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+--------------------------------+-----------------+------------------+
| **Subject:** NOTICES TO AIRMEN | **Date:**       | **AC No.:**      |
| (NOTAMS) FOR AIRPORT OPERATORS | 1/28/08         | 150/5200-28D     |
|                                |                 |                  |
|                                | **Initiated     | **Change:**      |
|                                | by:** AAS-300   |                  |
+--------------------------------+-----------------+------------------+

1.  **PURPOSE.** This advisory circular (AC) provides guidance on using
    the NOTAM system for airport condition reporting.

2.  **FOCUS.** This material is intended primarily for airport
    operators, or their agents, who monitor and manage the day-to-day
    operation of the airport and who may also have operational
    responsibility for certain airport-related facilities.

3.  **CANCELLATION.** AC 150/5200-28C, *Notices to Airmen (NOTAMS) for
    Airport Operators,* dated July 24, 2006, is canceled.

4.  **BACKGROUND.** In the National Airspace Review (NAR) conducted by
    the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for government and
    industry airspace users, it was agreed that airport operators, as
    frequent contributors to the NOTAM system, should be provided with
    an AC to assist them in formulating NOTAM material. The goal
    expressed by the group was twofold: to promote effective use of the
    NOTAM system by airport operators and to reduce the need for FAA
    specialists to recast NOTAM submissions into systems-compatible
    language and format. The airport operator and pilot group members of
    the NAR, in particular, expressed confidence that better NOTAM
    submissions from airport operators would require less recasting for
    systems acceptance and would reduce the chance of inadvertent
    alteration of the message during processing.

FAA policy changes have resulted in significant changes to the format of
Distant (D) and Local (L) NOTAMs:

-   Prior civil "L" NOTAMs will be reclassified as "D" NOTAMs (Military
    L series will remain unchanged).

-   All D NOTAMs must have one of the following keywords as the first
    part of the text: RWY, TWY, RAMP, APRON, AD, OBST, NAV, COM, SVC,
    AIRSPACE, (U), or (O) (see Paragraph 13 for an explanation of
    keywords).

-   For the purpose of NOTAMs, the term Movement Area includes Runways,
    Taxiways, Ramps, Aprons, and Helipads.

-   The United States NOTAM Office (USNOF) is the authority ensuring
    NOTAM formats. To ensure that the NOTAMs issued are consistent with
    NOTAM Policy, submitters must comply with USNOF personnel
    directions.

-   All NOTAMs will be processed, stored and distributed by the United
    States NOTAM System (USNS).

5.  **RELATED CODE OF FEDERAL REGULATIONS (CFRs).** The related CFRs are
    14 CFR Part 139, *Certification of Airports,* and Part 157, *Notice
    of Construction, Alteration, Activation, and Deactivation of
    Airports.*

6.  **RELATED REFERENCE MATERIAL.** The following are FAA regulations
    and publications (see current versions) from which material has been
    extracted for the preparation of this AC. They will continue to be
    the authoritative source of revisions to this AC. These references
    also contain additional resource material that may be useful in
    special situations, but their immediate availability to airport
    operators is not considered necessary to accomplish the basic
    operational purpose of this AC. Technical terms and contractions
    used in this AC are explained in Appendices A through C. Electronic
    versions of these documents are available online*.* Electronic CFRs
    are available at [ecfr.gpoaccess.gov](http://ecfr.gpoaccess.gov/).
    Air Traffic publications are available at
    [www.faa.gov/airports_airtraffic/air_traffic/publications/](http://www.faa.gov/airports_airtraffic/air_traffic/publications/).
    Airport ACs (150 series) are available at
    [www.faa.gov/airports_airtraffic/airports/](http://www.faa.gov/airports_airtraffic/airports/).
    The Airport/Facility Directory (A/FD) is available at naco.faa.gov.
    AC 70/7460-1, *Obstruction Lighting and Marking*, is available at
    wireless.fcc.gov/antenna/index.htm?job=documentation_faa.

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a.  14 CFR Part 139, *Certification of Airports.*

b.  14 CFR Part 157, *Notice of Construction, Alteration, Activation,
    and Deactivation of Airports.*

c.  47 CFR Part 17, *Construction, Marking, and Lighting of Antenna
    Structures.*

d.  49 CFR Part 1542, *Airport Security.*

e.  49 CFR Part 1544, *Aircraft Operator Security: Air Carriers and
    Commercial Operators.*

f.  FAA Order 7110.10, *Flight Services.*

g.  FAA Order 7110.65, *Air Traffic Control.*

h.  FAA Order 7210.3, *Facility Operation and Administration.*

i.  FAA Order 7340.1, *Contractions.*

j.  FAA Order 7350.7, *Location Identifiers.*

k.  FAA Order 7930.2, *Notices to Airmen (NOTAMS).*

l.  FAA Notice N JO 7930.2L, *Notice to Airmen (NOTAMs).*

m.  *Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM).*

n.  *Airport/Facility Directory (A/FD).*

o.  AC 70/7460-1, *Obstruction Lighting and Marking*.

p.  AC 150/5200-30*, Airport Winter Safety and Operations.*

q.  AC 150/5370-2*, Operational Safety on Airports during Construction.*

r.  *Pilot/Controller Glossary (P/CG).*

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7.  **USE OF THIS AC.** The NOTAM system discussed in this AC is
    tailored to airport condition reporting needs. Further information
    can be found in the references listed in paragraph 6 above. This AC
    provides guidance as follows:

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a.  Paragraphs 8 through 11 introduce basic characteristics of the NOTAM
    system and responsibilities of the participants concerned.

b.  Paragraphs 12 through 14 provide guidance for the NOTAM initiating
    process with example NOTAMs.

c.  Paragraph 15 discusses special reporting considerations for
    conditions, such as braking action, winter conditions, runway light
    obscuration, and obstacle lights with example NOTAMs.

d.  Paragraph 16 provides guidance and examples for Personnel and
    Equipment Working NOTAMs.

e.  Paragraph 17 provides guidance and examples for Certificated Airport
    Rescue and Fire Fighting NOTAMs.

f.  Paragraph 18 provides information about dissemination of NOTAMs.

g.  Paragraph 19 discusses extended period NOTAMs.

h.  Paragraph 20 provides suggestions for NOTAM control and record
    keeping.

i.  Appendix A contains definitions and usage, plus contractions where
    applicable, of technical terms to understand this AC and participate
    in the NOTAM system.

j.  Appendix B lists authorized contractions and abbreviations.

k.  Appendix C lists airport facility condition descriptions and
    contractions.

l.  Appendix D is a sample NOTAM form.

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8.  **FUNCTION OF THE NOTAM SYSTEM**. The NOTAM system provides
    essential information to personnel concerned with flight and airport
    operations. NOTAMs provide timely information on unanticipated or
    temporary changes to components of or hazards in the National
    Airspace System (NAS). Component changes may pertain to facilities,
    services, procedures, or hazards in the NAS. A NOTAM provides
    information that becomes available too late to publicize in the
    associated aeronautical charts and related publications.

The NOTAM system is not intended to be used to impose restrictions on
airport access for the purpose of controlling or managing noise, or to
advertise data already published or charted.[^1]

9.  **AIRPORT MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITY.** The management of a public
    use airport is expected to make known, as soon as practical, any
    condition on or in the vicinity of the airport, existing or
    anticipated, that will prevent, restrict, or present a hazard during
    the arrival or departure of aircraft.[^2] Airport management is
    responsible for observing and reporting the condition of airport
    movement areas.

Normally notification should be made not more than 3 days before the
expected condition is to occur. Public notification is usually
accomplished by the NOTAM system. This same notification system should
be used when the condition has been corrected or otherwise changed.
Airport operators are also responsible for canceling NOTAMS that are no
longer applicable to airport facilities.

Some facilities components; such as pavements, runway lights, and
airport guidance sign systems; are always the responsibility of the
airport operator. Others, such as navigation facilities and approach
lights, are usually the responsibility of the FAA. To avoid confusion,
airport operators should initiate a NOTAM on a facility only when its
operation and maintenance are clearly within their area of
responsibility. However, airport operators should make every effort to
alert the responsible party when outages/discrepancies are observed in
facilities that fall outside their area of responsibility.

Specific airport management responsibilities are outlined in 14 CFR Part
139, *Certification of Airports,* and 14 CFR Part 157, *Notice of
Construction, Alteration, Activation, and Deactivation of Airports*.
Airport managers of Certificated Airports are required to abide by
applicable provisions of these Parts and pertinent regulations
referenced in this AC.

Airport operators and pilots should also be aware of Temporary Flight
Restrictions (TFR) that may affect airport operations.  TFR information
is available at
[www.faa.gov/pilots/flt_plan/notams/](http://www.faa.gov/pilots/flt_plan/notams/)
or by calling any flight service station for a pilot briefing.

