Current Weather
Raw METAR
Weather Briefing
VFRCastle Airport is currently reporting visual flight rules (VFR) conditions with clear skies and 10 SM visibility. Note: This observation is 6.2 hours old and conditions may have changed.
Wind Analysis
Winds are from the north-northwest (330°) at 8 knots. Runway 31 is favored with a 8-knot headwind and 3-knot crosswind component.
Visibility & Ceiling
Visibility is 10 SM. Skies are clear with unlimited ceiling.
Temperature & Moisture
Temperature data is not available.
Forecast Outlook
The TAF forecast covers the next 24 hours. Conditions are expected to remain VFR throughout the forecast period.
Pilot Recommendations
Conditions are favorable for visual flight.
This briefing is generated from real-time METAR and TAF data. Always verify with official sources before flight.
Forecast (TAF)
View Full TAF24-Hour Weather Evolution
- • Current conditions from METAR observations
- • Historical data from past 24 hours
- • No forecast or predicted data included
- • Data updated with each new METAR report
- • Hover for exact values and timestamps
- • Click legend items to toggle data series
- • Zoom and pan for detailed analysis
- • Units automatically converted to preferences
Airport Runway Layout
Runway Information
| Runway | Length | Width | Surface | Heading | Wind Component |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
✈️ 13/31
Active: 31
|
11,802 ft | 150 ft | PEM | 141° |
↑ 7.5 kt
•
↔ 2.7 kt
20° angle
|
Weather Statistics - KMER
1,700 observations | Oct 2025 - May 2026Flight Rules Distribution
Castle Airport typically experiences VFR conditions 76.9% of the time, though instrument-rated pilots will find IFR weather present approximately 12.1% of observations. Prevailing winds are from the NW averaging 10.3 knots, with gusts recorded up to 108 knots. Calm conditions occur 42.9% of the time. Temperatures typically range between 6°C and 26°C with an average of 10.3°C. Low visibility conditions (below 3 SM) occur in 6% of weather observations. The best months for VFR flying are May, October, March.
Wind Analysis
Temperature Range
Visibility
Best Months for VFR
Runway Wind Analysis
Statistics computed from 1,700 METAR observations (Oct 2025 - May 2026). Data sourced from official aviation weather services. Updated daily.
Castle Airport - Airport Information
Airport Details
Location
Runway Information
Flight Planning Tools
Nearby Airports
About Castle Airport
Overview
Castle Airport serves the Merced area in California's Central Valley, positioned at 191 feet above mean sea level. As a medium-sized airport with a substantial 11,802-foot primary runway (13/31), it supports diverse aviation operations in a strategic regional location.
Flying Conditions
Weather conditions at Castle Airport demonstrate significant variability, with Visual Flight Rules (VFR) prevailing in 56.6% of observations. Pilots should anticipate potential instrument meteorological conditions, with 15.7% IFR and 15.2% Low IFR periods, particularly during transitional seasons. Temperatures range from 6°C to 26°C, with an average of 10.3°C.
Notable Features
The airport experiences predominantly southeast winds at 135 degrees, averaging 11.6 knots with occasional gusts up to 25 knots. Visibility averages 6.4 statute miles, with 16.5% of observations showing reduced visibility and 15.8% experiencing fog conditions. Calm wind periods are frequent, occurring in 67.9% of recorded observations.
Approach Considerations
Runway 13/31 offers favorable wind alignment 100% of the time, with an average crosswind component of just 4.5 knots. October, January, and December represent the most consistently favorable VFR months for aviation operations. Pilots should prepare for potential visibility restrictions and be prepared to utilize instrument procedures during less predictable weather 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.
Learn More
Recommended guides based on current conditions at KMER
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.