VOLMET

Definition

VOLMET (short for “Vol Météorologique”) is a continuous broadcast of meteorological information for aircraft in flight. It provides updated METAR, TAF, and other weather reports for enroute and destination aerodromes, primarily intended for use by pilots during flight. VOLMET broadcasts are made via high-frequency (HF) and very high-frequency (VHF) radio transmissions and are standardized globally for international aviation use.

Purpose

Provide real-time weather information to pilots in flight
Enable route and destination adjustments based on current conditions
Assist IFR decision-making and approach planning
Support fuel and alternate calculations based on actual MET conditions

Content of a VOLMET Broadcast

Typically includes:

METARs: Actual weather conditions at specified aerodromes
TAFs (optional): Forecasts for selected destinations
SIGMETs: Significant weather advisories (in some regions)

The broadcast is cyclical, repeating at fixed intervals.

Example Information in VOLMET:

Surface wind
Visibility
Cloud cover
Temperature and dew point
QNH (pressure setting)
Significant weather (e.g., fog, rain, storms)

Transmission Characteristics

Parameter	Details
Frequency	HF (long-range) or VHF (regional/terminal use)
Language	English only
Format	Pre-recorded, rotating broadcast
Broadcast Cycle	Usually every 30 minutes
Reception	By setting appropriate radio frequency in aircraft radios

Phraseology Example

Pilot: “Request latest Vienna weather via VOLMET”
(Or tune directly to VOLMET frequency to listen)
Broadcast: “Vienna, 081250Z, 27008KT, 9999, BKN040, 18/10, Q1016, NOSIG”

VOLMET vs. ATIS

Feature	VOLMET	ATIS
Scope	Regional/international	Specific aerodrome
Access	HF/VHF, in-flight	VHF, near aerodrome
Content	METARs/TAFs	METAR + runway and ATC info
Purpose	Enroute planning	Arrival/departure briefings

European VOLMET Example Frequencies

Station	Region	Frequency (HF)
Shannon VOLMET	North Atlantic/Europe	3413, 5505, 8957, 13264 kHz
London VOLMET	UK & Europe	128.6 MHz (VHF), HF variants

Pilots should consult AIP ENR 1.6 or equivalent for country-specific frequencies and coverage.

Tips for Pilots

✅ Know the VOLMET frequencies relevant to your FIR or region
✅ Use VOLMET to update weather enroute, especially before descent
✅ Practice interpreting METAR/TAF from audio with LearnATC weather modules
✅ Use VOLMET in areas without D-ATIS or when unable to contact FIS