10. **CERTIFICATED AIRPORTS.** Airports certificated under 14 CFR Part
    139 have certain requirements set by regulation for disseminating
    information about conditions on and in the vicinity of their
    airports that may affect the safe operation of aircraft. For
    detailed information, see 14 CFR Part 139 and the airport's *Airport
    Certification Manual*.

11. **AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL** (**ATC) RESPONSIBILITIES.** Air Traffic
    personnel must accept all airmen information regardless of the
    source or subject matter, provided the occurrence is no more than 3
    days in the future.

**NOTE:** *Situations that present an immediate hazard should be
reported to the ATC facility most concerned. Other situations should be
reported on a first priority basis to the Flight Service Station (FSS).*

Air Traffic then obtains the name, title (if appropriate), address, and
telephone number of the person furnishing the information. The data is
then forwarded to the appropriate tie-in FSS. FSS specialists are
responsible for the classification, accuracy, format, dissemination, and
cancellation of NOTAM information. All information submitted by FSS
specialists is subject to verification with the US NOTAM Office
(1-877-4US-NTMS (877-487-6867)) before distribution as a NOTAM. Flight
Data Center (FDC) NOTAMs are issued by the US NOTAM Office/National
Flight Data Center and pertain to changes such as navigational
facilities, instrument approaches, and flight restrictions. FDC NOTAMs
refer to information that is regulatory in nature.

**NOTE:** *FSSs are no longer responsible for TFR notifications to ATC
facilities, except in Alaska. The System Operations Support Center
(SOSC) through the respective service centers is now performing these
duties.*

12. **AUTHORITY TO INITIATE NOTAM.** Airport management is responsible
    for observing and reporting the condition of:

-   Runways -- applies to landing, take-off surfaces, and associated
    lighting and signage.

-   Taxiways -- Conditions pertaining to single or multiple taxiways.
    Include lighting (centerline; edge lights) status if applicable.

-   Ramps

-   Aprons

-   Helipads

-   Snow, ice, slush, and water that affects the movement areas

-   Aircraft Rescue and Fire fighting (ARFF)

-   Any obstruction more than 200 feet above ground level (AGL) and
    located within 5 statute miles (SM) (4.3 nautical miles (NM))
    radius. Any obstruction that is 200 feet AGL or less and more than 5
    SM from an airport does not constitute a hazard.

-   Obstruction light outages located within 5 SM (4.3 NM) radius of an
    airport regardless of height or located outside a 5 SM (4.3 NM)
    radius and exceeds 200 feet AGL.

-   Services (fuel availability)

In addition, airport management is also responsible for providing an up
to date list of airport employees who are authorized to issue NOTAMs to
the FSS air traffic manager at the FSS listed in the Airport/Facility
Directory (A/FD)). At public airports without an airport manager, the
FSS air traffic manager will coordinate with the appropriate operating
authority to obtain a list of persons delegated to provide NOTAM
information. Using authorized airport personnel will help to expedite
the NOTAM processing because information obtained from unauthorized
personnel must be confirmed by the FSS before a NOTAM will be issued.

Authorized airport personnel submit information for NOTAMs to Flight
Service Stations (FSS) that receive and manage it.

Letters of agreement should be executed between airport management and
ATC facilities outlining procedures to be used for originating NOTAMs.
For example, at some controlled airports, the Airport Traffic Control
Tower (ATCT) might ask to be in the NOTAM origination loop with the
airport management and the FSS.

**NOTE:** *Although the airport operator has primary NOTAM origination
responsibilities for the movement areas, the ATC facility managing the
NOTAM system is responsible for, and has the authority to ensure the
systems compatibility of the format and content of the proposed NOTAM
message.*

13. **INITIATING A NOTAM.**

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a.  **Composing the NOTAM.** Wherever possible, NOTAMs must use official
    contractions and abbreviations. Official contractions are in FAA
    Order 7930.2, *Notices to Airmen (NOTAM),* and in Appendices A
    through C[^3]. They should be inserted during the process and it is
    best if airport personnel know and use them when working with the
    NOTAM system. Most required airport NOTAM terms are described in
    this AC. If the terms described below do not fit a specific
    situation, use clear and concise plain language for the text of the
    message, or consult with the FSS for preferred terminology. A NOTAM
    must **always state** the **abnormal** condition -- **do not state**
    a **normal** condition. The only exception to the preceding is for
    data that is already published and is being replaced; for example, a
    runway that was previously closed and is now open.

**NOTE:** *For illustrative purposes only in this AC, XYZ is used where
an accountability or location identifier would normally appear in a
NOTAM message.*

> NOTAMs must contain the following elements in left to right order:

(1) ADP code. This will be an exclamation point "!\".

(2) Three letter identifier code, XYZ, for the accountability location.

(3) Three letter identifier code, XYZ, for the affected facility or
    location.

> **NOTE:** *Location identifiers used in the NOTAM system are in FAA
> Order 7350.7, Location Identifiers.*

(4) One of the following twelve keywords as the first part of the text:

> **Keywords and definitions:**
>
> **NOTE:** *See Section 13b for examples of typical airport employee
> authored NOTAMs.*

-   **AD (Aerodrome)**

> Applies to any hazard to aircraft operations on or within 5 statute
> miles (SM) of an aerodrome which encompasses airport, heliport,
> helipad, and movement areas that are not under runways, taxiways,
> ramps, aprons, obstructions, NAVAIDs, services, communications or
> airspaces.

-   **AIRSPACE**

> Applies to hazards associated with special use airspace, Central
> Altitude Reservation Facility (CARF), aircraft operations, aerial
> refueling, unmanned rockets, balloons, fireworks, parachute
> jumping/skydiving, and high altitude balloons.

-   **APRON**

> Applies to hazards associated with defined surface areas on an
> aerodrome. The terms "ramp" and "apron" are synonymous.
>
> Definition of ramp/apron: a defined area on a land aerodrome intended
> to accommodate aircraft for purposes of loading or unloading
> passengers, mail/cargo, fueling, parking, or maintenance.
>
> **NOTE:** *Ramps and aprons may be identified by a name specific to
> them.*

-   **COM** (Communications)

> Applies to communication outlet commissioning, decommissioning,
> outage, unavailability, and Air Traffic Control frequency status.

-   **NAV** (Navigation Aids)

> Applies to navigation aid status: VORs, ILS, WAAS, NDB, TACAN, etc.

-   **OBST** (Obstructions, including obstruction lighting outages)

> Applies to obstructions, including obstruction lighting outages,
> moored balloons, kites, towers, cranes, smoke stacks, etc.

-   **RAMP** (synonymous with **APRON**)

-   **RWY (Runway)**

> Applies to landing and take-off surfaces, and associated lighting and
> signage. Identify runways with the prefix RWY followed by the magnetic
> bearing indicator, e.g., RWY 12/30, RWY 12, or RWY 30. Where the
> magnetic bearing indicator has not been assigned, identify the runway
> to the nearest eight points of the compass, e.g., RWY NE/SW, RWY N/S N
> 200 CLSD.

-   **TWY (Taxiway)**

> Applies to single or multiple taxiways. Identify taxiways with the
> prefix TWY followed by the taxiway identifier letter or letter/number
> as assigned. For multiple taxiways, preface the initial taxiway
> identifier with TWY, and separate additional taxiway identifiers by
> commas, or specify "all." If not identified, describe as adjacent to a
> runway or direction from the runway. Some examples are: TWY C, B3
> CLSD, TWY ADJACENT RWY 9/27 CLSD.

-   **SVC** (Services)

> Applies to facilities and services.

-   **(U)** (Unverified Aeronautical Information):

    -   Conditions pertaining to the movement area or other information
        received that meets NOTAM criteria and has not been confirmed by
        the Airport Manager (AMGR) or their designee.

    -   For use only where authorized by Letters of Agreement.

    -   If Flight Service is unable to contact airport management,
        Flight Service must forward (U) NOTAM information to USNS.
        Subsequent to USNS distribution of a (U) NOTAM, Flight Service
        will inform airport management of the action taken as soon as
        practical. Any such NOTAM will be prefaced with '(U)' as the
        keyword and followed by the appropriate keyword contraction, as
        set forth in this Policy, following the Location Identifier.

-   **(O)** (Other)

> Aeronautical information received from any authorized source that may
> be beneficial to aircraft operations and does not meet defined NOTAM
> criteria. Any such NOTAM will be prefaced with '(O)' as the keyword
> following the Location Identifier.
>
> **NOTE:** *Personnel and Equipment Working (PAEW) is
> **[not]{.underline}*** *a keyword. PAEW must be associated with a
> keyword: RAMP/APRON, TWY, or RWY, and a direction from the affected
> movement area.*

(5) After the keyword, enter the Surface Identification (optional - this
    must be the runway identification for runway-related NOTAMs, the
    taxiway identification for taxiway-related NOTAMs, or the ramp/apron
    identification for ramp/apron-related NOTAMs).

