, temperature, dew point, pressure, clarifying remarks and additive data. A METAR observation may also indicate special weather criteria were met during the given observation period.

2.3.1.2. Aviation Selected Special Weather Report (SPECI). A SPECI is an unscheduled observation taken and disseminated when any special criteria in AFMAN15-111, including locally determined criteria, have been sensed or observed. SPECI reports will be prepared and transmitted as soon as possible after the relevant criteria are observed. SPECI weather observation criteria are listed in Attachment 4.

2.3.1.3. Aviation Selected Local Weather Report (LOCAL). A LOCAL is an unscheduled observation taken and disseminated that otherwise do not meet SPECI criteria. The AN/FMQ-19 records a full-element observation every minute, and shall be provided in lieu of LOCAL observation dissemination.

2.3.2. Official Points of Observation.

2.3.2.1. USAFA Airfield. The official points of weather observation on the USAFA Airfield are the AN/FMQ-19, Automatic Meteorological Station, primary sensor group, located just south of the Air Traffic Control Tower (ATCT) parking lot, and discontinuity Sensor Groups (Wind Towers) located north of the USAFA ATCT, and at Runway 26. When human augmentation is required the point of observation is outside the northwest corner of building 9206.

2.3.2.1.1. Observation Site Limitations. The field of view from the official observation point outside the northwest corner of building 9206 is limited to the northeast through southeast due to buildings and hangars. The view of the center and west runways is partially restricted due to sloping ground towards Monument Creek. Observations may be taken from the tower and/or roof of building 9207.

2.3.2.2. Bullseye Auxiliary Airfield. The official point of weather observation at Bullseye Auxiliary Airfield is the AN/FMQ-22 Fixed Base Weather Observing System (FMQ-22), primary sensor group, located on the east side of the runway at midfield.

2.3.2.2.1. Observation Site Limitations. The FMQ-22 cannot detect and report every weather change as it occurs due to software algorithms, weather sensor sensitivities, etc. There are no certified weather personnel present at Bullseye Auxiliary Airfield to provide augmentation to automated FMQ-22 observations.

2.3.3. AN/FMQ-19 Operations. ASE meteorologists operate the AN/FMQ-19 automated meteorological observing system in accordance with AFMAN15-111. The AN/FMQ-19 is a proven system; however, limitations exist. When on duty, ASE meteorologists augment the observations during severe or operationally significant weather periods, and whenever unrepresentative readings occur due to sensor limitations.

2.3.3.1. Augmentation. Augmentation is the process of having position-certified personnel manually add (i.e., supplement), or edit (i.e., back-up) data generated by the AN/FMQ-19. During augmentation, the ASE meteorologist performs a Basic Weather Watch. When a system sensor is no longer working properly, the ASE meteorologist will report the outage. The meteorologist will input, correct, or delete weather elements in the observation until the outage is resolved.

2.3.3.2. Limitations. The following are known limitations of the AN/FMQ-19 and AN/FMQ-22 systems. When on-duty, 306 OSS/OSW personnel will augment the AN/FMQ-19 when any of the following limitations occur:

2.3.3.2.1. Automated systems cannot “observe” tornadoes, funnel clouds, hail, volcanic ash, snow depth or smoke, and often observes freezing precipitation when none is occurring.

2.3.3.2.2. Visibility and ceilometer sensor readings may not be representative of actual visibility and ceiling height conditions when these elements are rapidly changing due to the system’s reliance on averaging sensor readings.

2.3.3.2.3. Precipitation identification sensor may generate false precipitation readings. False events are typically caused by birds perching on the sensor, pollen or dust on lenses, insect swarms or blowing snow. The problem usually disappears quickly after maintenance technicians clean the lenses. If the problem is related to insects, false readings may persist for a week or more.

2.3.3.2.4. Visibility sensor may generate a rapid visibility change, up or down, when the actual visibility is unchanged. These events are usually caused by a buildup of dust or pollen on the sensor lenses. The limitation disappears quickly after maintenance technicians clean the lenses.

2.3.3.2.5. The lightning detection system does not accurately display distance and direction of lightning strikes on the Joint Environmental Toolkit (JET) Automated Sensor Display (ASD) portlet.

