GEN 3.5  Meteorological Services

1   CIVIL

1.1   Responsible Services

Skeyes and ANA are the meteorological service providers for international air navigation within the area indicated under § 1.2 below.

The services are provided in accordance with the provisions contained in the following ICAO documents:

  • Annex 3. Meteorological Service for International Air Navigation
  • Doc 7030. Regional Supplementary Procedures
  • Doc 7754. Air Navigation Plan. European Region

Differences to these provisions are detailed in section GEN 1.7.

1.1.1   Skeyes
Post:

skeyes
MET Department
Tervuursesteenweg 303
1820 Steenokkerzeel
BELGIUM

TEL: +32 (0) 2 206 28 02

FAX: +32 (0) 2 206 28 09

Email: meteo@skeyes.be

URL: ops.skeyes.be

1.1.2   ANA
Post:

Administration de la navigation aérienne
MET Department - Forecast Office
BP 273
L-2012 Luxembourg
LUXEMBOURG

TEL: +352 47 98 27 01 1

FAX: +352 47 98 27 09 0

Email: info@meteo.public.lu

URL: www.ana.gouvernement.lu (ANA site)

URL: www.meteolux.lu (MET site)

AFS: ELLXYMYX

1.2   Area of Responsibility

Skeyes is responsible for the provision of meteorological services within the Brussels FIR/UIR, with the exception of the airspace within which meteorological services are provided by ANA.

ANA is responsible for the provision of meteorological services within the territory of Luxembourg.

1.3   Meteorological Observations and Reports
Name of station
Location indicator		Type and frequency of observation/automatic observing systemTypes of MET reports & Supplementary Information includedObservation system & SitesHours of operationClimato-logical infor-mation
123456
ANTWERPEN/Deurne
EBAW		Half hourly plus special observationsMETAR
MET REPORT
SPECIAL MET REPORT
(AUTO METAR
AUTO MET REPORT
AUTO SPECIAL MET REPORT) (1)
TREND (2)		Windvector-sensor: THR 29 and THR 11.
Ceilometer: THR 29.
RVR measurement: forward scattermeters TDZ RWY 29 and TDZ RWY 11.
Temperature: observation site.		During AD OPR HR: MAN reports issued from EBAW or EBBR (see EBAW AD 2.11).
Outside AD OPR HR: AUTO reports 		AVBL (3)
BRUSSELS/Brussels-National
EBBR		Half hourly plus special observationsMETAR
MET REP
SPECIAL MET REP
TREND		Windvector-sensor: see AD 2.EBBR-ADC.01.
Ceilometer: MM RWY 25L, MM RWY 01, THR RWY 07L and THR RWY 25R.
RVR measurement: forward scattermeters TDZ, MID and END of RWY 25R/07L, 25L/07R and 01/19.
Temperature: observation site.
Radar: airport centre (see AD 2.EBBR-ADC.01).		H24AVBL (3)
CHARLEROI/Brussels-South
EBCI		Half hourly plus special observationsMETAR
MET REP
SPECIAL MET REP
TREND		Windvector-sensor: THR 25 and THR 07.
Ceilometer: MM RWY 25 and THR RWY 07.
RVR measurement: forward scattermeter TDZ, MID and END of RWY 25.
Temperature: observation site.		H24AVBL (3)
KORTRIJK/Wevelgem
EBKT		Half hourly plus special observationsMETARWindvector-sensor: observation site.
Ceilometer: observation site.
Temperature: observation site.
RVR measurement: NIL.		AD OPR HRNot AVBL
LIÈGE/Liège
EBLG		Half hourly plus special observationsMETAR
MET REP
SPECIAL MET REP
TREND		Windvector-sensor: THR RWY 22L and THR RWY 04R.
Ceilometer: MM RWY 22L and TDZ of RWY 04R.
RVR measurement: forward scattermeters TDZ, MID and END of RWY 22L and TDZ of RWY 22R.
Temperature: observation site.		H24AVBL (3)
LUXEMBOURG/
Luxembourg
ELLX		Half hourly plus special observationsMETAR
MET REP
SPECIAL MET REP
TREND		Windvector-sensor: THR 06, THR 24 and in the middle of RWY 24.
Ceilometer: RWYs 06 and 24.
RVR measurement: points A, B and C of RWY 24.
Temperature: observation site.		H24AVBL (4)
OOSTENDE-BRUGGE/Oostende
EBOS		Half hourly plus special observationsMETAR
MET REP
SPECIAL MET REP
TREND		Windvector-sensor: THR RWY 26 and THR RWY 08.
Ceilometer: MM RWY 26 and THR RWY 08.
RVR measurement: forward scattermeters TDZ, MID and END of RWY 26.
Temperature: observation site.		H24AVBL (3)
SAINT-HUBERT/Saint-Hubert
EBSH		Half hourlyAUTO METAR (1)Windvector-sensor: THR NW.
Ceilometer: observation site.
Temperature: observation site.
RVR measurement: NIL.		H24
(Unmanned station)		AVBL (3)
SPA/La Sauvenière
EBSP		Half hourlyAUTO METAR (1)Windvector-sensor: 180 M right side axis RWY 05.
Ceilometer: observation site.
Temperature: observation site.
RVR measurement: NIL.		H24
(Unmanned station)		AVBL (3)

Note 1: When automated meteorological reports are provided, cumulonimbus clouds (CB), towering cumulus clouds (TCU) and thunderstorm (TS) are not included due to technical reasons.