> **Example:** !XYZ XYZ **RWY** 12/30
>
> !XYZ XYZ **TWY** A,A1
>
> If a facility component has not been given a specific identifying
> designation, such as an unnumbered or unlettered parking apron,
> associate it with a component that does have a positive
> identification.
>
> **Example:** !XYZ XYZ **APRON** PARKING APRON ADJ TWY B
>
> Describe the condition that prompted the NOTAM. See Appendix C for
> listings of facilities conditions and their contractions that are
> eligible for NOTAM dissemination.
>
> **Example** !XYZ XYZ **RWY** 12/30 CLSD or !XYZ XYZ RWY 12/30 RCLL OTS

(6) Furnish the year, month, day, and the time for the beginning and end
    of the condition or the effective time (i.e. with effect from (WEF),
    or effective from). NOTAMs are issued in Coordinated Universal Time
    (UTC) time only. In addition to listing the outage time, NOTAMs
    should specify an expected time of return to service or previous
    condition. If you are not sure of the UTC time, confirm the time
    with the appropriate FSS. Absence of a return to service time will
    mean that the condition will continue until further notice.

> **Example:** !XYZ XYZ RWY 12/30 CLSD WEF 0705041300-0705041700
>
> **Translation:** *runway 12/30 closed effective May 4, 2007, at 1300
> hours UTC until May 4, 2007, 1700 hours UTC.*

b.  **Keyword Usage and Examples.** The following examples show typical
    NOTAMs that might be issued by an airport using keywords (shown
    below in bold text).

**NOTE:** *All keywords are in bold and underlined text for reference
only. Keywords are not to be underlined or in bold text for NOTAMs.*

(1) **RWY**

> **Examples:**

-   !STL STL **[RWY]{.underline}** 12L/30R CLSD EXC TXG

-   !PRC SJN **[RWY]{.underline}** 13/31 NOW RWY 14/32

(2) **TWY**

> **Examples:**

-   !LNS LNS **[TWY]{.underline}** A LGTS OTS

-   !DSM DSM **[TWY]{.underline}** P1, P3 CLSD

(3) **APRON**

> **Examples:**

-   !ATL ATL **[APRON]{.underline}** NORTH TWY L3 APRON CLSD

-   !BNA BNA **[APRON]{.underline}** NORTH APRON CLSD

(4) **RAMP**

> **Example:**

-   !DSM DSM **[RAMP]{.underline}** SOUTH CARGO RAMP CLSD

(5) **AD**

> **Examples:**

-   !LAL LAL **[AD]{.underline}** GRASS LDG STRIP LCTD 400 S RWY 9R/27L
    1700 X 55 AVBL VMC DALGT PPR SUN N FUN WEF 0804151100-0804232359

-   !CDB AK05 **[AD]{.underline}** CLSD PERM

-   !RIU O88 **[AD]{.underline}** HELI DCMSND

-   !AOO PA06 **[AD]{.underline}** CLSD TSNT

-   !BET BET **[AD]{.underline}** CLSD EXC SKI

-   !AOO 29D **[AD]{.underline}** CLSD EXC PPR 0330-1430 MON-FRI

-   !BUF D67 **[AD]{.underline}** CLSD EXC HI-WING ACFT

-   !CEW CEW **[AD]{.underline}** CLSD WEF 0709041400-0709041800

-   !CDB AKA **[AD]{.underline}** OPEN

-   !CLE 15G **[AD]{.underline}** NOW PUBLIC

(6) **OBST**

> **Examples:**

-   !MIV N52 **[OBST]{.underline}** TOWER 580 (305 AGL) 7 SW LGTS OTS
    (ASR NUMBER) TIL 0712302300

-   !PIE CLW **[OBST]{.underline}** CRANE 195 (125 AGL) .25 NE
    (2755N08241W) TIL 0711032000

> **NOTE:** *Insert latitude/longitude (if known) immediately after
> cardinal direction per format shown above.*

(7) **SVC**

> **Examples:**

-   !MIV MIV **[SVC]{.underline}** FUEL UNAVBL TIL 0709301600

-   !MSP MSP **[SVC]{.underline}** MU OTS

-   !FTW FTW **[SVC]{.underline}** ARFF NOW INDEX A TIL 0709072300

(8) **Using PAEW**

> **Examples:**

-   !CHO CHO **[RWY]{.underline}** 23 PAEW FIRST 500 ALONG SE SIDE

-   !SBY SBY **[TWY]{.underline}** E PAEW SOUTH SIDE BTN RWY 5/TWY G

-   !MEM MEM **[RAMP]{.underline}** PAEW FEDEX CARGO RAMP EAST SIDE

c.  **Submitting the NOTAM**. Airport operators are to submit NOTAM
    material to their local air traffic facility (see (1) below). This
    method is appropriate for material that becomes available after
    Flight Information Publication (FLIP) cut-off. See inside front
    cover of Airport/Facility Directory (A/FD) for FLIP cut-off dates.
    See Appendix D for a sample NOTAM form.

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(1) **Filing with the Local ATC Facility.** Enter the message into the
    Air Traffic Control (ATC) system in accordance with a local letter
    of agreement if there is one in effect. Otherwise, contact the
    appropriate Air Traffic facility for your airport. This is normally
    the associated FSS identified in the A/FD. If you encounter
    difficulty in contacting the FSS identified in the AF/D, you may
    call the US NOTAM Office at 877-4US-NTMS (877-487-6867). The US
    NOTAM Office will route the call to the proper flight service
    center. FSS facility managers are required to ensure that lists of
    airport employees authorized to issue NOTAMs are available and kept
    current. To avoid delays in NOTAM dissemination, you should assist
    the FSS in keeping your airport\'s list of authorized personnel up
    to date.

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d.  **Allowing Verification.** When using the above filing method, be
    sure that you provide the air traffic facility receiving your NOTAM
    submission with the name, position, title (if appropriate), address,
    and telephone number of a responsible airport official who the FSS
    should contact if confirmation of the NOTAM information is required.
    If you phone in your message, you should ask for the operating
    initials of the FSS specialist who receives your call and the number
    assigned to the NOTAM. Allow a minimum of thirty minutes for the FSS
    specialist to format and input the NOTAM into the NOTAM system. Call
    the FSS back to get the current NOTAM and NOTAM number. Each
    specialist is officially identified in the facility by operating
    initials. Knowing the initials and NOTAM number will make follow-up
    or other reference easier. Airport personnel can review their NOTAMs
    on the FAA website at:
    <http://www.faa.gov/airports_airtraffic/air_traffic/publications/notices/>.

e.  Airport operators are responsible for canceling NOTAMS that are no
    longer applicable to airport facilities.

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14. **PUBLISHING CRITERIA FOR AIRPORT NOTAMs.** The following conditions
    or categories of information are the basis for NOTAMs:

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a.  FAA ATC facilities. Commissioning, decommissioning, or changes in
    hours of operation.

b.  Surface areas/airspace. Changes in hours of operations, hazards such
    as pavement issues, wildlife, snow, surface conditions, etc.

c.  Weather reporting stations. Commissioning, decommissioning, failure,
    non-availability or unreliable operations.

d.  Public airports. Commissioning, decommissioning, openings, closings,
    and abandonments.

e.  Aircraft rescue and fire fighting (ARFF) capability. Restrictions to
    air carrier operations.

f.  Changes to runway identifiers, dimensions threshold placements, and
    surface compositions.

g.  NAS lighting systems. Commissioning, decommissioning, outages,
    change in classification or operation.

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(1) Approach Lighting System (ALS)

(2) Runway Lights/Runway Edge Lights (RWY LGT)

(3) Touchdown Zone Lighting (TDZ LGT)

(4) Runway Center Line Lights (RCLL)

(5) Runway End Identifier Lights (REIL)

(6) Visual Approach Slope Indicator (VASI)

(7) Precision Approach Path Indicator (PAPI)

(8) Boundary Lights

**Reference:**

*Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM*)

FAA Order 7930.2, *Notices to Airmen (NOTAMS)*

15. **SPECIAL REPORTING CONSIDERATIONS FOR CONDITIONS, SUCH AS BRAKING
    ACTION, WINTER CONDITIONS, RUNWAY LIGHT OBSCURATION, OBSTRUCTIONS,
    AND OBSTRUCTION LIGHTS.** The following conditions require special
    care when composing NOTAM messages to ensure that they provide the
    maximum benefit to the NOTAM system user and do not include
    misleading statements.

**NOTE:** *All keywords are in bold and underlined text for reference
only.*

a.  **Friction Measurement.**[^4] If friction-measuring equipment is
    used, friction value (MU) readings are issued for each third for all
    active runways. Do not combine runways into a single NOTAM. NOTAMs
    are not issued if all readings are above 40. If a NOTAM was
    previously issued and the airport manager finds that readings are
    above 40, the previous NOTAM must be cancelled. Include the
    abbreviation of the name of the FAA approved friction measuring
    device and the effective time.

