Current Weather
Raw METAR
Clouds - Visual Profile
Weather Briefing
MVFREl Calafate - Commander Armando Tola International Airport is currently reporting marginal VFR (MVFR) conditions with broken clouds at 1,500 feet and 10 miles or greater visibility.
Wind Analysis
Winds are calm, presenting no crosswind concerns for any runway.
Visibility & Ceiling
Visibility is unrestricted. The ceiling is 1500 feet AGL (broken), placing conditions in the MVFR category.
Temperature & Moisture
Temperature is 4°C (39°F) with a dewpoint of 0°C. The narrow temperature-dewpoint spread suggests high humidity and potential for visibility restrictions, especially during cooling periods.
Forecast Outlook
The TAF forecast covers the next 24 hours. IFR conditions are expected to persist or develop. An instrument rating and IFR flight plan are recommended. Expected weather includes: Fog, Light Drizzle. There is a 40% probability of LIFR conditions with Fog, Light Drizzle between 10:00Z and 15:00Z.
Pilot Recommendations
VFR pilots should exercise caution. Consider filing IFR if instrument rated, or postponing the flight if conditions are expected to deteriorate further. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7/25 | 8,366 ft | 148 ft | CON | 84° | No wind data |
Weather Statistics - SAWC
7,016 observations | Sep 2025 - Jul 2026Flight Rules Distribution
El Calafate - Commander Armando Tola International Airport enjoys predominantly VFR conditions, with visual flight rules prevailing 96.2% of the time. Prevailing winds are from the W averaging 11.6 knots, with gusts recorded up to 41 knots. Temperature extremes range from -7°C to 60°C, reflecting significant seasonal variation. The best months for VFR flying are January, July, December.
Wind Analysis
Temperature Range
Visibility
Best Months for VFR
Statistics computed from 7,016 METAR observations (Sep 2025 - Jul 2026). Data sourced from official aviation weather services. Updated daily.
El Calafate - Commander Armando Tola International Airport - Airport Information
Airport Details
Location
Runway Information
Flight Planning Tools
About El Calafate - Commander Armando Tola International Airport
Overview
El Calafate - Commander Armando Tola International Airport serves the southern Patagonian region of Argentina, located near the city of El Calafate in Santa Cruz Province. The airport supports regional and international air traffic at an elevation of 669 feet above mean sea level, providing critical aviation infrastructure in this remote part of South America.
Flying Conditions
Patagonian weather can be characterized by strong and variable winds, which are significant considerations for pilots operating at this airport. The single runway (7/25) measuring 8,366 feet long with a concrete surface provides substantial operational flexibility for aircraft handling challenging regional meteorological conditions.
Notable Features
The airport is situated in a geographical context of dramatic terrain, with proximity to the Andes Mountains and Patagonian plains influencing local atmospheric dynamics. Its coordinates at -50.280300, -72.053101 place it in a region known for rapidly changing weather patterns and potential wind shear conditions that demand heightened pilot situational awareness.
Approach Considerations
Runway 7/25 offers a substantial landing surface suitable for medium-sized aircraft operations, with its orientation potentially providing some wind alignment benefits. Pilots should anticipate potential crosswind components and be prepared for rapid meteorological changes typical of the Patagonian landscape when planning approaches to this airport.
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 SAWC
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.