Note 2: When automated meteorological reports are provided, no TREND forecast is included in the report.

Note 3: Aeronautical climatological information for aerodromes is available on request via the operational website of skeyes (request form available on ops.skeyes.be, costs may be charged.)

Note 4: Aeronautical climatological information shall be requested via TEL (+352 47 98 27 00 3), FAX (+352 47 98 27 09 1), email (climatologie@airport.etat.lu), AFS (ELLXYMYX) or post (see GEN 1.1, § 2.2).

1.4   Types of Services
1.4.1   General

Personal briefing and consultation for flight crew members are provided at EBAW, EBCI, EBLG, EBOS and ELLX.

For all other civil aerodromes in Belgium (incl EBBR), briefing and consultation is available by telephone.

Flight documentation for flights from aerodromes in Belgium is supplied to operators and flight crew via self-briefing terminals in dedicated crew-rooms or via internet (operational website of skeyes accessible after registration). In case of problems or specific questions, please contact the local Aerodrome Meteorological Offices (AMO).

Note: Charges for telephone briefings and consultations may apply.

Details of the AMO and the meteorological information available are given in § 1.3 and in section AD 2.11.

For ELLX, a weather bulletin is available to the users via the MeteoLux website and through a polling system:

URL: www.meteolux.lu

FAX: +352 47 98 27 09 0

1.4.2   Meteorological Info for International Scheduled Air Traffic

Meteorological information for international scheduled air traffic normally consists of documentation and if necessary briefing/consultation.

The documentation is supplied to the pilot-in-command via self-briefing terminal or via airport operators.

The flight documentation consists generally of:

  • Meteorological aerodrome reports: METAR;
  • Aerodrome forecasts in TAF-form;
  • Forecast of en-route conditions in form of charts (significant weather charts);
  • Upper winds-and temperature-forecasts in chart form (for one or more isobaric standard levels best adapted to the flights concerned (3 levels MAX));
  • SIGMET;
  • AIRMET;
  • Relevant Special Air Reports;
  • Volcanic Ash Advisories, Tropical Cyclone Advisories and Space Weather Advisories.

The AMO at the aerodrome of departure can supply the pilot-in-command with a detailed oral explanation of the existing situation and the expected weather conditions during the flight and also with a forecast for take-off that can be requested MAX 3 hours before departure. At EBBR and EBCI, this consultation can only be obtained via telephone.

1.4.3   Meteorological Info for General Aviation

Meteorological information for General Aviation is normally supplied upon request by a pilot as briefing directly or by telephone.

Flight documentation is available via self-briefing terminal or via internet (operational website of skeyes accessible after registration).

In Belgium, for special activities such as glider flying, ballooning, VFR flights, low level private and business aviation, weather charts, special bulletins, etc. are available to the users via the skeyes website (after registration).Briefing, consultation and information about these special activities may be obtained on request via CONSULTEL:

TEL: 0902 / 88 173 (charges apply).

In Luxembourg, information for glider flying, ballooning, VFR flights, low-level private and business aviation are available by phone.

1.4.3.1   GAMET Area forecast for Low-level Flights

A GAMET Area Forecast is available at set timings and provides information about the following elements:

  1. Section I: Weather phenomena hazardous to low-level flights:
    • Strong surface wind speed (> 30 KT);
    • Low surface visibility (≤ 5 KM) + weather;
    • Significant weather phenomena;
    • Significant clouds;
    • Icing;
    • Turbulence;
    • Applicable SIGMET.
  2. Section II: Additional information required by low-level flights:
    • Synopsis;
    • Surface wind speed (> 30 KT);
    • Winds and temperature at 1 000, 2 000, 5 000 and 10 000 FT;
    • Surface visibility;
    • Clouds;
    • Freezing level;
    • MNM QNH;
    • Outlook:
      AvailabilityValidity period
      (UTC)Outlook
      210000-06+6
      030006-12+6
      090012-18+6
      150018-24+6

The GAMET is accessible via the operational website of skeyes (after registration).

1.4.3.2   Significant Weather Chart - Low Level (SWC - LL)

Periodically a SWC-LL covering the Brussels FIR will be made available. This chart is a prognostic chart for the low-level flights and gives areas with similar characteristics about:

  • Visibility;
  • Weather;
  • Clouds;
  • Turbulence and icing;
  • Zero degree level.

Fronts and pressure centres with direction of movement, convergence lines, low-level jets, widespread strong surface winds and squall lines are given on the maps by means of the appropriate international symbols.

