Military Airport
PPR AvailableThis is a Royal Air Force or Ministry of Defence aerodrome. Civil access may be available with Prior Permission Required (PPR).
Access Notes:
Many RAF stations accept civil PPR; consult UK AIP AD 2 for specific procedures
Current Weather
Raw METAR
Clouds - Visual Profile
Weather Briefing
MVFRRAF Fairford is currently reporting marginal VFR (MVFR) conditions with overcast skies at 1,100 feet and 10 miles or greater visibility. Note: This observation is 1.1 hours old and conditions may have changed.
Wind Analysis
Winds are from the west-southwest (250°) at 9 knots. Runway 27 is favored with a 8-knot headwind and 3-knot crosswind component.
Visibility & Ceiling
Visibility is unrestricted. The ceiling is 1100 feet AGL (overcast), placing conditions in the MVFR category.
Temperature & Moisture
Temperature is 17°C (63°F) with a dewpoint of 14°C. The narrow temperature-dewpoint spread suggests high humidity and potential for visibility restrictions, especially during cooling periods.
Forecast Outlook
The TAF forecast covers the next 30 hours. The forecast shows a transition between VFR and IFR conditions. Pilots should monitor the forecast closely and have an alternate airport plan. Temporary IFR conditions are forecast between 01:00Z and 08:00Z. Temporary VFR conditions are forecast between 14:00Z and 20:00Z.
Pilot Recommendations
VFR pilots should exercise caution. Consider filing IFR if instrument rated, or postponing the flight if conditions are expected to deteriorate further. The narrow temperature-dewpoint spread creates risk of fog formation, particularly during evening and early morning hours. The forecast indicates conditions may deteriorate. Ensure you have fuel reserves and a viable alternate airport.
This briefing is generated from real-time METAR and TAF data. Always verify with official sources before flight.
Forecast (TAF)
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Airport Runway Layout
Runway Information
| Runway | Length | Width | Surface | Heading | Wind Component |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
✈️ 09/27
Active: 27
|
9,994 ft | 200 ft | ASP | 88° |
↑ 8.5 kt
•
↔ 3.1 kt
20° angle
|
Weather Statistics - EGVA
8,185 observations | Sep 2025 - Jul 2026Flight Rules Distribution
RAF Fairford is frequently affected by reduced visibility conditions, with VFR weather only 50.2% of the time and IFR/LIFR conditions occurring in 19.6% of observations. Prevailing winds are from the SW averaging 9.1 knots. Temperature extremes range from -6°C to 37°C, reflecting significant seasonal variation. The best months for VFR flying are April, May, September.
Wind Analysis
Temperature Range
Visibility
Best Months for VFR
Runway Wind Analysis
Statistics computed from 8,185 METAR observations (Sep 2025 - Jul 2026). Data sourced from official aviation weather services. Updated daily.
RAF Fairford - Airport Information
Airport Details
Location
Runway Information
Flight Planning Tools
Nearby Airports
About RAF Fairford
RAF Fairford is a military facility. Civilian access may be restricted or require Prior Permission (PPR). Pilots should consult the GB AIP for current access procedures and restrictions.
Overview
RAF Fairford is a medium-sized airport located in Gloucestershire, United Kingdom, situated at 286 feet above mean sea level. The airport serves primarily military aviation needs, with a substantial 9,994-foot asphalt runway capable of handling large aircraft. Its strategic location in southwestern England provides important infrastructure for military and potential civilian operations.
Flying Conditions
Weather conditions at RAF Fairford demonstrate significant variability, with Visual Flight Rules (VFR) conditions prevailing 45.3% of the time. Pilots can expect predominantly southwestern winds averaging 9.2 knots, with temperatures ranging from -6°C to 24°C and an average of 10 statute miles visibility. September, October, and November represent the most favorable months for VFR flying, offering the most consistent meteorological conditions.
Notable Features
The airport's single runway (09/27) is oriented to take maximum advantage of prevailing southwestern winds, which align favorably 100% of the time. Crosswinds average a manageable 5.7 knots, presenting minimal challenges for most aircraft operations. The terrain surrounding Fairford is characteristic of the Gloucestershire region, with relatively flat landscapes that provide predictable approach and departure environments.
Approach Considerations
Runway 09/27 offers excellent wind alignment, with the prevailing southwestern winds providing optimal approach conditions. Pilots should anticipate calm conditions approximately 12% of the time and be prepared for potential wind variations up to 30 knots. The extensive 9,994-foot runway provides substantial landing and takeoff margin for a wide range of aircraft types.
Data Sources & Accuracy: Airport information sourced from OurAirports.com, a collaborative database of worldwide airport data. Weather data from official aviation weather services including NOAA Aviation Weather Center and international METAR/TAF providers. Information is updated regularly but pilots should always verify current conditions and NOTAMs through official channels before flight operations.
Learn More
Recommended guides based on current conditions at EGVA
Official Data Sources
Disclaimer: Data is provided for informational purposes only. Pilots must verify all information through official sources before flight operations. Weather conditions change rapidly; always obtain a current briefing from approved weather services.