Current Weather
Raw METAR
Clouds - Visual Profile
Weather Briefing
VFRNorthwest Alabama Regional Airport is currently reporting visual flight rules (VFR) conditions with broken clouds at 4,900 feet and 10 SM visibility.
Wind Analysis
Winds are from the south-southwest (200°) at 4 knots.
Visibility & Ceiling
Visibility is 10 SM. The ceiling is 4900 feet AGL (broken), well above standard VFR minimums.
Temperature & Moisture
Temperature is 33°C (91°F) with a dewpoint of 22°C, indicating relatively dry conditions. High temperatures at this elevation may result in significant density altitude effects. Pilots should calculate density altitude and adjust performance expectations accordingly.
Forecast Outlook
The TAF forecast covers the next 20 hours. Conditions are expected to fluctuate between VFR and MVFR. VFR pilots should be prepared for deteriorating conditions. Expected weather includes: Mist. Temporary MVFR conditions are forecast with Mist between 09:00Z and 12:00Z.
Pilot Recommendations
Conditions are favorable for visual flight. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11/29 | 6,693 ft | 150 ft | ASP | 114° |
↑ 0.3 kt
•
↔ 4.0 kt
86° angle
|
|
✈️ 18/36
Active: 18
|
4,000 ft | 100 ft | ASP | 181° |
↑ 3.8 kt
•
↔ 1.4 kt
20° angle
|
Weather Statistics - KMSL
8,389 observations | Sep 2025 - Jul 2026Flight Rules Distribution
Northwest Alabama Regional Airport typically experiences VFR conditions 75.2% of the time, though instrument-rated pilots will find IFR weather present approximately 8.2% of observations. Prevailing winds are from the S averaging 6.8 knots, with gusts recorded up to 34 knots. Calm conditions occur 23.9% of the time. Temperature extremes range from -10°C to 36°C, reflecting significant seasonal variation. The best months for VFR flying are July, September, April.
Wind Analysis
Temperature Range
Visibility
Best Months for VFR
Runway Wind Analysis
Statistics computed from 8,389 METAR observations (Sep 2025 - Jul 2026). Data sourced from official aviation weather services. Updated daily.
Northwest Alabama Regional Airport - Airport Information
Airport Details
Location
Runway Information
Flight Planning Tools
Nearby Airports
About Northwest Alabama Regional Airport
Overview
Northwest Alabama Regional Airport serves the Muscle Shoals metropolitan area, providing critical aviation infrastructure for northwest Alabama. Located at 34.745123, -87.612981 and elevated at 551 feet MSL, the airport supports regional transportation with two asphalt runways. Its medium airport classification indicates capability for diverse general aviation and potentially limited commercial operations.
Flying Conditions
Weather conditions at KMSL demonstrate generally favorable flying environments, with VFR conditions predominating 74.6% of the time. Seasonal temperatures range extensively from -8°C to 34°C, with an average of 13.9°C. September through November offer the most consistent VFR conditions, while visibility averages an excellent 9.4 statute miles with minimal periods of restricted visibility.
Notable Features
Both runways (11/29 and 18/36) exhibit consistent wind alignment, with 100% favorable wind coverage. The primary runway 11/29 spans 6,693 feet, providing substantial length for most aircraft operations. Prevailing winds from the south (180°) average 6.5 knots, with occasional gusts up to 34 knots and calm conditions occurring 29.1% of the time.
Approach Considerations
Pilots can expect minimal crosswind challenges, with average crosswind components of 3.9 knots for runway 11/29 and 4.1 knots for runway 18/36. The airport's terrain and elevation suggest standard approach considerations typical of a regional facility. During marginal conditions, pilots should anticipate potential transitions between VFR (74.6%) and MVFR (16.8%) flight rules.
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 KMSL
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.