2.3.3.3. USAFA Weather Observation Remarks and Additive Data. The ASE meteorologist provides augmentation and back-up of mandatory remarks and additive data in accordance with AFMAN15- 111.

2.4. Continuous and Basic Weather Watch. The AN/FMQ-19 in automated mode performs a Continuous Weather Watch. 306 OSS/OSW conducts a Basic Weather Watch when the AN/FMQ-19 requires augmentation. During a Basic Weather Watch, ASE meteorologists will visually monitor weather conditions at least every 20 minutes.

2.5. Dissemination of Weather Observations. JET is the primary means of dissemination for observations.

2.6. Backup Dissemination Procedures.

2.6.1. 306 OSS/OSW is susceptible to a myriad of communication and system outages that may cause a wide range of support limitations. Typical outages do not last longer than a few hours. The possibility exists for 306 OSS/OSW to lose total support capability due to weather system or network failures, or from an evacuation. 306 OSS/OSW does not possess adequate resources to completely eliminate all limitations during outages or evacuations, however, 306 OSS/OSW has established back-up procedures that meet as many requirements as possible.

2.6.2. When JET is inoperative 306 OSS/OSW disseminates Davis Airfield weather observations via phone, email, Microsoft Teams, or local printers to the offices listed below. Dissemination of weather products is maintained on a Local Dissemination Log and/or by using AF Forms 3806, 3807 depending on the type of outage.

2.6.2.1. 306 OSS/OSAT.

2.6.2.2. 306 FTG Supervisor of Flying (SOF).

2.6.2.3. 94 FTS Operations Supervisor and/or Soaring Control Officer (SCO).

2.6.2.4. 98 FTS Drop Zone Control Officer (DZCO).

2.6.2.5. 557 FTS Operations Supervisor (Ops Sup).

2.6.2.6. Colorado Springs Regional Command Post. (Resource Protection Only)

2.6.2.7. 25 OWS.

2.7. Cooperative Weather Watch. 306 OSS/OSW will conduct a cooperative weather watch in accordance with AFI 13-204, Volume 3, Airfield Operations Procedures and Programs, AFMAN15- 111, and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Joint Order (JO) 7110.65W. 306 OSS Cooperative Weather Watch responsibilities are outlined in Attachment 5.

2.8. USAFA’s High Wind Alert System (HWAS). The HWAS is a MESONET consisting of a processor-server, monitor, and 12 automated weather stations. A map of each sensor location can be found in Attachment 6. Nine stations are located on USAFA. HWAS is a critically important tool when forecasting gusty winds, low-level wind shear, turbulence, and inversion break times, aircraft icing conditions, wind-chill temperatures, and heat stress. Weather information is refreshed every two minutes. HWAS readout is located at https://hwas.usafa.edu/. Detailed information on each USAFA HWAS station is in Chapter 7.

2.9. USAFA Terminal Aerodrome Forecast (TAF).

2.9.1. USAFA TAF. USAFA TAFs are routinely produced and disseminated by 306 OSS/OSW only when 306 FTG flight operations are occurring. 306 OSS/OSW will develop a TAF production cycle for KAFF and coordinate TAF issue times with supported units. The TAF encompasses a 30-hour forecast valid period, and is issued at least one hour prior to the start of 306 FTG operations. TAFs are issued at least every 8 hours, between the top of the hour to 15 minutes past. The TAF will be encoded IAW AFMAN15-124, Meteorological Codes, and disseminated via JET. TAFs will not be disseminated more than 3 hours prior to the airfield opening unless previously coordinated with supported units and documented in the Installation Data Page. TAFs are intended for flight planning and command and control activities only. For mission execution forecasts, please use the 306 OSS/OSW produced Mission Execution Forecasts (MEF). MEFs are considered the official forecast for mission execution purposes IAW AFMAN 15-129. An example TAF can be found in table 2.1 below, and specification and amendment criteria are found in attachment 14.