Availability (UTC)Validity time
02000600 (0430 - 0730)
05000900 (0730 - 1030)
08001200 (1030 - 1330)
11001500 (1330 - 1630)
14001800 (1630 - 1930)

The SWC-LL is accessible via the operational website of skeyes (after registration).

1.5   Notification Required from Operators

The service required for a non-scheduled flight shall be requested with a prior notice sufficient for the preparation of the briefing and documentation (a 2 HR notice is generally sufficient for an ordinary flight).

1.6   Aircraft Reports

The meteorological office at the aerodrome of departure or arrival in Belgium should be informed as soon as possible (via the appropriate ATC communication channels) when the following weather phenomena are encountered during the climb-out, en route or approach phases of the flight:

  • Moderate or severe icing;
  • Moderate or severe turbulence;
  • Moderate or severe wind shear;
  • Volcanic ash;
  • Thunderstorm (with/without hail);
  • Other meteorological conditions when they, in the opinion of the pilot-in-command, may affect the safety of other aircraft operations.
1.7   VOLMET Service
Name of stationCall sign Identification (EM)FREQ (MHZ)Broadcast periodHours of serviceAerodromes includedContents and format of REP and FCST and remarks
1234567
BRUSSELSBrussels MET Broadcast (A3E)127.805 (8.33 KHZ CH)H24 CNSEBBR
EBOS
EGLL
ELLX
EHAM
LFPO
EDDF
EDDK
EDDL		METAR, TREND
1.8   SIGMET and AIRMET Service
1.8.1   General

For the safety of air traffic, the Meteorological Watch Office (MWO) maintains a continuous watch over meteorological conditions affecting flight operations within the Brussels FIR. In case of occurrence or expected occurrence of special meteorological phenomena, which may endanger safety and efficiency of flight operations, SIGMET and AIRMET information is issued.
Furthermore, aerodrome warnings are issued to operators, in accordance with local arrangements, by all AMO.

1.8.2   Area Meteorological Watch Service

SIGMET and AIRMET information are provided by the Brussels AMO and disseminated internationally as well as nationally. SIGMET information is valid for the entire Brussels FIR and refers to the following phenomena:

  • Obscured, embedded, frequent, squall line thunderstorms (with/without hail);
  • Severe icing;
  • Severe turbulence;
  • Radioactive cloud;
  • Volcanic ash.

AIRMET information is valid for the entire Brussels FIR from surface up to level FL 100 and will be issued if one of the following phenomena is not forecast in the section I of the GAMET:

  • Occasional, isolated thunderstorms (with/without hail);
  • Moderate icing;
  • Moderate turbulence;
  • Surface wind speed > 30 KT;
  • Surface visibility < 5 KM;
  • Broken or overcast clouds with base below 1 000 FT AGL.
1.8.3   Aerodrome Warning Service

Local meteorological warnings referring to a certain airport and its vicinity are being provided by the local meteorological centres. These warnings refer to the occurrence or expected occurrence of one or more of the following phenomena:

  • Thunderstorm;
  • Squall line;
  • Strong surface wind and gusts;
  • Hail;
  • Hoar frost or rime;
  • Snow;
  • Freezing precipitation;
  • Freezing fog;
  • Volcanic ash;
  • Toxic chemicals;
  • Funnel cloud.

The aerodrome warnings are issued in English and are distributed in accordance with a distribution list agreed upon locally.

Lightning warnings are also provided to aerodrome operators.

1.9   Other Automated Meteorological Services
Service nameInformation availableArea, route and aerodrome coverageTelephone numbers, websites, remarks
1234
Meteorological Information Self-briefing TerminalOPMET (TAF, METAR, SIGMET, ...), satellite imagery, weather-radar info, analysis charts of MSL pressure; FCST charts, SIGWX charts, aviation weather warning, UWT charts, time series…Europe, Worldwide international aerodromesContact local AMO
Internet websiteOPMET (TAF, METAR, SIGMET,...), satellite imagery, weather-radar info, analysis charts of MSL pressure; FCST charts, SIGWX charts, aviation weather warning, UWT charts, time series…Europe, Worldwide international aerodromesops.skeyes.be
Brussels EUROPMET DatabankMETAR, TAF, SIGMET, AIRMET, volcanic ash advisories, other GA meteorological informationEurope, Worldwide international aerodromesaccess via AFS with ICAO OPMET query language
1.9.1   Meteorological Information Self-briefing Terminal (MIST)

Meteorological Information Self Briefing terminal are available at any Flight Briefing Unit. Contact the local AMO for details.

1.9.2   Internet Website

A dedicated website (ops.skeyes.be) is available, requiring user-name and password. These can be obtained online for aeronautical users residing in Belgium.

1.9.3   Brussels EUROPMET Databank
1.9.3.1   General

To serve the aviation community, the Brussels databank supplies actual OPMET data for flight services. The Brussels databank is one of the three European ICAO EUR OPMET databanks.

The use of the databank is only for aviation purposes and commercial use for third parties is not allowed.

