Current Weather
Raw METAR
Clouds - Visual Profile
Weather Briefing
IFRVandenberg Space Force Base is currently reporting instrument flight rules (IFR) conditions with overcast skies at 700 feet and 8 SM visibility.
Wind Analysis
Winds are from the north-northwest (330°) at 9 knots. Runway 30 is favored with a 8-knot headwind and 5-knot crosswind component.
Visibility & Ceiling
Visibility is 8 SM. The ceiling is 700 feet AGL (overcast). Only precision approaches may be usable depending on minimums.
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 30 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, Fog.
Pilot Recommendations
An instrument rating and IFR flight plan are required. Verify that destination and alternate approach minimums are above current and forecast conditions. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
✈️ 12/30
Active: 30
|
15,000 ft | 200 ft | CON | 136° |
↑ 7.8 kt
•
↔ 4.5 kt
30° angle
|
Weather Statistics - KVBG
7,584 observations | Sep 2025 - May 2026Flight Rules Distribution
Vandenberg Space Force Base typically experiences VFR conditions 63.9% of the time, though instrument-rated pilots will find IFR weather present approximately 22.9% of observations. Prevailing winds are from the N averaging 7.4 knots. Calm conditions occur 15.9% of the time. Temperatures typically range between 2°C and 32°C with an average of 14°C. The best months for VFR flying are January, February, March.
Wind Analysis
Temperature Range
Visibility
Best Months for VFR
Runway Wind Analysis
Statistics computed from 7,584 METAR observations (Sep 2025 - May 2026). Data sourced from official aviation weather services. Updated daily.
Vandenberg Space Force Base - Airport Information
Airport Details
Location
Runway Information
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About Vandenberg Space Force Base
Overview
Vandenberg Space Force Base is a medium airport located near Lompoc, California, primarily serving space and military operations. Situated at 369 ft MSL with coordinates 34.737301, -120.584000, the base features a substantial 15,000 ft concrete runway (12/30). Its strategic coastal location makes it critical for space launch and defense-related aviation activities.
Flying Conditions
The airport experiences predominantly VFR conditions (61% of observations), with significant variability in weather patterns. Prevailing southeast winds at an average of 7.2 knots and temperatures ranging from 2°C to 29°C characterize typical conditions. Pilots should anticipate occasional reduced visibility, with 6.2% of observations reporting fog and 2.7% showing visibility below 3 statute miles.
Notable Features
The base's single runway 12/30 demonstrates excellent wind alignment, with 100% favorable wind coverage and an average crosswind of only 3.7 knots. The coastal California location introduces complex terrain interactions that can impact local wind and visibility conditions. Winter months (November, December, January) consistently offer the most stable VFR flying conditions.
Approach Considerations
With a long 15,000 ft concrete runway, Vandenberg Space Force Base offers substantial landing flexibility. Pilots should anticipate southeast wind patterns and prepare for potential fog or reduced visibility, especially outside the peak VFR months. The runway's extensive length provides significant safety margins for diverse aircraft 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 KVBG
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.