Table 2.1. Example Terminal Aerodrome Forecast (TAF)

TAF KAFF 161902Z 1619/1801 16012KT 9999 VCTS SCT080CB BKN120 QNH3006INS

DRY MICROBURST CONDS EXIST

TEMPO 1620/1624 VRB25G45KT -TSRA

BECMG 1700/1701 22009KT 9999 NSW SCT100 QNH3006INS

BECMG 1709/1710 02009KT 9999 FEW100 WS010/27035KT QNH3012INS WND 250V090

BECMG 1717/1718 21012KT 9999 SCT120 510004 QNH3006INS WND 160V240

BECMG 1719/1720 21012KT 9999 VCSH SCT120 510004 QNH3004INS DRY

MICROBURST CONDS EXIST

TEMPO 1720/1723 VRB30G50KT TX34/1719Z TN12/1711Z LAST NO AMDS AFT 1701

NEXT 1711

2.9.1.1. The area covered by the TAF is a radius of 5 statute miles from the center-point of Davis Airfield. The use of the term “vicinity” (abbreviated “VC” in the text of the forecast) refers to an area between 5 and 10 statute miles from the center-point of the airfield.

2.9.1.2. The lowest published airfield minimum differs from AFMAN 15-129 standard TAF criteria because Davis Airfield is VFR only. The TAF is encoded in accordance with AFMAN 15-124, Chapter 1, Air Force Weather TAF Code. Help with TAF decoding can be found in AFH11-203V2, Weather for Aircrews – Products and Services.

2.10. Pilot Reports (PIREP). 306 OSS/OSW will encode and disseminate PIREPs IAW AFMAN 15-124. Nearly all official PIREPs are relayed to 306 OSS/OSW by Tower Controllers, flying squadron Operations Supervisors or 306 FTG SOF.

2.11. METWATCH. METWATCH is the deliberate and continuous process of monitoring both observed and forecast weather conditions with the explicit purpose of identifying when and where actual conditions diverge from forecast. 306 OSS/OSW personnel will develop procedures to update and amend forecast products while advising supported units (e.g. SOF, 94 FTS Ops Sup, Athletic Dept.) of specific weather conditions and expected impacts to flight operations or the overall safety of personnel, infrastructure and material.

2.11.1. “Eyes Forward” – Collaboration Function.

2.11.1.1. During severe weather events 306 OSS/OSW will relay significant meteorological information to 25 OWS forecasters.

Chapter 3

MISSION WEATHER ELEMENT

3.1. General. Mission Weather Element (MWE) are those actions directly related to integrating with and supporting 306 FTG aviation missions (e.g., MEFs, SOF Briefings, weather liaison, and flight weather briefings). The MEF and weather liaison procedures are the primary tools used to accomplish these tasks.

3.2. Operational Hours. MWE services are provided during 306 FTG flying hours. MWE support required outside normal 306 FTG flying hours must be coordinated with the contract weather supervisor.

3.3. Mission Weather Function. The Mission Weather function consists of the 306 OSS/OSW MWE meteorologist and any 306 OSS/OSW member conducting mission services. The MWE meteorologist performs a Meteorological Mission Watch (MISSIONWATCH), focused primarily on parachuting, soaring, powered flight, RPA and CW missions, including training areas, alternate airfields, and athletic events within the local area. The MWE meteorologist has a full understanding of mission-limiting thresholds for each sortie and airframe. The MWE meteorologist works closely with the ASE meteorologist to ensure all base organizations receive required support. Mission Weather function responsibilities and tasks include:

3.3.1. Liaison Support.

3.3.1.1. Subject to manning availability and in accordance with 306 OSS/OSW duty priorities, listed in Attachment 2, an MWE meteorologist can provide in-person briefings to the flying squadrons.

The meteorologist will also solicit feedback on current and previous weather products and support.

3.3.1.2. The MWE meteorologist is also available for mass briefings and any situation requiring weather support at the squadron level (e.g., flying safety or continuation training). MWE also provides direct input for future mission planning upon request.

3.3.1.3. It is the responsibility of the MWE meteorologist to monitor flying squadron practices (mass briefs, cross-country mission planning, etc.), technology, and weather information sources to continuously improve weather support practices that best fit 306 FTG mission requirements.

3.4. Local Flying Area. The local flying area is defined as all locations within 80NM of Davis Airfield.

3.5. Weather Impacts on Supported Organizations. The following attachments are derived from AFI 11-2 series publications including AETC and 306 FTG supplements. These attachments provide guidance on mission-limiting weather conditions for locally assigned aircraft and related programs.

