Current Weather
Raw METAR
Weather Briefing
VFREl Centro NAF Airport (Vraciu Field) is currently reporting visual flight rules (VFR) conditions with clear skies and 10 SM visibility.
Wind Analysis
Winds are from the west-southwest (250°) at 23 knots with gusts to 33 knots. Runway 26 is favored with a 23-knot headwind and 4-knot crosswind component (gusting to 6 knots crosswind). Student pilots and low-time aviators should exercise caution.
Visibility & Ceiling
Visibility is 10 SM. Skies are clear with unlimited ceiling.
Temperature & Moisture
Temperature is 35°C (95°F) with a dewpoint of -1°C, indicating very dry conditions. High temperatures at this elevation may result in significant density altitude effects. Pilots should calculate density altitude and adjust performance expectations accordingly.
Forecast Outlook
The TAF forecast covers the next 24 hours. The forecast shows a transition between VFR and IFR conditions. Pilots should monitor the forecast closely and have an alternate airport plan. Expect variable wind speeds ranging from 6 to 18 knots. Temporary VFR conditions are forecast between 23:00Z and 05:00Z.
Pilot Recommendations
Conditions are favorable for visual flight. Gusty conditions may exceed demonstrated crosswind components for many general aviation aircraft. Check your aircraft's limitations. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
✈️ 08/26
Active: 26
|
9,503 ft | 200 ft | PEM | 89° |
↑ 22.7 kt
•
↔ 4.0 kt
10° angle
|
| 12/30 | 6,823 ft | 200 ft | PEM | 135° |
↓ 9.7 kt
•
↔ 20.8 kt
115° angle
|
Weather Statistics - KNJK
8,343 observations | Sep 2025 - May 2026Flight Rules Distribution
El Centro NAF Airport (Vraciu Field) enjoys predominantly VFR conditions, with visual flight rules prevailing 98% of the time. Prevailing winds are from the W averaging 7.7 knots, with gusts recorded up to 33 knots. Calm conditions occur 14% of the time. Temperature extremes range from 2°C to 42°C, reflecting significant seasonal variation. The best months for VFR flying are March, May, September.
Wind Analysis
Temperature Range
Visibility
Best Months for VFR
Runway Wind Analysis
Statistics computed from 8,343 METAR observations (Sep 2025 - May 2026). Data sourced from official aviation weather services. Updated daily.
El Centro NAF Airport (Vraciu Field) - Airport Information
Airport Details
Location
Runway Information
Flight Planning Tools
Nearby Airports
About El Centro NAF Airport (Vraciu Field)
Overview
El Centro NAF Airport (Vraciu Field) is a medium-sized naval air facility located in El Centro, California, situated at an unusually low elevation of -42 feet mean sea level. The airport serves naval aviation operations with two substantial runways capable of handling significant aircraft traffic. Its geographic position in Southern California provides strategic operational capabilities for military and potentially some civilian aviation activities.
Flying Conditions
The airport experiences predominantly excellent visual flight conditions, with 97% of observations reporting VFR weather. Temperature ranges from 2°C to 41°C, with an average of 19.2°C, indicating significant thermal variability. Wind patterns are consistent from the west (270°), averaging 6.3 knots with occasional stronger gusts up to 30 knots, though calm conditions occur 18.4% of the time. September, October, and December represent the most favorable VFR months for aviation operations.
Notable Features
Both runways (08/26 and 12/30) are constructed with PEM (Possibly Equivalent Material) surfaces and offer substantial lengths of 9,503 and 6,823 feet respectively. The airport's negative mean sea level elevation is a unique geographical characteristic that could influence atmospheric and aircraft performance conditions. Both runways demonstrate excellent wind alignment, with 100% favorable wind coverage and minimal average crosswind components of 2.8 and 3.7 knots.
Approach Considerations
Pilots can expect consistently favorable wind conditions for both runways, with minimal crosswind challenges. Average visibility of 9.8 statute miles and extremely low occurrence of reduced visibility (only 0.6% below 3SM and 0.5% fog) suggest generally excellent approach conditions. The substantial runway lengths provide ample landing and takeoff capabilities for most aircraft types, with Runway 08/26 offering the longest surface at 9,503 feet.
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.
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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.