> Friction Measuring Equipment Abbreviations:

-   BOW Bowmonk Decelerometer (Bowmonk Sales)

-   BRD Brakementer−Dynometer

-   ERD Electronic Recording Decelerometer (Bowmonk)

-   GRT Griptester (Findlay, Irvine, LTD)

-   MUM Mark 6 Mu Meter (Douglas Equipment LTD)

-   RFT Runway friction tester (K.J. LAW Engineers)

-   SFH Surface friction tester (high pressure tire) (SAAB, Airport
    Surface Friction Tester AB)

-   SFL Surface friction tester (low pressure tire) (SAAB, Airport
    Surface Friction Tester AB)

-   SKH Skiddometer (high pressure tire) (AEC, Airport Equipment Co.)

-   SKL Skiddometer (low pressure tire) (AEC, Airport Equipment Co.)

-   TAP Tapley Decelerometer (Tapley Sales)

-   VER Vericom (VC3000)

(1) **Example:**

> !DCA DCA **[RWY]{.underline}** 1/19 BOW MU 20/20/20 WEF 0712121000

(2) If the equipment used to obtain these readings becomes
    unserviceable, a NOTAM should be issued until the equipment is
    restored to service.

> **Example:** !DCA DCA **[SVC]{.underline}** MU OTS

b.  **Braking Action.**[^5] When reported by airport management, braking
    action is described as "fair," "poor," and "nil." Classify braking
    action according to the most critical term used. "Good" braking
    action is not a reportable condition. When reporting braking action,
    do not give the type of vehicle making the report. Include the
    observed time of the braking action in the NOTAM.

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(1) **Example:**

> !ANC ANC **[RWY]{.underline}** 14/32 BA POOR WEF 0702061500

(2) **Example:**

> !ANC Z15 **[RWY]{.underline}** 1/19 BA NIL WEF 0709041100

The FSS should process a braking action report from a landing aircraft
as a pilot report (PIREP). Combining airport management and PIREP
information is appropriate only with airport management authorization.

c.  **Winter Conditions.** When reporting winter conditions, use the
    following sequence to assist the FSS in formatting the NOTAM: runway
    affected, coverage, depth, and condition. These terms are defined in
    Appendix A.

d.  **Depth of Snow.** When reporting the depth of snow, frozen slush,
    etc. on the runway or taxiway, express it in terms of thin (less
    than 1/4 inch), 1/4 inch, 1/2 inch, and 1 inch. After 1 inch, report
    additional accumulation in whole inches and discontinue the use of
    fractions. If a variable depth is encountered, such as 3 to 5
    inches, report the greater depth. After a snow depth of 35 inches is
    reached, report additional amounts in whole feet only.

> **NOTE:** *The term "BARE" is not to be used in NOTAMs.*

(1) **Example:**

> !FAI INR **[RWY]{.underline}** 16/34 18 IN LSR WEF 0711250900
>
> **Translation:** McKinley Park's runways 16 and 34 have 18 inches of
> loose snow covering the runways.

e.  **Plowed Runways.** When reporting a portion of a runway plowed
    (PLW), give the width plowed in feet and its condition if not
    entirely cleared. Describing the plowed portion in terms of
    percentages or fractions of the surface is likely to be misleading
    and should be avoided. A plowed report is used only if a portion of
    the surface is plowed. If the whole surface has been plowed, PLW is
    not used although the surface condition (such as Snow and Ice on
    Runway (SIR)) might still be appropriate. PLW/Swept is used when
    indicating that a portion of a surface is plowed or swept and is
    either bare or has depth, coverage, and conditions different than
    the surrounding area. When known, the surrounding area will be
    specified as RMNDR and listed after the plowed information.
    Plowed/Swept is omitted when the entire runway, taxiway, ramp, or
    apron has been plowed. For example, a 150 foot wide runway that has
    been plowed for the center 100 feet along its entire length and that
    inside 100-foot strip is covered with 1/2 inch of packed snow and
    ice, would be reported as the following:

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(1) **Example:**

> !OQU OQU **[RWY]{.underline}** 16/34 PLW 100 WIDE RMNDR 1/2 IN SIR WEF
> 0711132112
>
> **Translation:** Quonset State's runway is wider than 100 feet and the
> area inside the center 100 feet is bare. The ½-inch of packed or
> compacted snow and ice (SIR) is outside the plowed area.

(2) **Example:**

> !MOT MOT **[TWY]{.underline}** ALL PLW 50 WIDE RMNDR 6 IN LOOSE SN WEF
> 0712202200

(3) **Example:**

> !MEM MEM **[RAMP]{.underline}** FEDEX FEEDER RAMP PTCHY THN ICE WEF
> 0712202000

(4) **Example:**

> !BNA BNA **[APRON]{.underline}** AIR CARGO APRON EAST 1000 PLW WEF
> 0712201200

f.  **Runway Sanding or Deicing.** When reporting a runway treated by
    sanding or deicing, the entire published dimensions of the surface
    are assumed to be treated unless qualifying length/width information
    is also given. When deicing is reported, also report the material
    used as either solid or liquid, as this may have operational
    significance to the pilot. An example of an icy runway sanded for a
    portion of its surface is:

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(1) **Example :**

> !MGW MGW **[RWY]{.underline}** 18/36 1/2 IN IR SA WEF 0712061530
>
> **Translation:** 1/2 inch of ice on the runway 18/36 with the entire
> runway sanded.

(2) **Example:**

> **!**YAK YAK **[RWY]{.underline}** 11/29 THN SIR SA 80 WIDE RMNDR BA
> POOR WEF 0712231100
>
> **Translation:** Less than the full width of the runway is sanded, and
> the condition outside of the sanded area has poor braking action.

(3) An example of a full runway deicing is:

> !IAD IAD **[RWY]{.underline}** 12/30 DEICED LIQUID WEF 0712251700
>
> !IAD IAD **[RWY]{.underline}** 12/30 DEICED SOLID WEF 0712251700

g.  **Snowbanks.** When reporting snowbanks, indicate when the depth is
    greater than 12 inches and location of the snow bank. Remember that
    unless specified otherwise, it is assumed that snowbanks are at the
    edge of the movement area or, when PLW is used, at the edge of the
    plowed area.

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(1) **Example:**

> !BTV BTV **[RWY]{.underline}** 15/33 3 IN SN 24 IN SNBNK WEF
> 0712251700

(2) **Example:**

> !BTV BTV **[RWY]{.underline}** 15/33 3 IN LSR PLW 100 WIDE 24 IN SNBNK
> WEF 0712251700

h.  **Continuous Snow Removal Operations on Multiple Runways.** A single
    NOTAM may be issued for continuous snow on alternating runways when
    all of the following conditions are met:

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(1) The air traffic control tower is in operation during the valid
    period of the NOTAM.

(2) Anticipated alternating closure time for each runway is two hours or
    less.

(3) Maximum valid time is limited to the period of continuous
    alternating snow removal.

(4) Operations are based on a Letter of Agreement between airport
    management and the FSS and Air Traffic Control Tower.

> **Examples:**

-   !DEN DEN **[RWY]{.underline}** ALL RWYS ALTNLY CLSD SNOW REMOVAL WEF
    0710231500

-   !SLC SLC **[RWY]{.underline}** INST RWYS ALTNLY CLSD SNOW REMOVAL
    WEF 0711241600

-   !DEN DEN **[RWY]{.underline}** ALL RWYS ALTNLY CLSD ICE REMOVAL WEF
    0712251700

-   !SLC SLC **[RWY]{.underline}** INST RWYS ALTNLY CLSD ICE REMOVAL WEF
    0711261800

i.  **Runway Light Obscuration.** When reporting runway light
    obscuration due to snow and ice, report only the lights that are
    completely obscured. Lights that are partially obscured should not
    be reported. Be specific about which lights are affected, such as
    the last 2000 feet of Runway 9. Do not report the reason for the
    obscuration; it is assumed from the context of the report.

**Example:** !BTV BTV **[RWY]{.underline}** LGTS OBSC WEF
0710131300-0710132000

j.  **Runway Lights.**

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(1) **Runway Centerline Lights (RCLL).**

> **Example:** !ATL ATL **[RWY]{.underline}** 8R/26L RCLL OTS

(2) **Touchdown Zone Lights (TDZ LGT).**

> **Example:** !ATL ATL **[RWY]{.underline}** 8R TDZ LGT OTS

(3) **Runway Edge Lights.** Once commissioned and published, runway edge
    lights must only be shown as RWY LGTS.

> **Example:** !ATL ATL RWY 8R/26L RWY LGTS OTS

(4) **Airport total runway power failure.** Note the use of the keyword,
    AD.

> **Example:** !SPA SPA **[AD]{.underline}** LGT OTS

(5) **Pilot controlled lighting (PCL).** When used for controlling
    runway or approach lights. Note the use of keywords.