These attachments do not include all-inclusive lists of weather sensitivities for each aircraft. For complete lists, see the respective AFIs and Air Force Technical Orders (AFTO) for each aircraft.

3.5.1. 94 FTS. TG-15A/B and TG-16A gliders operate at USAFA under the weather restrictions listed in Attachment 7.

3.5.2. 98 FTS. UV-18B (DHC-6) aircraft operate at USAFA under the weather restrictions listed in Attachment 8. Weather restrictions for 98 FTS parachuting operations are also listed in this attachment.

3.5.3. 557 FTS. T-41D (C-172), T-51A (C-150), and T-53A (SR-20) powered flight aircraft operate at USAFA under the weather restrictions listed in Attachment 9.

3.5.4. USAFA, CW, and 10 ABW. USAFA and 10 ABW mission-limiting weather conditions are listed in Attachment 10.

3.6. USAFA’s 7-Day Forecast. 306 OSS/OSW produces USAFA’s 7-day Forecast as a general, quick-look, and “worst case” forecast of weather conditions. The 7-day Forecast is updated daily by 0700L, but may be updated later if conditions change significantly. The USAFA 7-Day Forecast Outlook is located at https://hwas.usafa.edu/weather/sevendayupdate.cfm. An example of this forecast can be found in Attachment 11.

3.7. Mission Weather Product (MWP). 306 OSS/OSW develops a MWP using the processes outlined in AFMAN 15-129. 306 OSS/OSW develops the MWP by integrating and tailoring products created by strategic and regional weather centers, as well as information supplied by local units and agencies. The end result is a product designed to provide timely, accurate, consistent, and relevant weather information to local users. MWPs are horizontally consistent with, but may not mirror the TAF and/or centralized products issued by the 25 OWS.

3.8. Mission Execution Forecast (MEF). 306 OSS/OSW’s MWP is the MEF. It is a mission-tailored forecast for all routinely utilized 306 FTG operating areas, airframes, mission types, and pilot qualifications. It consists of the MEF document and MWE meteorologist’s verbal/in-person updates;

verbal updates on recorded lines are considered legal flight briefings for all 306 FTG missions.

Regularly timed MEF document updates are subject to workload impacts, and may be superseded by verbal support via recorded lines. The MEF is flexible and may be changed as necessary to meet the needs of the 306 FTG missions. Transient aircrews may not utilize the MEF, but are welcome to setup briefings from 306 OSS/OSW or 25 OWS. An example of the USAFA MEF is located at Attachment 12.

3.8.1. MEF Issue Times. 306 OSS/OSW publishes the MEF NLT 2 hours prior to scheduled 306 FTG flying operations. The MEF is published at least every 3 hours, continuously METWATCHed and amended as necessary unless workload spikes force verbal updates in lieu of the document. 306 OSS/OSW does not issue a MEF outside normal 306 FTG or RPA flying hours save for pre-coordinated special events (e.g., Ben Lowell competition).

3.8.2. MEF Amendment Criteria. The MEF will be amended throughout the flying day whenever an unforecasted Mission Specific Threshold is expected, crossed, or is deemed unrepresentative.

Verbal updates and operational recommendations will supersede the MEF document as a means to expedite and maximize supported units’ response to highly impactful weather phenomena. As required by rapidly changing conditions, 306 OSS/OSW will amend the MEF by contacting the 306

FTG SOF, 94 FTS SCO, 98 FTS DZCO or 98 FTS Ops Sup, 557 FTS Ops Sup, and/or CW POC to pass on the mission impact.

3.8.2.1. Hail/Microburst. 306 OSS/OSW need not amend the MEF document for hail/microburst forecasts. Verbal now-casting updates and operational recommendations will supersede the MEF document as a means to expedite and maximize supported unit’s response to highly impactful phenomena.

3.8.3. MEF Dissemination. 306 OSS/OSW will save a copy of the MEF to a shared file for Graduate Training Integration Management System (GTIMS) users, and email a PDF of the MEF to a locally maintained distribution list. If the network is unavailable the 306 OSS/OSW will provide printed copies of the MEF, and/or in-person verbal briefs to each FTS Operations Supervisor and the 306 FTG Supervisor of Flying (SOF).