The Brussels EUR OPMET Databank is managed and operated by skeyes (H24):

Post:

skeyes DGI/MET
EUR OPMET Databank
Tervuursesteenweg 303
1820 Steenokkerzeel
BELGIUM

Email: metsysadmin@skeyes.be

AFS: interrogation - automatic response:

  • AFTN: EBBRYZYX (requests for data in TAC format only)
  • AMHS: /C=XX/A=ICAO/P=BELGIUM/O=EBBR/OU1=EBBR/CN=EBBRYZYA (requests for data in TAC or IWXXM format)
1.9.3.2   Contents

The EUR OPMET Database Catalogue consists of lists of OPMET products that are required to be available, in the ICAO EUR OPMET Databases, following the requirements by the ICAO EUR Air Navigation Plan (EUR ANP).

These requirements are:

  1. for message types METAR/SPECI, FT TAF and FC TAF:
    Table MET II-2 Volume II of the ICAO Regional Air Navigation Plans (eANP).
  2. for SIGMET messages:
    all FIR, as listed in the Regional SIGMET Guides. These documents are available via the regional ICAO websites; for the EUR/NAT region (www.icao.int/eurnat/Pages/welcome.aspx).
1.9.3.3   Access Procedures

Access via AFTN/AMHS.

For details on the access procedures, data types and the EUR OPMET Databank query language, see Appendix A (Interface Control Document) - ICAO EUR Doc-018: EUR OPMET Data management handbook. This document is available on the ICAO EUR/NAT website:

Note: Access procedures shall be strictly applied.

2   MILITARY

2.1   Responsible Service

The National Military Meteorological Centre (NMMC) is the meteorological service provider for military air navigation within the area indicated under § 2.2 below.

Post:

Defence
Air and Space Component - COMOPS AIR&SPACE
Meteo Wing
Base Charles Roman
Rue de la Grande Lecke 1
1320 Beauvechain
BELGIUM

TEL: +32 (0) 2 442 54 24

TEL: +32 (0) 2 442 54 34

Email: meteow-bmgt@mil.be

2.2   Area of Responsibility

The NMMC is responsible for the provision of military meteorological services within the Brussels FIR/UIR.

2.3   Meteorological Offices
2.3.1   National Military Meteorological Centre (NMMC)

The NMMC is competent to (H24):

  • provide and obtain forecasts and other relevant information for flights that are concerned;
  • provide an amendment service to forecasts;
  • supply meteorological information and provide briefings and documentation to aeronautical personnel;
  • disseminate meteorological information required by a dependent meteorological office or meteorological observation station;
  • exchange meteorological information with other NMMCs, civil and allied meteorological offices.
2.3.2   Dependent Meteorological Office (DMO)

A DMO is competent to:

  • prepare and obtain forecasts under the guidance of the NMMC for flights that are concerned;
  • supply meteorological information and provide briefings and documentation to aeronautical personnel;
  • have forecasting capability for local meteorological conditions.
2.3.3   Meteorological Observation Station (MOS)

A MOS is competent to:

  • make synoptic and aeronautical observations;
  • make meteorological reports and transmit these reports to the NMMC.

A MOS may be an independent station or may be part of a DMO.

2.3.4   Address of National Military Meteorological Centre
Location indicator
Name / type of unit		Hours of operation

Additional information:

EBWM
Beauvechain Weather Military Centre / NMMC
(see § 2.1)		H24
Post:

Meteo Wing
Base Charles Roman
Rue de la Grande Lecke 1
1320 Beauvechain
BELGIUM

TEL: +32 (0) 2 442 58 02

TEL: +32 (0) 473 83 91 08

AFS: EBWMYMYX

Email: meteow-ops-meteoc@mil.be

Language used: En - Fr - Nl

The Beauvechain Military Weather Centre is the associated NMMC of the following meteorological units.

2.4   Meteorological Observations and Reports
Name of Station - Location indicator
/ type of unit		ObservationsHours of operationReportsSupplementary information
hourlyhalf-hourlyspecial
1234567
BEAUVECHAIN - EBBE / DMO - MOSxxxDMO: MON to FRI, 0500-1700 (0400-1600) (night flight: 2300(2200))
MOS: H24 (manual if Air OPS; AUTO if no OPS)		(AUTO-)SYNOP, (AUTO-)METAR, (AUTO-)SPECI, TAFTREND/CSF

Observation systems and site:

  1. Windvector-sensor: THR 22 and THR 04
  2. Ceilometer: observation site
  3. Temperature: observation site
  4. Visibility meter: observation site

Additional information:

TEL: +32 (0) 2 442 54 97

AFS: EBBEYMYX

Email: meteow-ops-metsta-1w@mil.be

Language used: En - Fr - Nl
Name of Station - Location indicator
/ type of unit		ObservationsHours of operationReportsSupplementary information
hourlyhalf-hourlyspecial
1234567
CHIEVRES - EBCV / MOSxxxH24 (Fully AUTO mode)AUTO-SYNOP, AUTO-METAR, AUTO-SPECI, TAF

