Current Weather
Raw METAR
Clouds - Visual Profile
Weather Briefing
MVFRSanta Maria Public Airport Captain G Allan Hancock Field is currently reporting marginal VFR (MVFR) conditions with overcast skies at 1,400 feet and 6 SM visibility.
Wind Analysis
Winds are from the west (280°) at 8 knots. Runway 30 is favored with a 8-knot headwind and 3-knot crosswind component.
Visibility & Ceiling
Visibility is 6 SM. The ceiling is 1400 feet AGL (overcast), placing conditions in the MVFR category.
Temperature & Moisture
Temperature is 12°C (54°F) with a dewpoint of 11°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 24 hours. The forecast shows a transition between VFR and IFR conditions. Pilots should monitor the forecast closely and have an alternate airport plan. Expected weather includes: Mist, Vicinity Fog. Expect variable wind speeds ranging from 3 to 15 knots.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 02/20 | 5,130 ft | 75 ft | ASP | 35° |
↓ 3.4 kt
•
↔ 7.3 kt
115° angle
|
|
✈️ 12/30
Active: 30
|
6,304 ft | 150 ft | ASP | 135° |
↑ 7.5 kt
•
↔ 2.7 kt
20° angle
|
Weather Statistics - KSMX
7,475 observations | Sep 2025 - May 2026Flight Rules Distribution
Santa Maria Public Airport Captain G Allan Hancock Field typically experiences VFR conditions 70.3% of the time, though instrument-rated pilots will find IFR weather present approximately 17.2% of observations. Prevailing winds are from the W averaging 6.8 knots, with gusts recorded up to 32 knots. Calm conditions occur 31.9% of the time. Temperature extremes range from 2°C to 34°C, reflecting significant seasonal variation. The best months for VFR flying are February, January, March.
Wind Analysis
Temperature Range
Visibility
Best Months for VFR
Runway Wind Analysis
Statistics computed from 7,475 METAR observations (Sep 2025 - May 2026). Data sourced from official aviation weather services. Updated daily.
Santa Maria Public Airport Captain G Allan Hancock Field - Airport Information
Airport Details
Location
Runway Information
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About Santa Maria Public Airport Captain G Allan Hancock Field
Overview
Santa Maria Public Airport serves the central California coastal region, located in Santa Maria, California. As a medium-sized airport with two paved runways, it supports general aviation, commercial, and potentially agricultural aviation operations. The airport sits at 261 feet above mean sea level with coordinates that place it in a strategic position within Santa Maria's transportation infrastructure.
Flying Conditions
Pilots can expect predominantly visual flight rules (VFR) conditions, with 67.1% of observations supporting clear weather operations. The airport experiences significant wind influence, with western winds averaging 6.3 knots and occasional gusts up to 25 knots. Temperature ranges from 2°C to 28°C create generally stable flying conditions, though pilots should be aware of potential low visibility periods, with fog occurring in 12.9% of observations.
Notable Features
The airport features two asphalt runways: Runway 02/20 at 5,130 feet and Runway 12/30 at 6,304 feet. Both runways demonstrate 100% favorable wind alignment, which provides consistent approach options. The coastal location suggests potential for marine layer intrusions and associated visibility challenges, particularly during cooler months.
Approach Considerations
Given the prevailing western winds, pilots should anticipate minimal crosswind challenges, with average crosswind components of 5.2 knots on Runway 02/20 and 2.5 knots on Runway 12/30. Winter months (November, December, January) offer the most consistent VFR conditions, while pilots should be prepared for potential reduced visibility scenarios during other periods.
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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Recommended guides based on current conditions at KSMX
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.