Current Weather
Raw METAR
Clouds - Visual Profile
Weather Briefing
IFRPalmdale Regional Airport / USAF Plant 42 Airport is currently reporting instrument flight rules (IFR) conditions with overcast skies at 4,300 feet and 1.84 km visibility.
Wind Analysis
Winds are from the southwest (230°) at 13 knots with gusts to 19 knots. Runway 22 is favored with a 13-knot headwind and 2-knot crosswind component (gusting to 3 knots crosswind).
Visibility & Ceiling
Visibility is reduced to 1.84 km. IFR conditions prevail and an instrument clearance is required for operations in controlled airspace. The ceiling is 4300 feet AGL (overcast), well above standard VFR minimums.
Temperature & Moisture
Temperature is 16°C (61°F) with a dewpoint of 4°C, indicating relatively dry conditions.
Forecast Outlook
The TAF forecast covers the next 24 hours. Conditions are expected to remain VFR throughout the forecast period. Expected weather includes: Light Showers Rain. Winds are forecast to reach up to 22 knots during the period.
Pilot Recommendations
An instrument rating and IFR flight plan are required. Verify that destination and alternate approach minimums are above current and forecast conditions.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
✈️ 04/22
Active: 22
|
12,001 ft | 150 ft | CON | 51° |
↑ 12.8 kt
•
↔ 2.3 kt
10° angle
|
| 07/25 | 12,002 ft | 150 ft | CON | 86° |
↓ 10.5 kt
•
↔ 7.6 kt
144° angle
|
| 072/252 | 6,000 ft | 75 ft | CONC-E | 0° |
↓ 8.4 kt
•
↔ 10.0 kt
130° angle
|
Weather Statistics - KPMD
5,310 observations | Sep 2025 - Apr 2026Flight Rules Distribution
Palmdale Regional Airport / USAF Plant 42 Airport enjoys predominantly VFR conditions, with visual flight rules prevailing 92.3% of the time. Prevailing winds are from the SW averaging 8.3 knots, with gusts recorded up to 34 knots. Calm conditions occur 18% of the time. Temperature extremes range from -3°C to 35°C, reflecting significant seasonal variation. The best months for VFR flying are March, April, September.
Wind Analysis
Temperature Range
Visibility
Best Months for VFR
Runway Wind Analysis
Statistics computed from 5,310 METAR observations (Sep 2025 - Apr 2026). Data sourced from official aviation weather services. Updated daily.
Palmdale Regional Airport / USAF Plant 42 Airport - Airport Information
Airport Details
Location
Runway Information
Flight Planning Tools
Nearby Airports
About Palmdale Regional Airport / USAF Plant 42 Airport
Overview
Palmdale Regional Airport, co-located with USAF Plant 42, is a medium-sized airport situated in the high desert region of Southern California. The airport serves both military and civilian aviation operations, with substantial runway infrastructure supporting aerospace and aviation activities. Located at an elevation of 2,543 feet MSL, the airport provides strategic aerospace capabilities in the Antelope Valley region.
Flying Conditions
Weather conditions at KPMD are predominantly VFR, with 89.4% of observations reporting visual flight rules. Southwest winds at an average of 7.7 knots characterize the airport's wind patterns, with temperatures ranging from -3°C to 35°C. September, October, and December offer the most consistent VFR conditions, while temperature and wind variations should be carefully considered during flight planning.
Notable Features
The airport features three substantial runways, with two 12,000+ foot concrete runways oriented in similar directions. Its high desert location suggests potential for thermal variations and potential turbulence, particularly during temperature transitions. The airport's elevation and geographic positioning may introduce unique wind dynamics that pilots should anticipate during approach and departure.
Approach Considerations
All three runways demonstrate 100% favorable wind alignments, with minimal average crosswind components ranging between 3.8-4.1 knots. Runway 04/22 and 07/25 provide extensive landing surfaces exceeding 12,000 feet, offering significant operational flexibility. Pilots should anticipate Southwest wind influences and prepare for potential temperature-related performance considerations given the airport's elevation and desert environment.
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 KPMD
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.