Observation systems and site:

  1. Windvector-sensor: observation site
  2. Ceilometer: observation site
  3. Temperature: observation site
  4. Visibility meter: observation site

Additional information:

TEL: +32 (0) 2 442 58 02 (Meteo Wing - MeteoC)

AFS: EBCVYMYX

Email: meteow-ops-meteoc@mil.be

Language used: En - Fr - Nl
Name of Station - Location indicator
/ type of unit		ObservationsHours of operationReportsSupplementary information
hourlyhalf-hourlyspecial
1234567
ELSENBORN - EBLB / MOSxxxH24 (Fully AUTO mode)AUTO-SYNOP, AUTO-METAR, AUTO-SPECI

Observation systems and site:

  1. Windvector-sensor: near center RWY 04-22
  2. Ceilometer: near center RWY 04-22
  3. Temperature: near center RWY 04-22
  4. Visibility meter: near center RWY 04-22

Additional information:

TEL: +32 (0) 2 442 58 02 (Meteo Wing - MeteoC)

AFS: EBLBYMYX

Email: meteow-ops-meteoc@mil.be

Language used: En - Fr - Nl
Name of Station - Location indicator
/ type of unit		ObservationsHours of operationReportsSupplementary information
hourlyhalf-hourlyspecial
1234567
FLORENNES - EBFS / DMO - MOSxxxDMO: MON to FRI, 0500-1700 (0400-1600) (night flight: 2300 (2200))
MOS: H24 (manual if Air OPS; AUTO if no OPS)		(AUTO-)SYNOP, (AUTO-)METAR, (AUTO-)SPECI, TAFTREND/CSF

Observation systems and site:

  1. Windvector-sensor: THR 26 and THR 08
  2. Ceilometer: observation site
  3. Temperature: observation site
  4. Visibility meter: observation site

Additional information:

TEL: +32 (0) 2 442 65 84

AFS: EBFSYMYX

Email: meteow-ops-metsta-2w@mil.be

Language used: En - Fr
Name of Station - Location indicator
/ type of unit		ObservationsHours of operationReportsSupplementary information
hourlyhalf-hourlyspecial
1234567
KLEINE-BROGEL - EBBL / DMO - MOSxxxDMO: MON to FRI, 0500-1700 (0400-1600) (night flight: 2300(2200))
MOS: H24 (manual if Air OPS; AUTO if no OPS)		(AUTO-)SYNOP, (AUTO-)METAR, (AUTO-)SPECI, TAFTREND/CSF

Observation systems and site:

  1. Windvector-sensor: THR 23 and THR 05
  2. Ceilometer: observation site
  3. Temperature: observation site
  4. Visibility meter: THR 05

Additional information:

TEL: +32 (0) 2 443 30 28

AFS: EBBLYMYX

Email: meteow-ops-metsta-10w@mil.be

Language used: En - Nl
Name of Station - Location indicator
/ type of unit		ObservationsHours of operationReportsSupplementary information
hourlyhalf-hourlyspecial
1234567
KOKSIJDE - EBFN / DMO - MOSxxxDMO: MON to FRI, 0500-1700 (0400-1600) (night flight: 2300 (2200))
MOS: H24 (manual if Air OPS; AUTO if no OPS)		(AUTO-)SYNOP, (AUTO-)METAR, (AUTO-)SPECI, TAFTREND/CSF

Observation systems and site:

  1. Windvector-sensor: THR 29 and near RWY (29 - 11) / VOR
  2. Ceilometer: observation site
  3. Temperature: observation site
  4. Visibility meter: observation site

Additional information:

TEL: +32 (0) 2 442 35 78

AFS: EBFNYMYX

Email: meteow-ops-metsta-bkoks@mil.be

Language used: En - Nl - Fr
Name of Station - Location indicator
/ type of unit		ObservationsHours of operationReportsSupplementary information
hourlyhalf-hourlyspecial
1234567
MESLBROEK - EBMB / DMO - MOS(*)(*)(*)DMO: contact EBWM NMMC - H24
MOS: H24 (*)		(*)(*)

(*) Observations are made by civil MOS (EBBR).

Additional information:

TEL: +32 (0) 2 442 58 02 (Meteo Wing - MeteoC)

AFS: EBMBYMYX

Email: meteow-ops-meteoc@mil.be

Language used: En - Fr - Nl
Name of Station - Location indicator
/ type of unit		ObservationsHours of operationReportsSupplementary information
hourlyhalf-hourlyspecial
1234567
SCHAFFEN - EBDT / DMO - MOSxxxDMO: MON to FRI, beginning till end of training OPS
MOS: H24 (manual if Air OPS; AUTO if no OPS)		(AUTO-)SYNOP, (AUTO-)METAR, (AUTO-)SPECI, TAFTREND/CSF

Observation systems and site:

  1. Windvector-sensor: observation site
  2. Ceilometer: observation site
  3. Temperature: observation site
  4. Visibility meter: observation site

