Military Airport
RestrictedThis is a U.S. military installation. Civil aircraft operations are generally prohibited without prior authorization.
Access Notes:
Most military airfields closed to civil traffic; some joint-use exceptions exist
Current Weather
Raw METAR
Weather Briefing
VFRMcChord Air Force Base is currently reporting visual flight rules (VFR) conditions with clear skies and 10 SM visibility.
Wind Analysis
Winds are from the south-southwest (210°) at 10 knots. Runway 16/34 is favored with a 6-knot headwind and 8-knot crosswind component.
Visibility & Ceiling
Visibility is 10 SM. Skies are clear with unlimited ceiling.
Temperature & Moisture
Temperature is 9°C (48°F) with a dewpoint of 8°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 30 hours. Conditions are expected to fluctuate between VFR and MVFR. VFR pilots should be prepared for deteriorating conditions. Expected weather includes: Light Showers Rain.
Pilot Recommendations
Conditions are favorable for visual flight. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
✈️ 16/34
Active: 16
|
10,108 ft | 150 ft | ASP | 180° |
↑ 6.4 kt
•
↔ 7.7 kt
50° angle
|
| 160/340 | 3,000 ft | 60 ft | ASPH | 0° |
↓ 8.7 kt
•
↔ 5.0 kt
150° angle
|
Weather Statistics - KTCM
11,771 observations | Sep 2025 - May 2026Flight Rules Distribution
McChord Air Force Base is frequently affected by reduced visibility conditions, with VFR weather only 56.2% of the time and IFR/LIFR conditions occurring in 21.5% of observations. Prevailing winds are from the S averaging 7.1 knots, with gusts recorded up to 31 knots. Calm conditions occur 38.3% of the time. Temperature extremes range from -7°C to 33°C, reflecting significant seasonal variation. The best months for VFR flying are September, October, February.
Wind Analysis
Temperature Range
Visibility
Best Months for VFR
Runway Wind Analysis
Statistics computed from 11,771 METAR observations (Sep 2025 - May 2026). Data sourced from official aviation weather services. Updated daily.
McChord Air Force Base - Airport Information
Airport Details
Location
Runway Information
Flight Planning Tools
Nearby Airports
About McChord Air Force Base
McChord Air Force Base is a military facility. Civilian access may be restricted or require Prior Permission (PPR). Pilots should consult the US AIP for current access procedures and restrictions.
Overview
McChord Air Force Base (KTCM) is a medium airport located in Tacoma, Washington, serving critical military aviation operations. Situated at 322 feet mean sea level, the base features two paved runways that support military and strategic airlift missions in the Pacific Northwest region.
Flying Conditions
The airport experiences diverse weather conditions, with Visual Flight Rules (VFR) prevailing 54.3% of the time. Pilots should anticipate significant variability, including Marginal VFR (20.9%) and Instrument Flight Rules (10.9%) conditions. Temperature ranges from -4°C to 33°C, with an average of 7.9°C, and wind patterns predominantly from the south at an average of 7.2 knots.
Notable Features
Located at coordinates 47.137699, -122.475998, McChord AFB offers two runways: a primary 10,108-foot runway and a secondary 3,000-foot runway. Both runways demonstrate consistent wind alignment, with 100% favorable wind conditions and an average crosswind of 4.6 knots. Visibility averages 9 statute miles, with occasional reduced visibility due to fog (10.4% occurrence).
Approach Considerations
September through November represent the most favorable VFR months for operations. Pilots should be prepared for potential reduced visibility, with 2.5% of observations showing visibility below 3 statute miles. The prevailing south winds and minimal crosswind make both runways consistently accessible, with calm conditions present 41.9% of the time.
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 KTCM
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.