FAA issues notam guidance

Although the AC was issued last month, it was only publicized by the FAA recently.

AC No. 150/5200-28G explains that notams are used to provide “timely information on unanticipated or temporary changes to components of, or hazards in, the National Airspace System (NAS). Component changes may pertain to infrastructure, facilities, services, procedures, or hazards in the NAS.” Notams also provide “information that becomes available too late to publicize in the associated aeronautical charts and related publications.”

New language on the use and overall process of PERM notams, “interim NOTAMS associated with the publishing of permanent airport related information,” is included in the AC, as is a list of information that should not be included in notams.

The AC also “provides guidance on using the NOTAM system for airport condition reporting and procedures used to describe, format, and disseminate information on unanticipated or temporary changes to components of, or hazards in, the National Airspace System (NAS). The NOTAM system is not intended to be used to advertise data already published or charted.”

“This guidance is welcome and is an example of the collaborative work FAA and industry are doing to modernize the notam system, improving notam content and reducing unnecessary information,” said Jim McClay, AOPA’s director of airspace, air traffic, and security.