> **Examples:**

-   !SBY SBY **[SVC]{.underline}** PCL OTS

-   !SBY SBY **[SVC]{.underline}** NOW 122.8

-   !BFD 8G5 **[RWY]{.underline}** 18/36 RWY LGTS PCL OTS

k.  **Runway Cracks and Ruts.**

> **(1) Example:**
>
> !ORT TSG **[RWY]{.underline}** 12/30 NMRS 6 IN CRACKS WEF 0712251700
>
> **(2) Example:**
>
> !TAL TAL **[RWY]{.underline}** 6/24 4 IN RUTS W 1000 WEF 0712251700

l.  **Lighted Signage.**

> **Examples:**

-   !ABQ ELP **[RWY]{.underline}** 4 TWY M SIGN UNLGTD

-   !SEA SEA RWY 16R STOP BAR LGT OTS

m.  **Taxiway and taxiway centerline lights.**

> **Examples:**

-   !SHD SHD **[TWY]{.underline}** ALL TWY LGTS OTS

-   !ROA ROA **[TWY]{.underline}** A CNTRLN LGTS OTS FRM A TO D

n.  **Runway Thresholds.** When reporting the relocation or displacement
    of a threshold, avoid language that confuses the two. Standard NOTAM
    phraseology includes a temporary threshold displacement. Report
    threshold relocation as closure of a portion of the runway until the
    actual physical appearance is altered so the closed runway segment
    no longer looks like a landing area. If appropriate, request the FSS
    to insert a reopening date, and remember that you are obligated to
    track that date and revise or cancel it as necessary.

**Example:** !ALS ALS **[RWY]{.underline}** 20 THR DSPLCD 600 NONSTD
MARKING

**Translation:** The first 600 feet of runway 20 is closed to landing
aircraft. Aircraft departing on runway 20 or landing or departing runway
2 may use the full length. The threshold displacement is marked by
nonstandard markings*.*

o.  **Obstructions and Obstruction Lights.** Types of obstructions are
    towers, cranes, stacks, etc. Height is identified as MSL (when
    known) and AGL. LGTS OTS refers to a top light or flashing
    obstruction light regardless of its position. Cranes marked by a
    flag or when the boom is lowered during the night hours do not
    require the issuance of a NOTAM. Obstruction lights on terrain
    (hills) are identified as MSL only. When reporting an obstruction or
    obstruction light(s) failure located within the airport boundaries,
    identify the outage per the following:

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(1) Height (see Appendix A, paragraph d, Altitude and Height),

(2) Distance from the Airport Reference Point (ARP) (nautical miles),
    and

(3) Direction from the Airport Reference Point (ARP) (16 point compass:
    N; NNE; NE; ENE; E; ESE; SE; SSE; S; SSW; SW; WSW; W; WNW; NW; NNW).

(4) Tower registration number or ASR number (if applicable). The tower
    registration number can be found at:
    [wireless2.fcc.gov/UlsApp/AsrSearch/asrRegistrationSearch.jsp](http://wireless2.fcc.gov/UlsApp/AsrSearch/asrRegistrationSearch.jsp)

Obstruction light outages that meet one or more of the following
criteria must include a return-to-service time:

(5) All obstruction light outages within a 5-statute mile (4.3 nautical
    miles) radius of an airport, or obstruction light outages outside a
    5-statute mile radius that exceed 200 feet above ground level (AGL).

**Examples:**

-   !MIV N52 **[OBST]{.underline}** TOWER 580 (195 AGL) 1.44 SW LGTS OTS
    (ASR NUMBER) TIL 0811302300

-   !GSP GSP **[OBST]{.underline}** TOWER 1528 (564 AGL) 12 E LGTS OTS
    (ASR NUMBER) TIL 0810291930

-   !PWK PWK **[OBST]{.underline}** TOWER 1049 (330 AGL) OBK014007 LGTS
    OTS (ASR NUMBER) TIL 0809301915

(6) Location is within 500 feet either side of the centerline of a
    charted helicopter route. Use a fix-radial-distance as the reference
    point with the affected location being the nearest public-use
    airport in your flight plan area.

**Examples:**

-   !MIV 2N6 **[OBST]{.underline}** TOWER 314 (231 AGL) 4.3 NNW LGTS OTS
    (ASR 1055889) TIL **0711**302300

The ASR number should be obtained from the tower owner when the outage
is called in, and will be put in the text of the NOTAM. The ASR number
may also be obtained from the FCC website at:
[wireless2.fcc.gov/UlsApp/AsrSearch/asrRegistrationSearch.jsp](http://wireless2.fcc.gov/UlsApp/AsrSearch/asrRegistrationSearch.jsp).

See AC 70/7460-1, *Obstruction Lighting and Marking,* for additional
guidance about obstruction light failure notification requirements.

**Example:**

-   !MIV 06/001 2N6 **[OBST]{.underline}** TOWER 314 (231 AGL) 4.3 NNW
    LGTS OTS (ASR 1055889) TIL 0712302300

p.  **Off-airport Obstructions.** Persons or organizations that operate
    an obstruction must report the improper functioning of any
    obstruction light or lights immediately by telephone to the nearest
    local FSS or by calling the US NOTAMS Office at 877-4US-NTMS
    (877-487-6867). The US NOTAM Office will route the call to the
    appropriate FSS. Callers should be prepared to provide the tower
    registration number (ASR number) and the name of the nearest
    airport.

q.  Reporting the operating status of obstruction lights on
    communication towers is the responsibility of the communication
    tower operator (47 CFR § 17.48).

r.  If there is a report of an obstruction light outage on a tower
    outside the airport, airport personnel with the responsibility of
    initiating NOTAMs should first check that for any existing Flight
    Safety NOTAMs via the FSS or at:
    [https://pilotweb.nas.faa.gov](https://pilotweb.nas.faa.gov/). If a
    NOTAM is not found, contact and advise the tower operator about the
    outage. If the tower operator is not known, the information can be
    found at the FCC website:
    [wireless2.fcc.gov/UlsApp/AsrSearch/asrRegistrationSearch.jsp](http://wireless2.fcc.gov/UlsApp/AsrSearch/asrRegistrationSearch.jsp).

**16. Personnel and Equipment Working.** Any NOTAM associated with
Personnel and Equipment Working (PAEW) on or adjacent to a runway,
taxiway, ramp, or apron must begin with one of the following keywords:
RWY, TWY, RAMP, or APRON. Additionally, the appropriate direction should
be specified. This criteria is used for runway checks and other events
of short durations. Otherwise the runway should be closed.

> **Examples:**

-   !IAD IAD RWY 1L/19R PAEW

-   !IAD IAD RWY 1L/19R PAEW ADJ

-   !CHO CHO RWY 23 PAEW FIRST 500 ALONG SE SIDE

-   !SBY SBY TWY E PAEW SOUTH SIDE BTN RWY 5 / TWY G

-   !MEM MEM RAMP WEST FEDEX FEEDER RAMP PAEW TIL 0712260400

-   !BNA BNA APRON AIR CARGO APRON PAEW TIL 0712232000

**17. Certificated Airport Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting.** NOTAM
(D) for airports (not runways) certificated under 14 CFR Part 139 is
required when ARFF equipment is inoperative/unavailable and replacement
equipment is not available. Except as indicated in Part 139.319(c),
airport management has 48 hours to replace or substitute equipment
before the index changes. Air carriers and others must be notified that
ARFF equipment is out of service. Airport management is responsible for
providing an ending time for each NOTAM. If airport management does not
furnish an ending time, the specialist at the FSS will add 48 hours to
the time of receipt and advise.

a.  **ARFF Index.** The ARFF Index for each certificated airport is
    published in the AF/D. Legend item 16 in the AF/D lists indicates
    Index and ARFF equipment requirements. ARFF Index Limited is not a
    NOTAM. At certificated airports listed in the AF/D, the certificate
    holder (airport management) is required to notify air carriers by
    NOTAM when required ARFF equipment is inoperative/unavailable and
    replacement equipment is not available immediately. If the required
    Index level of capability is not restored within 48 hours, airport
    management is required to limit air carrier operations to those
    compatible with the index corresponding to the remaining operative
    rescue and firefighting equipment.

b.  Permanent changes to the ARFF Index occurring during publication
    cycles are issued as FDC NOTAMs.

> **Examples** (note the use of the keyword, **[SVC]{.underline}):**

-   !FTW FTW **[SVC]{.underline}** ARFF VEHICLE OTS INDEX

> UNCHANGED TIL 0710242100

-   !FTW FTW **[SVC]{.underline}** ARFF VEHICLE OTS INDEX

> UNCHANGED TIL 0709072200

c.  If the ARFF vehicle is still out of service after 48 hours, the
    airport manager must notify the AFSS/FSS of a temporary index change
    and approximate duration time.

