How has aviation forecasting evolved in the UK? This article provides a comprehensive overview of the key advancements in aviation forecasting in the United Kingdom over a 50-year period, up to 1985. It highlights the increasing commitments of the UK Meteorological Office to Regional and World Area Forecasting, along with recent improvements in forecasting significant weather at low and middle/upper levels. The paper considers various meteorological hazards requiring warnings, as well as current aviation forecast outputs. It also offers a forward-looking perspective, cautioning that the trend towards fully automated products may be hindered by slower advancements in model technology, particularly in forecasting fog and low cloud. This historical analysis and insightful outlook offer valuable context for understanding the ongoing challenges and future directions in aviation meteorology, and serves as a foundation for further innovation in the field.
Published in Meteorological Applications, this overview aligns with the journal's aim to advance the practical application of meteorology. The paper’s summary of developments in aviation forecasting and discussion of future challenges contribute to the journal's coverage of meteorological forecasting and its importance in aviation safety and operations. The article provides context for ongoing research in the field.