Low Level Forecasts

What Are F214, F215, F415, and F424?

These forecasts are part of the UK’s regulated aviation weather services, designed to support safe and efficient low-level flight operations:

F215: A graphical low-level significant weather chart showing areas of poor visibility, low cloud, and other weather hazards, click here for a worked example

F214: A forecast chart of upper winds and temperatures at low levels.

F415: A text-based low-level forecast summarising significant weather condition.

F424: A forecast chart showing freezing levels and potential icing risks.

These products are issued four times daily and use abbreviated plain language to present a wide range of weather information clearly and concisely on a single page

Who Are They For?

General Aviation Pilots – To identify weather hazards and plan safe routes.

Flight Instructors and Students – For training and pre-flight briefings.

Recreational Flyers – To avoid areas of poor visibility, low cloud, or icing.

What Do They Include?

F215: Areas of low cloud, poor visibility, and significant weather phenomena.

F214: Wind direction, speed, and temperature at various low-level altitudes.

F415: Text summary of weather affecting low-level flight.

F424: Freezing levels and icing risk areas.

When and How Are They Issued?

• Issued four times per day.
• Designed for pre-flight planning and in-flight awareness.
• Available in graphical and text formats.

How Can I Access the Service?

These forecasts are available through the Met Office Aviation Briefing Service, click here to learn more about this service