Airspace NOTAMs

The primary source of NOTAM information is the AIS web site (www.nats-uk.ead-it.com/public/index.php.html).

Access to the AIS site is available to all pilots, although on-line registration is required before you can use the site.

The AIS site contains many facilities but it is not always clear how best to obtain the information that you require. There is a user guide available online and the BGA has produced a guide (click here to view/download) which describes how the site can best be used to get at the information that we, as glider pilots, require.

A summarised 'crib sheet' suitable for posting on club notice boards is also available. This describes how to get NOTAM information appropriate to the majority of local flights and short tasks from your club (This document is in MSWord format as you will have to customise it to meet your club's needs). Note that the method specified in this document will NOT be suitable for all flights. If in doubt, refer to the more detailed document above. The crib sheet can be downloaded here.

Should the AIS web site be unavailable for any reason, pre-prepared PIBs can be downloaded as follows:

LONDON FIR IFR/VFR BRIEFING
SCOTTISH FIR IFR/VFR BRIEFING

These pre-prepared briefings will not be as up to date as the ones above which are prepared on-demand. The pre-prepared briefings shoudl therefore only be used as a contingency measure.

A useful description of NOTAM formats is at www.telecall.uk.com/ais/Notam_Format.htm