Additional information:

TEL: +32 (0) 2 442 05 55

AFS: EBDTYMYX

Email: meteow-ops-metsta-cepara@mil.be

Language used: En - Fr - Nl
Name of Station - Location indicator
/ type of unit		ObservationsHours of operationReportsSupplementary information
hourlyhalf-hourlyspecial
1234567
SEMMERZAKE - EBSZ / MOSxxxH24 (Fully AUTO mode)AUTO-SYNOP, AUTO-METAR, AUTO-SPECI

Observation systems and site:

  1. Windvector-sensor: observation site
  2. Ceilometer: observation site
  3. Temperature: observation site
  4. Visibility meter: observation site

Additional information:

TEL: +32 (0) 2 442 58 02 (Meteo Wing - MeteoC)

AFS: EBSZYMYX

Email: meteow-ops-meteoc@mil.be

Language used: En - Fr - Nl

Note 1: No TREND included in automated meteorological reports (AUTO-METAR & AUTO-SPECI)

Note 2: No CB (Cumulonimbus clouds), No TCU (Towering Cumulus clouds), No TS (Thunderstorm) included in AUTO-reports.

2.5   Types of Services
2.5.1   General

Briefing and consultation (personal and/or by telephone) for flight crew members are provided at EBBE, EBBL, EBDT, EBFN and EBFS.

Other flight documentation is also supplied to operators and flight crew via self-briefing terminals in dedicated crew-rooms (via intranet Defence http://meteo).
In case of problems or specific questions, please contact the local Dependent Meteorological Office (DMO) or National Military Meteorological Centre (NMMC).

2.5.2   Meteorological Info for International Scheduled Air Traffic

Meteorological information for international scheduled air traffic (route forecast) normally consists of documentation and if necessary briefing/consultation.

This documentation is supplied to the pilot-in-command via self-briefing terminal or via e-mail and can be supplemented by a detailed oral explanation of the existing weather conditions during the flight and also with a forecast for take-off that can be requested maximum 3 hours before departure.

For EBMB, this MET information shall be obtained from the NMMC.

The flight documentation generally consists of:

  • Meteorological Aerodrome Reports (METAR) of aerodromes of
    • departure
    • destination
    • en-route
  • Aerodrome Forecasts (TAF) of aerodromes of
    • departure
    • destination
    • en-route
  • Significant Weather Charts (forecasts of the en-route conditions in chart form)
    • F.e. PGDE14 EGRR (Sig Wx Chart: Trop/Max wind FL 100-450 Europe H+24)
  • Forecasts of upper-winds and temperature (in chart form)
    (charts of relevant isobaric standard level have to be provided in function of flight level)
    • F.e. PWBE70 EBBR (Wind & Temp FL 100 H+24)
  • SIGMET
  • Volcanic Ash Advisories and Tropical Cyclone Advisories
  • Local aerodrome warnings
  • MET satellite images
  • Ground-based weather radar information
2.5.3   Short-Range Bulletin (SR) - Significant Weather Forecast Chart (SWF) - Local Area Forecast (LAF)

On fixed time intervals a combined product (SR) consisting og SWF chart and a detailed wetaher description for Belgium (LAF) will be issued.

  • The Significant Weather Forecast is a detailed and clear prognostic chart depicting weather conditions significant for aviation.

    It covers Benelux, Germany, England, Wales and northern part of France and consists of following elements:

    • frontal systems, convergence lines, squall lines and their direction of movement
    • areas with similar significant meteorological conditions and their movement.
      For each area the prevailing (P), local (L) and isolated (I) weather conditions are described on terms of:
      • visibility
      • weather
      • cloudiness
    AvailabilityValidity TimeFrontal Position
    0430 (0330)0600 (0500) - 1200 (1100)0900 (0800)
    0600 (0500)1200 (1100) - 1800 (1700)1500 (1400)
    1300 (1200)1800 (1700) - 2400 (2300)2100 (2000)
    2200 (2100)0000 (2300) - 0600 (0500)0300 (0200)
  • The Local Area Forecast is a text bulletin (FXBX50 EBWM) containing following information:
    • potentially dangerous phenomena Belgium
    • general situation Belgium
    • significant weather Belgium
    • surface temperatures Belgium
    • surface winds Belgium
    • upper winds Brussels
    • upper air data Belgium
    • outlook for next 12 hours Belgium
    • sea state Belgian coast and sea surface temperature Westhinder
    AvailabilityValidity TimeOutlook
    0430 (0330)0600 (0500) - 1800 (1700)1800 (1700) - 0600 (0500)
    1300 (1200)1800 (1700) - 0600 (0500)0600 (0500) - 1800 (1700)
  • The Short-Range Bulletin (SR) combines:
    • SWF
    • elaborated LAF:
      • potentially dangerous phenomena Belgium
      • general situation Belgium
      • significant weather Belgium
      • surface temperatures Belgium
      • surface winds Belgium
      • upper winds Brussels
      • upper air data Belgium
      • outlook for next 12 hours Belgium
      • sea state Belgian coast and sea surface temperature Westhinder
      AvailabilityValidity TimeSWFLAFOutlook
      0430 (0330)0600 (0500) - 1200 (1100)0600 (0500) - 1200 (1100)0600 (0500) - 1800 (1700)1800 (1700) - 0600 (0500)
      0800 (0700)1200 (1100) - 1800 (1700)1200 (1100) - 1800 (1700)0600 (0500) - 1800 (1700)1800 (1700) - 0600 (0500)
      1300 (1200)1800 (1700) - 2400 (2300)1800 (1700) - 2400 (2300)1800 (1700) - 0600 (0500)0600 (0500) - 1800 (1700)
      2200 (2100)0000 (2300) - 0600 (0500)0000 (2300) - 0600 (0500)1800 (1700) - 0600 (0500)0600 (0500) - 1800 (1700)
2.5.4   Meteorological Warning Service
2.5.4.1   General