> **Example:**
>
> !FTW FTW **[SVC]{.underline}** ARFF NOW INDEX A TIL 0709072300
>
> **Translation:** Though the ARFF Index is now A, four or less Index B
> aircraft may still operate into Fort Worth.

d.  If the ARFF Index is listed in the AF/D as A and the ARFF vehicle is
    out of service:

> **Example:** !STS STS **[SVC]{.underline}** ARFF UNAVBL/AP CLSD TO ACR
> MORE THAN 30 PAX

**18. DISSEMINATION OF NOTAMs.** While airport operators are not
responsible for determining how a NOTAM is disseminated, they should be
aware of the criteria that the FSS must apply in making that
determination. As a general rule, the actual circulation that an airport
condition report receives results from the nature of the reported item
and the NOTAM service qualification of the airport (see Appendix A,
NOTAM Subject Categories). Exceptions to this rule are noted in
subparagraphs (1) and (2) below.

a.  **(D) Distant NOTAMs.** NOTAM (D) information is distributed for all
    public use airports, seaplane bases, and heliports listed in the
    Airport/Facility Directory (A/FD) and all navigational facilities
    that are part of the NAS. NOTAM (D) is distributed automatically.
    However, distribution to designated civil airport authorities is
    accomplished through Air Traffic Control or the tie-in FSS via
    letters of agreement. Air traffic facilities, primarily FSSs, have
    access to the entire database of NOTAMs. These NOTAMs remain
    available for the duration of their validity or until published.

The complete file of all NOTAM (D) information is maintained in a
computer database at the Weather Message Switching Center (WMSC) located
in Atlanta, Georgia, and the Master US NOTAM System (USNS) database
located in Herndon, Virginia.

(1) Airports listed in the Alaskan and Pacific supplements are not
    qualified for NOTAM (D) dissemination except for those annotated
    with a symbol. Conditions on non-NOTAM (D) airports, listed in these
    supplements, are transmitted one time to adjacent FSS facilities.

(2) Exceptions to the rule involve FDC NOTAMs and Special Data NOTAMs.
    These NOTAMs are used primarily to advertise NAS changes and
    regulatory material. The origination and processing of these items
    are normally within the purview of FAA personnel, and the applicable
    procedures in FAA instructions are not repeated here. Operators of
    airports affected by 14 CFR Part 139, *Certification of Airports*,
    49 CFR Part 1542, *Airport Security,* and 49 CFR Part 1544,
    *Aircraft Operator Security: Air Carriers and Commercial Operators,*
    may, however, have special reporting responsibilities covered by
    instructions contained in those regulations and the Airport
    Certification Manual.

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b.  **Local NOTAMs.** NOTAM (L) information is now classified as
    NOTAM (D) information.

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19. **EXTENDED PERIOD NOTAMs.** To reduce data circuit congestion, the
    FAA publishes NOTAM information that is expected to remain in effect
    for extended periods (more than 7 calendar days) in the *Notices to
    Airmen Publication (NTAP)* issued every 28 days. The most recently
    published NTAP is available on the FAA web site at
    [www.faa.gov/airports_airtraffic/air_traffic/publications/notices/](http://www.faa.gov/airports_airtraffic/air_traffic/publications/notices/)*[.]{.underline}*

20. **AIRPORT RECORDS AND CONTROLS.** You should keep and maintain a log
    of NOTAMs that you originate so that at all times you are aware of
    how your airport is represented to the aviation public. You should
    make the NOTAM status of your airport a regular checklist item in
    the daily routine. Also, you should arrange to obtain a copy of the
    NOTAM as transmitted for future reference and to demonstrate
    regulatory compliance where this is a factor. The provision of
    transmitted NOTAMs is not a routine FSS function and will have to be
    arranged through a mutually acceptable local agreement. Current
    NOTAMs are available on the FAA web site. Additionally, airports
    certificated under 14 CFR Part 139 may have requirements for
    maintaining records.

21. **QUESTIONS AND COMMENTS.** If you have questions about this AC,
    contact:

> Federal Aviation Administration
>
> Office of Airport Safety and Standards
>
> Airport Safety and Compliance Division, AAS-300
>
> 800 Independence Avenue, SW
>
> Washington, DC 20591
>
> Telephone (202) 267-3085

Comments and suggestions for changing or improving this AC should be
submitted in writing.

![](media/image2.jpeg){width="2.486111111111111in"
height="0.8611111111111112in"}

Wayne T. Heibeck

Acting Director of Airport Safety and Standards

**Intentionally left blank.**

**APPENDIX A. TECHNICAL TERMS---DEFINITIONS AND USAGE.**

1.  **EXPLANATION AND REFERENCES.** Technical terms and contractions
    used in this AC, and needed for the preparation of NOTAM material,
    have been extracted from several sources. Some of the sources are
    internal FAA directives or technical publications not always readily
    available to airport personnel. For optimum utility of this AC, the
    most critical and/or most frequently used terms and contractions are
    explained in this appendix. The source of the term or contraction is
    shown in brackets and italics following the explanation. While every
    effort will be made to update this listing, there may be times when
    a new or revised term or contraction is published in one of the
    reference sources before this appendix can be changed. In the event
    of an apparent conflict, the user should compare the dates of the
    reference document and the appropriate page(s) of this appendix and
    follow the latest version.

**REFERENCES:**

*Pilot/Controller Glossary (P/CG)*

*Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM)*

FAA Order 7110.10, *Flight Service*

FAA Order 7340.1*, Contractions*

FAA Order 7350.7, *Location Identifiers*

FAA Order 7930.2, *Notices to Airmen* (NOTAMS)

2.  **DEFINITIONS.**

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a.  **AIR NAVIGATION FACILITY (ANF).** Any facility used in, available
    for use in, or designed for use in, aid of air navigation, including
    landing areas; lights, any apparatus or equipment for disseminating
    weather information, for signaling, for radio-directional finding,
    or for radio or other electrical communication, and any other
    structure or mechanism having a similar purpose for guiding or
    controlling flight in the air or the landing and take-off of
    aircraft. *\[AIM, FAA Order 7110.10\]*

b.  **AIRPORT/FACILITY DIRECTORY, UNITED STATES (A/FD).** A publication
    designed primarily as a pilot\'s operational manual containing all
    airports, seaplane bases, and heliports open to the public including
    communications data, navigational facilities, and certain special
    notices and procedures. This publication is issued in seven volumes
    according to geographical area. It can be purchased by subscription
    from the National Ocean Service (NOS). A copy is normally available
    in the FSS for reference. These volumes have green covers. See
    Supplement-Alaska and Pacific. *\[AIM, FAA Orders 7110.10 and
    7930.2\]*

c.  **AIRPORT REFERENCE POINT (ARP).** The approximate geometric center
    of all usable runway surfaces. It is the latitude and longitude of
    the approximate center of the airport.

d.  **ALTITUDE AND HEIGHT.** Vertical distance expressed as feet above
    mean sea level (MSL) through 17,999 feet and flight levels (FL) for
    18,000 feet and above. Feet and MSL are not written in the NOTAM.
    When MSL is not known, specify by writing AGL (above ground level);
    e.g., 1304 AGL, etc.

Format:

2500 = 2,500 feet above mean sea level.

FL 250 = 25,000 feet above mean sea level.

2500 AGL = 2,500 feet above ground level.

e.  **CERTIFICATED AIRPORT.** An airport certificated under 14 CFR Part
    139 serving:

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(1) Scheduled passenger-carrying operations of an air carrier operating
    aircraft designed for more than 9 passenger seats, and

(2) Unscheduled passenger-carrying operations of an air carrier
    operating aircraft designed for at least 31 passenger seats.

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f.  **COORDINATED UNIVERSAL TIME (UTC).** See Time.

g.  **FLIGHT SERVICE STATION (FSS).** Air traffic facilities which
    provide pilot briefing, en route communications, and visual flight
    rules (VFR) search and rescue services; assist lost aircraft and
    aircraft in emergency situations; relay ATC clearances; originate
    NOTAMs; broadcasts aviation weather and NAS information; receive and
    process IFR flight plans; and monitor NAVAIDS. In addition, at
    selected locations, FSSs provide En Route Flight Advisory Service
    (Flight Watch), issue airport advisories, and advise Customs and
    Immigration of trans-border flights. In the A/FD airport listings,
    the associated FSS is shown under the COMMUNICATIONS heading along
    with its local or toll-free telephone number. *\[FAA Order
    7110.10\]*

h.  **LOCATION IDENTIFIERS.** Sets of characters composed of letters, or
    letters and numbers that take the place of the name and location of
    an airport, navigational aid, weather station, or manned ATC
    facility. Identifiers are used in air traffic control,
    telecommunications, computer programming, weather reports, and
    related services. Airports are assigned location identifiers
    according to specified criteria. Identifiers are composed of three
    letters, one number and two letters, one letter and two numbers, or
    two letters and two numbers. Identifiers are published in FAA Order
    7350.7, *Location Identifiers*. In the A/FD airport listings, the
    airport identifier is set in parentheses following the airport name.
    *\[FAA Order 7350.7\]*

i.  **MILES (MI).** Nautical miles unless otherwise stated. *\[FAA Order
    7930.2\]*

j.  **NATIONAL AIRSPACE SYSTEM (NAS).** The common network of U.S.
    airspace; air navigation facilities, equipment, and services;
    airports or landing areas; aeronautical charts, information, and
    services; rules, regulations, and procedures; technical information;
    and manpower and material. Included are system components shared
    jointly with the military. *\[FAA Order 7110.10\]*

k.  **NATIONAL FLIGHT DATA CENTER (NFDC).** A facility in Washington,
    DC, established by the FAA to operate a central aeronautical
    information service for the collection, validation, and
    dissemination of aeronautical data in support of the activities of
    government, industry, and the aviation community. The NFDC monitors
    the NOTAM system for compliance with established criteria and
    procedures. *\[FAA Orders 7110.10 and 7930.2\]*

l.  **NAVIGATIONAL AID (NAVAID).** Any visual or electronic device
    airborne or on the surface that provides point-to-point guidance
    information or position data to aircraft in flight. *\[FAA Order
    7110.10\]*

m.  **NOTAM DISSEMINATION CLASSIFICATIONS.** Classifications into which
    NOTAMs are grouped according to the dissemination they receive.
    *\[FAA Order 7930.2\]*

