Expert: Heiko Hanusch - 12/1/2005

Question
Hi Heiko,
I am a private pilot and was wanted your opinion on which charts you check before going on a flight.  What order do use you and what kind of trends do you look for.
thanks
Corey

Answer
Hi Corey,

Thank you for your question.
I have to tell you that, since I fly only with my airline, what we check is the Radar as we walk out the door and the remaining weather is all printed on our release. The ones we find there are current Metar's and forecast's for the destination and origination airport as well as any weather related to route of flight (area forecast) and any Sigmet and convective Sigmets. We also pay attention to any Pireps relating to our route of flight and Winds aloft.
I must tell you that the one with the most weight for me is the RADAR and any PIREPS because they give us the most up to date picture.

I hope this helps a little bit,

H2