For the safety of military aviation, the NMMC maintains a continuous watch over meteorological conditions affecting flight operations within the area of responsibility.

In case of occurrence or expected occurrence of special meteorological phenomena, which may endanger safety and efficiency of flight operations, meteorological warnings are issued for one or more of the following phenomena:

  • negative air and/or ground temperatures
  • abundant precipitation (>15-20 MM/6 HR and /or >25-50 MM/12 HR)
  • wintry precipitation
  • rime and/or ice patches
  • widespread fog formation
  • freezing fog
  • thunderstorms with or without hail/gusts
  • strong winds or gusts (threshold: ≥ 30 KT)
  • wind chill index ≤ -7° C
  • heat stress index ≥ 29° C
2.5.4.2   Local Aerodrome Warnings

Furthermore, local aerodrome warnings are issued to operators, in accordance with local arrangements, by all DMO.

2.5.5   Climatology and Historical Data
2.5.5.1   Data

Climatological (means - extreme – frequencies - …) and historical (past meteorological) data is available for the following military stations:

  • BEAUVECHAIN
  • CHIEVRES
  • ELSENBORN
  • FLORENNES
  • KLEINE-BROGEL
  • KOKSIJDE
  • SCHAFFEN
  • SEMMERZAKE
2.5.5.2   Parameters

Climatological and/or historical data can be obtained for the following meteorological parameters, depending on their availability:

  • Air temperature
  • Soil temperature
  • Surface wind (direction & speed)
  • Visibility
  • Cloud amount & height of cloud base
  • Precipitation (rain, drizzle, snow)
  • State of ground
  • Surface pressure
2.5.5.3   Winds and Temperature Aloft

Historical data about winds and temperature aloft are available as well. They are based on the prognostic upper air soundings of Uccle (RMIB).

2.6   Belgian Meteorological Stations
Belgian Military Meteorological Stations
StationPosition
Lat/Long (D° M’ S.S”)
WGS84 (2013)		Elevation AMSL
EGM2008		WMO IndexICAO LOC Indicator
MFT
BEAUVECHAINN50 44 44.47 - E4 45 47.80120.675395.91506 458EBBE
CASTEAUN50 30 10.63 - E3 58 59.7890.721297.64106 415EBCT
CHIEVRESN50 34 19.78 - E3 49 52.9460.164197.38806 432EBCV
ELSENBORNN50 28 56.49 - E6 10 52.68564.8981853.34006 496EBLB
FLORENNESN50 14 04.49 - E4 39 10.65287.558943.43206 456EBFS
HOUTHALEN-HELCHTERENN51 03 01.37 - E5 26 07.5177.217253.33706 413EBHH
KLEINE-BROGELN51 10 07.79 - E5 27 45.7154.786179.74406 479EBBL
KOKSIJDEN51 05 17.10 - E2 39 08.654.07513.36906 400EBFN
MARCHE-EN-FAMENNEN50 14 16.44 - E5 21 21.25219.398719.81006 417EBMF
SCHAFFENN50 59 49.08 - E5 03 43.0751.780169.88206 465EBDT
SEMMERZAKEN50 56 26.03 - E3 40 10.9634.762114.04906 428EBSZ

Note 1: Elevation refers to height of the pressure sensor in the Meteo Park (ca 2 M above the ground level)