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(1) **Distant Dissemination (D).** A NOTAM given distant dissemination
    beyond the area of responsibility of the Flight Service Station.
    These NOTAMs are stored and available until cancelled. Local
    Dissemination (L) NOTAMs are now classified as (D) NOTAMs. (D)
    NOTAMS must use one of twelve keywords (see Appendix B for *\[FAA
    Orders 7110.10 and 7930.2\]*

(2) **Flight Data Center (FDC) Dissemination.** Accomplished by the
    National Flight Data Center (NFDC) to give system wide
    dissemination. *\[FAA Order 7110.10\]*

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n.  **NOTAM SUBJECT CATEGORIES.** Categories into which NOTAMs are
    divided according to their subject area. They are as follows:

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(1) Movement Area NOTAMs.

(2) Lighting Aid NOTAMs.

(3) Air Navigation Aid (NAVAID) NOTAMs.

(4) Communications Outlets NOTAMs.

(5) Services NOTAMs.

(6) Special Data NOTAMs.

(7) Flight Data Center (FDC) NOTAMs. *\[FAA Order 7930.2\]*

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o.  **NOTICE TO AIRMEN (NOTAM).** A notice containing information (not
    known sufficiently in advance to publicize by other means)
    concerning the establishment, condition, or change in any component
    (facility, service, or procedure) of, or hazard in, the National
    Airspace System (NAS); the timely knowledge of which is essential to
    personnel concerned with flight operations. *\[AIM, FAA Order
    7930.2\]*

p.  **PATCHY (PTCHY).** Reported condition of a landing area not
    completely covered should be described as having patches of snow,
    ice, etc. The term is used in conjunction with the description for
    the surface contaminant and depth. Example: PTCHY 1/2 IN SN. *\[FAA
    Order 7930.2\]*

q.  **PILOT REPORT (PIREP).** A report of a meteorological phenomena
    encountered by aircraft in flight and on the ground.

r.  **PUBLIC USE.** Refers to an airport that is available for use by
    the general public without a requirement for prior approval of the
    owner or operator.

s.  **SNOW, ICE, SLUSH, AND WATER CONDITIONS**

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(1) **Measurement.** The depth is always expressed in terms of thin
    (less than 1/4 inch), 1/4 inch, 1/2 inch, and 1 inch. When 1 inch is
    reached, additional reports should be in multiples of 1 inch and the
    use of fractions discontinued. If a variable amount is reported,
    such as 3 to 5 inches, show the greater depth. When a snow depth of
    35 inches is reached, additional reports should be in multiples of
    feet only. If a report is halfway between two reportable values,
    roundoff to the next higher reportable value.

(2) **Coverage.** Do not express the condition in terms of percentage of
    coverage. A surface not completely covered should be described as
    having patches of snow, ice, etc.; e.g., PTCHY 1/2 IN SN (surface).
    The absence of a described surface indicates the entire landing
    area. *\[FAA Order 7930.2\]* Also see Patchy.

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t.  **SUPPLEMENT-ALASKA AND PACIFIC.** Joint civil military flight
    information publications similar to the Airport/Facility Directory
    in purpose, format, and content. The Alaska Supplement has a salmon
    colored cover and the Pacific Supplement has a blue cover. The
    issuing authority agreements include the Department of Defense.
    *\[FAA Order 7930.2\]*

u.  **TIME.** FAA uses Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) for all
    operations. UTC is stated in 10-digits (year, month, day, hour and
    minute). Four digits represent the hour and minutes. The word
    \"local\" or the time zone equivalent is used to denote local when
    local time is given during radio and telephone communications. When
    written, a time zone designator is used to indicate local time; e.g.
    \"0205M\" (Mountain). The local time may be based on the 24-hour
    clock system. For NOTAM system purposes the day begins at 0000 and
    ends at 2359. **NOTE:** *The end-of-day time expressed as 2400 may
    be encountered in other, non-NOTAM, contexts in aviation
    communications. The terms sunrise and sunset **are not used** as
    expressions of time in reporting NOTAM data.*

Format:

0612251630 = 4:30 pm, December 25, 2006. (UTC)

0611080700 = 7:00 am, November 8, 2006

*\[P/CG, FAA Orders 7110.10 and 7930.2\]*

v.  **VIRGULE(/).** Read as the word "and" when used in NOTAM text.

w.  **WEEKDAYS (WKDAYS).** Monday through Friday. *\[FAA Order 7930.2\]*

x.  **WEEKEND (WKEND).** Saturday and Sunday. *\[FAA Order 7930.2\]*

**APPENDIX B. AUTHORIZED CONTRACTIONS AND ABBREVIATIONS.**

1.  **FACILITIES AND THEIR CONTRACTIONS.** In NOTAM composition,
    authorized contractions and abbreviations are to be used to minimize
    message length and maximize clarity. The Facilities listed in this
    appendix have been extracted from various reference sources. This
    listing is not intended to be all-inclusive but should satisfy most
    of the needs of airport operators who originate NOTAMs. The
    facilities are grouped according to the NOTAM Subject Categories
    shown in Appendix A. While every effort will be made to update this
    listing, there may be times when a new or revised term or
    contraction is published in one of the reference sources before this
    appendix can be changed. In the event of an apparent conflict, you
    should compare the dates of the reference document and the
    appropriate page(s) of this appendix and follow the latest version.

**REFERENCES:**

*Pilot/Controller Glossary (P/CG)*

FAA Order 7340.1, *Contractions*

FAA Order 7930.2, *Notices to Airmen (NOTAMS).*

2.  **MOVEMENT AREA.**

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a.  Airport Surfaces.

  ----------------------------------------------------- -----------------
  Aerodrome (keyword)                                   AD

  Airport                                               AP

  Apron (keyword)                                       APRON

  Safety Area[^6]                                       \-\--

  Ramp (keyword)                                        RAMP

  Runway (keyword)                                      RWY

  Taxiway (keyword)                                     TWY
  ----------------------------------------------------- -----------------

b.  Surface Composition.

  ----------------------------------------------------- -----------------
  Asphalt/tar                                           ASPH

  Concrete                                              CONC

  Gravel                                                GRVL

  Turf^7^                                               TURF
  ----------------------------------------------------- -----------------

3.  **LIGHTING AIDS.**

  ----------------------------------------------------- -----------------
  Airport Beacon                                        ABN

  Approach Lighting System                              ALS

  Approach Lighting System with Sequenced Flashers in   ALSF-1
  ILS Cat-I                                             

  Approach Lighting System with Sequenced Flashers in   ALSF-2
  ILS Cat-II. The ALSF-2 may operate as an SSALR when   
  weather conditions permit.                            

