Current Weather
Raw METAR
Weather Briefing
LIFRPietermaritzburg Airport is currently reporting low IFR (LIFR) conditions with clear skies and 0.9 km visibility. Note: This observation is 386.4 hours old and conditions may have changed.
Wind Analysis
Winds are calm, presenting no crosswind concerns for any runway.
Visibility & Ceiling
Visibility is severely reduced to 0.9 km, likely due to fog, mist, or precipitation. Special VFR or an IFR clearance may be required. Skies are clear with unlimited ceiling.
Temperature & Moisture
Temperature is 10°C (50°F) with a dewpoint of 9°C. The temperature-dewpoint spread is very narrow, indicating saturated or near-saturated air. Fog formation or low cloud development is likely.
Forecast Outlook
The TAF forecast covers the next 11 hours. Conditions are expected to remain VFR throughout the forecast period.
Pilot Recommendations
Current conditions require an instrument rating, IFR-equipped aircraft, and an IFR clearance. Check approach minimums carefully as conditions may be below CAT I ILS minimums. The narrow temperature-dewpoint spread creates risk of fog formation, particularly during evening and early morning hours.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 16/34 | 5,043 ft | 98 ft | ASP | 142° | No wind data |
Pietermaritzburg Airport - Airport Information
Airport Details
Location
Runway Information
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About Pietermaritzburg Airport
Overview
Pietermaritzburg Airport serves the urban and regional transportation needs of the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands region in South Africa. Located at an elevation of 2423 feet mean sea level, the airport provides critical infrastructure for general aviation, regional connections, and potential commercial operations. Its geographic positioning near Pietermaritzburg offers strategic access to the surrounding metropolitan and rural areas.
Flying Conditions
The airport's elevated position at 2423 ft MSL suggests potential for variable atmospheric conditions typical of inland South African terrain. Pilots should anticipate temperature and density altitude variations that can impact aircraft performance, particularly during warmer months. The single runway's orientation of 16/34 provides some wind flexibility for operations.
Notable Features
The airport features a 5043-foot asphalted runway (16/34), which supports medium-sized aircraft operations. Its coordinate location at -29.649000, 30.398701 places it in a region with potentially complex terrain and meteorological interactions between coastal and inland atmospheric systems. The runway length and surface type indicate suitability for general aviation and smaller commercial aircraft.
Approach Considerations
Runway 16/34's substantial length of 5043 feet allows for relatively flexible approach options, with potential preferences based on prevailing wind conditions. Pilots should conduct thorough pre-flight planning to understand current wind patterns and their potential impact on landing and takeoff performance. Standard instrument approach procedures and local meteorological briefing are recommended for safe operations.
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 FAPM
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.