Pico-specific forecasts strengthen options for air operations

SATA and the Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) will set up a working group focused on reducing the weather-related impact on air operations in the Azores. The initiative is intended to improve the information available for flight decisions in an archipelago where conditions can quickly disrupt scheduled services.

One of the planned measures is the development of meteorological forecasts tailored to Pico Aerodrome, due to be completed by the end of the year. More locally focused information is expected to support the assessment of operations at the airfield.

The plan also seeks to make Pico a more workable operational alternative when weather affects take-offs or landings at other airports. That capability could help the airline prepare for operational changes earlier and limit weather-related cancellations.

For residents, visitors and businesses that rely on air connections, better aviation forecasting has a direct effect on inter-island mobility and links beyond the region. The cooperation between the airline and IPMA places weather information at the heart of a more prepared response to the Azores’ particular geography.