Current Weather
Raw METAR
Clouds - Visual Profile
Weather Briefing
VFRRarotonga International Airport is currently reporting visual flight rules (VFR) conditions with overcast skies at 8,500 feet and 10 miles or greater visibility.
Wind Analysis
Winds are from the east (100°) at 7 knots. Runway 08/26 is favored with a 7-knot headwind and 2-knot crosswind component.
Visibility & Ceiling
Visibility is unrestricted. The ceiling is 5000 feet AGL (broken), well above standard VFR minimums.
Temperature & Moisture
Temperature is 20°C (68°F) with a dewpoint of 19°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. Conditions are expected to fluctuate between VFR and MVFR. VFR pilots should be prepared for deteriorating conditions. Expected weather includes: Light Showers Rain, Showers Rain. There is a 40% probability of MVFR conditions with Showers Rain between 00:00Z and 12:00Z.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
✈️ 08/26
Active: 08
|
7,638 ft | 150 ft | CON | 90° |
↑ 6.6 kt
•
↔ 2.4 kt
20° angle
|
Weather Statistics - NCRG
7,199 observations | Sep 2025 - Jul 2026Flight Rules Distribution
Rarotonga International Airport typically experiences VFR conditions 79% of the time, though instrument-rated pilots will find IFR weather present approximately 0.3% of observations. Prevailing winds are from the E averaging 7.6 knots, with gusts recorded up to 108 knots. Temperatures typically range between 16°C and 38°C with an average of 25.3°C. The best months for VFR flying are July, April, September.
Wind Analysis
Temperature Range
Visibility
Best Months for VFR
Runway Wind Analysis
Statistics computed from 7,199 METAR observations (Sep 2025 - Jul 2026). Data sourced from official aviation weather services. Updated daily.
Rarotonga International Airport - Airport Information
Airport Details
Location
Runway Information
Flight Planning Tools
About Rarotonga International Airport
Overview
Rarotonga International Airport serves as the primary aviation gateway to the Cook Islands, located in the South Pacific. Situated in Avarua, the airport is a medium-sized facility positioned at 19 feet above mean sea level, providing critical international and regional connectivity for this island nation.
Flying Conditions
Weather conditions at Rarotonga are predominantly VFR, with 78.2% of observations indicating clear flying conditions. The airport experiences consistent easterly winds averaging 7.8 knots, with occasional stronger gusts up to 43 knots. Seasonal variations show optimal VFR conditions in September, January, and November, with stable temperature ranges between 17°C and 32°C.
Notable Features
The single runway (08/26) spans 7,638 feet with a concrete surface, oriented to take advantage of the prevailing easterly wind pattern. Its geographical location presents a unique Pacific island aviation environment, with surrounding maritime terrain potentially influencing local wind and approach dynamics. The airport's low elevation and consistent wind characteristics make it relatively predictable for instrument-rated pilots.
Approach Considerations
Runway 08/26 demonstrates highly favorable wind alignment, with 100% wind compatibility and minimal average crosswind of 3.1 knots. Pilots can expect excellent visibility conditions, with an average visibility of 10 statute miles and no significant fog occurrences. The consistent easterly wind makes eastern approaches (runway 08) typically most advantageous for landing 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 NCRG
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.