3.9. MISSIONWATCH. MISSIONWATCH is the process 306 OSS/OSW utilizes to monitor terrestrial and space weather impacts for all 306 FTG and USAFA RPA sorties. It is the responsibility of 306 OSS/OSW to appraise and advise 557 FTS, 98 FTS, 94 FTS, 306 FTG SOF, and USAFA RPA of real-time weather impacts, and to provide any viable and safe options to maximize training.

306 OSS/OSW will perform MISSIONWATCH on transient flights briefed by 306 OSS/OSW, and 25 OWS will perform MISSIONWATCH on transient flights from USAFA briefed by the OWS.

3.9.1. USAFA Aerial Events and Flyovers. 306 OSS/OSW provides weather forecasts and MISSIONWATCH for USAFA aerial events and flyovers.

3.10. Off-Station Support for 306 FTG Aircraft. 306 OSS/OSW provides or arranges for tailored weather support for 306 FTG units in accordance with AFMAN 15-129. 306 OSS/OSW coordinates off-site resource protection support via 557 Weather Wing and geographically responsible Operational Weather Squadrons. It is 306 OSS/OSW’s intent to duplicate as closely as possible the in-garrison support 306 FTG units receive locally.

3.10.1. Off-Station Support for Cadet Survival Training. 306 OSS/OSW provides or arranges for tailored weather support for Cadet Survival Training operations in Pinion Canyon Maneuver Site in accordance with AFMAN 15-129. 306 OSS/OSW coordinates off-site resource protection support via 557 Weather Wing and 25 Operational Weather Squadron.

3.11. Flight Weather Briefings. 306 OSS/OSW provides traditional (DD Form 175-1) or verbal flight weather briefings to aircrews, upon request, and in accordance with 306 OSS/OSW duty priorities. Briefings are provided in-person at 306 OSS/OSW (Bldg 9206), or via email, phone or Microsoft Teams. Aircrews should provide 306 OSS/OSW as much lead time as possible to complete the request. These briefings are documented in accordance with AFMAN 15-129. Briefings can also be requested from the 25 OWS Flight Briefing Cell at DSN 228-6598/6599/6588 or Commercial

(520) 228-6598/6599/6588. The 25 OWS Fax number is DSN 228-7361 or Commercial (520) 228- 7361. During 306 OSS/OSW equipment or communications outages the 25 OWS will back up 306 OSS/OSW for flight weather briefings.

3.11.1. Mass Weather Briefings. 306 OSS/OSW provides mass aircrew briefings for larger or special missions on request, subject to available manning.

3.11.2. Transient Weather Briefings. 306 OSS/OSW provides traditional DD 175-1, Flight Weather Briefing or verbal flight weather briefings to transient aircrews, as requested, and in accordance with 306 OSS/OSW duty priorities. (Note: Transient aircrew weather briefings are very rare due to prior airfield access permission requirements.)

3.12. Space Weather. Space weather data and forecasts for USAFA operations are available upon request. Information is available for space weather impacts to radio frequencies and Global Positioning Systems.

Chapter 4

STAFF WEATHER ELEMENT

4.1. General. 306 OSS/OSW provides staff weather support to the USAFA Superintendent, the USAFA Commandant of Cadets, 10 ABW, and 306 FTG. Support includes, but is not limited to: staff weather briefings, airfield command and control briefings, mass deployment and other briefings, and assisting in the planning and execution of exercises. Staff Weather Officer (SWO) services are designed to be flexible and tailored to meet user’s needs. The contract site manager is the Staff Weather Officer (SWO) and provides leadership and management of the Airfield Services, Mission Weather and Staff Weather elements. The SWO coordinates weather support activities between organizations, 25 OWS, and the weather Contract Officer Representative (COR). Staff weather services are available during normal duty hours, but will be extended if pre-coordinated.