Belgian Meteorological Stations - Code
StationMET ServicePosition
Lat/Long (DMS)
WGS84		Elevation HP
EGM2008		WMO IndexICAO LOC Indicator
MFT
ANTWERPEN-DEURNEskeyes51 11 25N 004 27 28E13.2143.34006 450EBAW
BEAUVECHAINMIL50 44 44N 004 45 48E120.675395.91506 458EBBE
BEITEMRMIB50 54 14N 003 07 18E2580.02106 414
BRUSSELS NATIONAL (AIRPORT)skeyes50 53 47N 004 31 38E54.9180.11806 451EBBR
BUZENOLRMIB49 37 13N 005 35 15E3241062.99206 484
CASTEAUMIL50 30 11N 003 59 00E90.721297.64106 415EBCT
CHARLEROI/BRUSSELS SOUTHskeyes50 27 15N 004 26 24E188.1617.12606 449EBCI
CHIEVRESMIL50 34 20N 003 49 53E60.164197.38806 432EBCV
DIEPENBEEKRMIB50 54 56N 005 27 01E39127.95306 477
DOURBESRMIB50 05 44N 004 35 40E233764.43606 455
ELSENBORNMIL50 28 56N 006 10 53E564.8981853.3406 496EBLB
ERNAGERMIB50 34 55N 004 41 21E157515.09206 459
FLORENNESMIL50 14 04N 004 39 11E287.558943.43206 456EBFS
GENKRMIB50 56 00N 005 30 00E63206.69306 481
GENT/INDUSTRIE-ZONERMIB51 10 50N 003 48 15E826.24706 431
HOUTHALEN-HELCHTERENMIL51 03 01N 005 26 08E77.217253.33706 413EBHH
HUMAINRMIB50 11 37N 005 15 20E296971.12906 472
KLEINE-BROGELMIL51 10 08N 005 27 46E54.786179.74406 479EBBL
KOKSIJDEMIL51 05 17N 002 39 09E4.07513.36906 400EBFN
LIEGE-BIERSETskeyes50 38 45N 005 27 20E181.03593.93006 478EBLG
MARCHE-EN-FAMENNEMIL50 14 16N 005 21 21E219.398719.81006 417EBMF
MELLERMIB50 58 49N 003 48 57E1549.21306 434
MONT-RIGIRMIB50 30 39N 006 04 24E6732208.00506 494
OOSTENDE (AIRPORT)skeyes51 12 01N 002 53 14E413.12306 407EBOS
OOSTENDE (PIER)RMIB51 14 00N 002 55 00E929.52806 408
RETIERMIB51 13 17N 005 01 38E2168.89806 464
SAINT-HUBERTskeyes50 02 20N 005 24 14E557.031827.52606 476EBSH
SCHAFFENMIL50 59 49N 005 03 43E51.780169.88206 465EBDT
SEMMERZAKEMIL50 56 26N 003 40 11E34.762114.04906 428EBSZ
SINT-KATELIJNE-WAVERRMIB51 04 30N 004 31 29E1136.08906 439
SPA/LA SAUVENIEREskeyes50 28 43N 005 54 36E477.351566.10906 490EBSP
STABROEKRMIB51 19 29N 004 21 50E619.68506 438
UCCLERMIB50 47 49N 004 21 29E101331.36506 447EBUM
ZEEBRUGGERMIB51 20 50N 003 12 06E929.52806 418

Source: https://oscar.wmo.int

Note 1: Elevation HP is the datum level to which barometric pressure reports at the station refers.

Note 2: Service:

  • MIL: MET stations of the Belgian Air and Space Component.
  • skeyes: MET stations of the Civil Aviation Authority.
  • RMIB: MET stations of the Royal Meteorological Institute of Belgium.
2.7   Regulations
2.7.1   International Flights of Transport Aircraft

The basic obligations for meteorological service for International Air Navigation are contained in the ICAO Annex 3.

Pilots-in-command of transport aircraft and meteorological officers should comply with the regulations concerning briefing, de-briefing, documentation and in-flight weather observation and reporting.

2.7.2   Operational and Training Flights
2.7.2.1   Briefing

No pilot is allowed to take-off unless he is fully briefed on the meteorological situation.Attendance to a general or an individual meteorological briefing is mandatory. This shall be by means of personal contact with the aerodrome meteorological office or by means of consultation of network displayed briefings. When personal briefing or consultation is impracticable, meteorological information should be provided by telephone or other suitable telecommunication facilities.Flight documentation will be issued when considered necessary and as agreed between aerodrome meteorological office and the flight crew members.

2.7.2.2   In-flight Weather Observation

Debriefing should always include the weather elements so that actual enroute information is obtained. If the qualified meteorological officer does not receive the weather de-briefing, weather information should be made available to the debriefing officer who will pass it to the local meteorological office or station for onward dissemination through national channels.Aircrew will usually be able to provide detailed information and they are encouraged to draft a pilot-report (PIREP) using the pro-format. The value of aircrew weather reports is increased if, prior to take-off, pilots are given some indication where weather observation is considered most important.

2.8   Summary of MIL AFTN Addresses
METEO STATIONSERVICEAFTN-ADDRESS
BEAUVECHAINMeteo Station
Military Meteorological Center		EBBEYMYX
EBWMYMYX
CHIEVRESMeteo StationEBCVYMYX
ELSENBORNMeteo StationEBLBYMYX
FLORENNESMeteo StationEBFSYMYX
KLEINE-BROGELMeteo StationEBBLYMYX
KOKSIJDEMeteo StationEBFNYMYX
SCHAFFENMeteo StationEBDTYMYX
SEMMERZAKEMeteo StationEBSZYMYX