  Approach Lighting System, Medium Intensity            MALS

  Approach Lighting System, Medium Intensity with       MALSF
  Sequence Flashers                                     

  Approach Lighting System, Medium Intensity with       MALSR
  Runway Alignment Indicator Lights                     

  Light                                                 LGT

  Obstruction                                           OBST

  Obstruction Light                                     OBST LGT

  Omnidirectional Approach Lighting Systems             ODALS

  Pilot Controlled Lighting                             PCL

  Precision Approach Path Indicator                     PAPI

  Runway Alignment Indicator Lights                     RAIL

  Runway Center Line Lights                             RCLL

  Runway End Identifier Lights                          REIL

  Runway Lead-in Light System                           RLLS

  Runway Lights, High Intensity                         HIRL

  Runway Lights, Low Intensity                          LIRL

  Runway Lights, Medium Intensity                       MIRL

  Sequenced Flashing Lights                             SFL

  Simplified Short Approach Lighting with Sequenced     SSALF
  Flashers                                              

  Simplified Short Approach Lighting with Runway        SSALR
  Alignment Indicator Lights                            

  Simplified Short Approach Lighting System             SSALS

  Touchdown Zone Lights                                 TDZ LGT

  Visual Approach Slope Indicator                       VASI
  ----------------------------------------------------- -----------------

4.  AIR NAVIGATION AIDS.

  ----------------------------------------------------- -----------------
  Azimuth                                               AZM

  Compass Locator at ILS Middle Marker                  LM

  Compass Locator at ILS Outer Marker                   LO

  Distance Measuring Equipment                          DME

  Elevation                                             ELEV

  Fan Marker                                            FAN MKR

  Glide Path                                            GP

  Global Positioning System                             GPS

  Inner Marker                                          IM

  Instrument Landing System                             ILS

  Localizer                                             LLZ

  Localizer Type Directional Aid                        LDA

  Microwave Landing System                              MLS

  Middle Marker                                         MM

  Nondirectional Radio Beacon                           NDB

  Outer Marker                                          OM

  Runway Visual Range                                   RVR

  Simplified Directional Facility                       SDF

  Tactical Air Navigational Aid (Azimuth and DME)       TACAN

  VHF Omnidirectional Radio Range                       VOR
  ----------------------------------------------------- -----------------

5.  COMMUNICATIONS AND SERVICES.

  ----------------------------------------------------- -----------------
  Aeronautical Advisory Station                         UNICOM

  Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting                      ARFF

  Airport Traffic Control Tower                         TWR

  Automatic Terminal Information Service                ATIS

  Common Traffic Advisory Frequency                     CTAF

  Automated/Flight Service Station                      FSS

  Low Level Wind Shear Alert Systems                    LLWAS
  ----------------------------------------------------- -----------------

6.  SPECIAL DATA FACILITIES, SITUATIONS.

  ----------------------------------------------------- -----------------
  Balloon Release                                       BLN RLS

  High Altitude Balloon                                 HIBAL

  Parachute Jumping Exercise                            PJE

  Weather Reporting Service (includes AWOS and other    WX REP
  systems associated with an instrument approach)       
  ----------------------------------------------------- -----------------

**APPENDIX C. FACILITY CONDITION DESCRIPTIONS AND CONTRACTIONS.**

1.  **FACILITY CONDITIONS AND THEIR CONTRACTIONS.** Facility condition
    descriptions and their contractions listed in this appendix are
    authorized for NOTAM composition. They have been extracted from
    various reference sources. The facility conditions are grouped in
    the same NOTAM Subject Categories as are the facilities themselves
    in Appendix B. This listing is not intended to be all-inclusive but
    should satisfy most of the needs of airport operators who originate
    NOTAMs. If the listed conditions do not seem to cover a particular
    situation, consult with the FSS. While every effort will be made to
    update this listing, there may be times when a new or revised term
    or contraction is published in one of the reference sources before
    this appendix can be changed. In the event of an apparent conflict,
    the user should compare the dates of the reference document and the
    appropriate page(s) of this appendix and follow the latest version.

**REFERENCES:**

Pilot/Controller Glossary (P/CG)

FAA Order 7340.1, *CONTRACTIONS*

FAA Order 7930.2, *NOTICES TO AIRMEN (NOTAMS), Appendix 5*

2.  LANDING AREA.

  ------------------------------------------- ---------------------------
  Bird Activity, Landing Area or              BIRDS ON AND IN VC ARPT
  Approaches[^7]                              

  Braking Action Fair                         BA FAIR

  Braking Action Nil                          BA NIL

  Braking Action Poor                         BA POOR

  Closed Commissioned                         CLSD

  Decommission                                DCMSN

  Decommissioned                              DCMSND

  Displaced                                   DSPLCD

  Except                                      EXC

  Runway Friction Value                       MU

  Friction Measuring Equipment Out of Service MU OTS

  Frozen                                      FRZN

  Ice On Runway(s)                            IR

  Inches                                      IN

  Light                                       LGT

  Lighted                                     LGTD

  Loose Snow on Runway(s)                     LSR

  Obscured, Obscure or Obscuring              OBSC

  Over                                        OVR

  Packed Snow on Runway                       PSR

  Packed or Compacted Snow/Ice on Runway(s)   SIR

  Patchy                                      PTCHY

  Personnel and Equipment Working             PAEW

  Plow, Plowed                                PLW

  Rough                                       RUF

  Rubber Accumulation                         RUBBER ACCUM

  Sand or Sanded                              SA

  Slush on Runway(s)                          SLR

  Snow                                        SN

  Snowbank(s) Containing Earth/Gravel         BERM

  Snowbank(s) Caused by Wind Action           DRFT

  Snowbank(s) Caused by Plowing (Windrow/s)   SNBNK

  Takeoff                                     TKOF

  Thin                                        THN

  Unlighted                                   UNLGTD

  Water on Runway(s)                          WTR

  Wet Snow on Runway(s)                       WSR
  ------------------------------------------- ---------------------------

3.  LIGHTING AIDS.

  ------------------------------------------- ---------------------------
  Commissioned                                CMSND

  Decommission                                DCMSN

  Decommissioned                              DCMSND

  Obscured, Obscure or Obscuring              OBSC

  Out of Service                              OTS

  Return to Service                           RTS

  Unlighted                                   UNLGTD
  ------------------------------------------- ---------------------------

4.  AIR NAVIGATION AIDS, COMMUNICATIONS AND SERVICES.

  ------------------------------------------- ---------------------------
  Commissioned                                CMSND

  Decommission                                DCMSN

  Decommissioned                              DCMSND

  Operating Normally                          OK

  Out of Service                              OTS

  Return to Service                           RTS

  Unavailable                                 UNAVBL

  Unmonitored                                 UNMNT

  Unusable                                    UNUSBL
  ------------------------------------------- ---------------------------

5.  SPECIAL DATA FACILITIES, SITUATIONS.

  ------------------------------------------- ---------------------------
  Avoid                                       AVOID

  Except                                      EXC

  Temporary                                   TEMPO

  Unavailable                                 UNAVBL

  Unreliable                                  UNREL

  With Effect From or Effective From          WEF
  ------------------------------------------- ---------------------------

**Intentionally left blank.**

**APPENDIX D. SAMPLE NOTAM.**

  ------------------------------------- ---------------------------------
                                        **AIRPORT**

  ------------------------------------- ---------------------------------

  ---------------- ------------------------- ----------- --------------------
  **FAA NOTAM \#**                           **DATE:**   

  **AIRPORT I.D.                             **TIME:**   
  \#**                                                   
  ---------------- ------------------------- ----------- --------------------

**NOTAM TEXT:**

NOTIFICATION:

  ------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------ ---------------------------------- -------------- ----------------------------------
  \# \# \# \# TOWER                                            \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_   \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_                  \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

  PHONE \#                                                     INITIALS                 TIME                                              CALLED IN BY

  \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_                                                                              

  \# \# \# \# AFSS                                             \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_   \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_                    \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

  PHONE \#                                                     INITIALS                 TIME                                              CALLED IN BY

  \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_                                                                              

                                                                                                                           AIRLINES       

                                                                                                                                          

                                                                                                                                          

                                                                                                                                          
  ------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------ ---------------------------------- -------------- ----------------------------------

**CANCELLED:**

NOTIFICATION:

  ------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------ ---------------------------------- -------------- ----------------------------------
  \# \# \# \# TOWER                                            \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_   \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_                  \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

  PHONE \#                                                     INITIALS                 TIME                                              CALLED IN BY

  \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_                                                                              

  \# \# \# \# AFSS                                             \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_   \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_                    \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

  PHONE \#                                                     INITIALS                 TIME                                              CALLED IN BY

  \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_                                                                              

                                                                                                                           AIRLINES       

                                                                                                                                          

                                                                                                                                          

                                                                                                                                          
  ------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------ ---------------------------------- -------------- ----------------------------------

**Intentionally left blank.**

[^1]: After October 1, 1990, noise restrictions for airports must be
    cleared through the FAA\'s notice and review process, as required by
    the Airport Noise and Capacity Act of 1990. The process for
    compliance with this law is set forth in 14 CFR Part 161, *Notice
    and Approval of Airport Noise and Access Restrictions*. Contact the
    local Airports District Office for guidance on complying with 14 CFR
    Part 161.

[^2]: Local coordination with airport users such as air carriers and
    other commercial operations should be conducted as far in advance as
    possible to minimize the impact construction projects, planned
    surface closures, or other conditions have on the operation of the
    airport.

[^3]: FAA Order 7930.2 is the authority for contractions used in this
    AC. Any contraction changes in FAA Order 7930.2 supersede the
    contractions used in this AC.

[^4]: Either MU Value and/or braking action reports are acceptable for
    reporting pavement conditions to the NOTAM system. However, there is
    no correlation between the two. **THEY ARE NOT INTERCHANGEABLE.**

[^5]: Either MU Value and/or braking action reports are acceptable for
    reporting pavement conditions to the NOTAM system. However, there is
    no correlation between the two. **THEY ARE NOT INTERCHANGEABLE.**

[^6]: Use plain language or consult with FSS for preferred terminology.

[^7]: Use plain language or consult with FSS for preferred terminology.