4.2. Senior Staff Weather Briefings.

4.2.1. Staff Weather Briefings. 306 OSS/OSW provides weather briefings at several weekly staff meetings. These briefings are flexible, but typically include 306 OSS/OSW’s 7-day forecast. Other items, such as forecasts for special events (e.g., cadet parachuting, soaring, and powered flight training deployments and competitions, parades, Jack’s Valley Training exercises, etc.) are included in briefings as required. 306 OSS/OSW may be invited to brief at the biweekly command staff weather briefings to The Commandant of Cadets (USAFA/CW), and/or the USAFA Superintendent (USAFA/CC). Biweekly command staff briefs are provided to 306 FTG. 10 ABW briefs are provided as required.

4.2.2. Special Weather Briefings. 306 OSS/OSW provides weather briefing updates for USAFA’s special events, such as: USAFA Graduation Week, USAFA Preparatory School Graduation Parade, Commandant’s Challenge, Basic Cadet Training, Cadet Survival Training, etc.

4.3. USAFA Emergency Operations Center (EOC) Briefings. 306 OSS/OSW creates and presents unclassified weather briefings to the USAFA EOC upon request in accordance with USAFA Plan 10- 2, Installation Emergency Management Plan (CUI).

4.4. USAFA Emergency Management (EM) Briefings. 306 OSS/OSW will attend the Emergency Manager’s Working Group (EMWG) meetings, and will provide and present briefings upon request.

Briefings for EM purposes typically encompass weather threats (i.e., hail, tornadoes, flash floods, wild fires) in lieu of forecasts.

4.5. 306 FTG and Cadet Survival Training Off-station Weather Support. 306 OSS/OSW provides or arranges for weather support for 94 FTS, 98 FTS, and 557 FTS training, competition, air show, and static display deployments. 306 OSS/OSW coordinates and publishes a resource protection Support Assistance Request (SAR) with 557 WW and geographically responsible OWS.

4.6. Mobility Concept Briefing. 306 OSS/OSW can provide Mobility Concept Briefings upon request. The focus of the briefing is on departure conditions and deployed area conditions and climatology. At a minimum, the briefing includes forecast conditions at USAFA for departure time, deployed area climatology conditions, and forecast conditions for destination arrival time. Other items will be briefed as required.

4.7. Snow and Ice Control Briefings. 306 OSS/OSW provides weather briefings in support of pre-and post-season Snow and Ice Control meetings. USAFA Plan 32-1002, Snow and Ice Control Plan, provides additional information.

4.8. Air Traffic Control (ATC) Weather Orientation and Training. 306 OSS/OSW provides limited observer training to 306 OSS ATC controllers. On completion of training, ATC personnel will be given a short test and orientation tour of the weather flight.

4.9. Supervisor of Flying (SOF) Continuation Training (CT) Briefings. 306 OSS/OSW presents upcoming seasonal weather primer briefings for SOF CT purposes. This also serves as a venue to solicit feedback and address SOF and other weather support issues.

4.10. SOF Orientation Briefings. 306 OSS/OSW provides orientation to new SOFs including information on 306 OSS/OSW and 25 OWS duties, hours of operation, capabilities, equipment, and limitations.

4.11. Weather Hazard Briefings. 306 OSS/OSW creates and presents weather hazard briefings including USAFA lightning safety briefings.

4.12. USAFA Inspector General (IG) Exercise Support. 306 OSS/OSW can serve as a trusted agent in exercises involving severe weather and assist the 10 ABW/XP in developing realistic severe weather exercise scenarios.

4.13. USAFA Aero Club Seasonal Weather Briefings. 306 OSS/OSW provides seasonal weather briefings to the USAFA Aero Club upon request.

4.14. Quarterly Base Airfield Operations Board (AOB) Meetings. 306 OSS/OSW attends quarterly Base Airfield Operations Board meetings in accordance with AFI 13-204, Volume 3.

4.15. USAFA Climatology Support. 306 OSS/OSW maintains a climatology database for conditions recorded at Davis Airfield. 306 OSS/OSW can leverage the support of the 14th Weather Squadron (WS), Asheville, North Carolina, for more extensive climate data and statistics worldwide. Upon request from an authorized agency, 306 OSS/OSW will provide climatology data for USAFA or other locations. Requests should be made in writing (email/memo).

