Equipment failure disrupts flight service

Equipment failure disrupts flight service

By AOPA ePublishing staff

Flight service’s weather briefing hotline broke down for about 20 minutes on Feb. 6, making it impossible for pilots nationwide to contact FSS through 800/WX-BRIEF.

The problem occurred in the afternoon when Lockheed Martin’s call director failed and its backup did not start. AOPA has been in contact with Lockheed to ensure the problem does not happen again. The association also has informed the Department of Transportation inspector general of the issue.

AOPA encourages pilots to use its flight planning tips card, which provides shortcuts through the new FSS system. Pilots should also provide reports on FSS to the FAA by calling 888/FLT-SRVC (888/358-7782).

February 7, 2008