4.16. Flight Information Publications (FLIP) Updates. 306 OSS/OSW ensures all weather information in the FLIP, such as weather flight operating hours and equipment limitations, is current and accurate. The 306 OSS/OSW reviews FLIP upon receipt. The contract weather manager forwards weather updates to 306 OSS/OSAA for processing. Updates can include revisions, changes, or corrections.

4.17. Recall Roster. 306 OSS/OSW provides a copy of the 306 OSS/OSW recall roster to the Contract Officer Representative, 306 OSS/CC, and the Colorado Springs Regional Command Post at least monthly or as changes occur. In addition, 306 OSS/OSW includes the primary point of contact responsible for the recall roster. (Ref: USAFAI 10-207, Alert Notification Procedures).

4.18. Automated Meteorological Observing System (AMOS) Station Information File. 306 OSS/OSW maintains AMOS Station Information Files for the USAFA Airfield AMOS. 306 OSS/OSW updates the Station Information Files as necessary and forwards a copy of the updated file to 14 WS/DOO.

4.19. Standard Clock. 306 OSS/OSW has designated and maintains a standard clock and ensures the clock time is within one minute of the U.S. Naval Observatory time. Time checks are made on duty days, and time checks annotated on Federal Meteorological Form 3813, Surface Weather Observation (revised) (METAR/SPECI Form for Military Use).

4.20. Weather Support Documentation.

4.20.1. 306 OSS/OSW reviews and revises this instruction no greater than biennially in accordance with AFMAN 15-129.

4.20.2. 306 OSS/OSW coordinates updates and changes to the 25 OWS – 306 OSS Installation Data Page in accordance with AFMAN 15-129.

4.20.3. 306 OSS/OSW has developed and maintains standing operating procedures concerning weather operations in accordance with AFMAN 15-129.

4.20.4. 306 OSS/OSW, upon request, reviews draft USAFA Plans containing weather support requirements to ensure requested weather support requirements are met.

4.21. Performance Assessment. 306 OSS/OSW complies with AFI 90-201, The Air Force Inspection System.

Chapter 5

EMERGENCY ACTIONS

5.1. General. This section outlines 306 OSS/OSW emergency actions.

5.2. Alternate Operating Location (Continuity of Operations Program – COOP). In accordance with AFI 10-208, Air Force Continuity of Operations Program, the 306 OSS/OSW relocates weather operations to the Alternate Operating Location (AOL) in the event the primary operating location (Bldg 9206) must be evacuated. If actively supporting flying operations the 306 OSS/OSW will not evacuate Bldg 9206 for exercises. The AOL is located in the Air Traffic Control Tower (ATCT) Observation Deck, (719) 333-1144. Once established at the AOL, 306 OSS/OSW will resume weather operations and services. 306 OSS/OSW will notify the agencies in Table 5.1. when relocating to the AOL, and subsequent return to Building 9206.

Table 5.1. Agencies / Personnel Notified of Change in Operating Location.

Agency Phone 306 OSS/OSAT (Control Tower) Hotline 306 FTG SOF Hotline or (719) 333-1162 Colorado Springs Regional Command Post

DSN: 834-4555

Com: (719) 556-4555

25 OWS DSN 228-6674

Weather Supervisor See Recall Roster

5.2.1. AOL Weather Services. 306 OSS/OSW provides the following services for USAFA from the

AOL:

5.2.1.1. Performs a Basic Weather Watch and is prepared to augment AN/FMQ-19 weather observations as required.

5.2.1.1.1. If the AN/FMQ-19 is unavailable, an observation will be taken within 15 minutes of arriving at the AOL containing, as a minimum, prevailing visibility, present weather and obscurations, sky condition, wind direction and speed, temperature and dew point, and altimeter setting using manual observing system equipment and disseminate weather observations via JET or by phone.

5.2.1.2. Continue/perform METWATCH.

5.2.1.3. Issue and update MEFs as explained above to include total network outage.

5.2.1.4. Issue and amend TAFs.

5.2.1.5. Issue, amend, and cancel weather warnings, lightning and dry microburst watches, and advisories; issue by phone or email if JET is unavailable.

5.2.1.6. Provide aircrew weather briefings and MISSIONWATCH. Briefings will be given by phone and/or email.

5.2.2. AOL Limitations. Limited network access prevents…