Military Airport
PPR AvailableThis is a Royal Air Force or Ministry of Defence aerodrome. Civil access may be available with Prior Permission Required (PPR).
Access Notes:
Many RAF stations accept civil PPR; consult UK AIP AD 2 for specific procedures
Current Weather
Raw METAR
Clouds - Visual Profile
Weather Briefing
IFRRAF Lakenheath is currently reporting instrument flight rules (IFR) conditions with overcast skies at 700 feet and 10 miles or greater visibility.
Wind Analysis
Winds are from the northeast (40°) at 5 knots. Runway 05/23 is favored with a 5-knot headwind and 1-knot crosswind component.
Visibility & Ceiling
Visibility is unrestricted. The ceiling is 700 feet AGL (overcast). Only precision approaches may be usable depending on minimums.
Temperature & Moisture
Temperature is 6°C (43°F) with a dewpoint of 4°C. The temperature-dewpoint spread is very narrow, indicating saturated or near-saturated air. Fog formation or low cloud development is likely.
Forecast Outlook
The TAF forecast covers the next 30 hours. The forecast shows a transition between VFR and IFR conditions. Pilots should monitor the forecast closely and have an alternate airport plan. Expected weather includes: Mist. Temporary VFR conditions are forecast between 05:00Z and 08:00Z. Temporary LIFR conditions are forecast with Mist between 04:00Z and 08:00Z.
Pilot Recommendations
An instrument rating and IFR flight plan are required. Verify that destination and alternate approach minimums are above current and forecast conditions. The narrow temperature-dewpoint spread creates risk of fog formation, particularly during evening and early morning hours. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
✈️ 05/23
Active: 05
|
8,998 ft | 150 ft | PEM | 56° |
↑ 4.9 kt
•
↔ 0.9 kt
10° angle
|
Weather Statistics - EGUL
10,110 observations | Sep 2025 - Apr 2026Flight Rules Distribution
RAF Lakenheath is frequently affected by reduced visibility conditions, with VFR weather only 47.8% of the time and IFR/LIFR conditions occurring in 21.1% of observations. Prevailing winds are from the S averaging 9.7 knots. Temperature extremes range from -8°C to 28°C, reflecting significant seasonal variation. The best months for VFR flying are April, September, November.
Wind Analysis
Temperature Range
Visibility
Best Months for VFR
Runway Wind Analysis
Statistics computed from 10,110 METAR observations (Sep 2025 - Apr 2026). Data sourced from official aviation weather services. Updated daily.
RAF Lakenheath - Airport Information
Airport Details
Location
Runway Information
Flight Planning Tools
Nearby Airports
About RAF Lakenheath
RAF Lakenheath is a military facility. Civilian access may be restricted or require Prior Permission (PPR). Pilots should consult the GB AIP for current access procedures and restrictions.
Overview
RAF Lakenheath is a medium airport located in Suffolk, England, serving primarily as a United States Air Force base. Situated near Brandon at 32 ft mean sea level, the airport provides critical strategic aviation infrastructure in the eastern United Kingdom. The single runway 05/23 extends 8,998 feet and is constructed with a pavement (PEM) surface.
Flying Conditions
Weather conditions at RAF Lakenheath demonstrate consistent VFR operations, with 51% of observations reporting visual flight rules. The airport experiences mild temperature variations, ranging from -8°C to 28°C, with an average of 9.1°C. Wind patterns are predominantly southerly at 180 degrees, averaging 9.9 knots with occasional gusts up to 30 knots, and calm conditions occurring 7.3% of the time.
Notable Features
The airport's geographic location in Suffolk provides relatively flat terrain typical of eastern England. With an elevation of just 32 ft MSL, pilots can expect minimal terrain-related challenges during approach and departure. The runway's orientation (05/23) and favorable wind conditions, with a 100% wind alignment and average crosswind of only 6.2 knots, contribute to predictable operational environments.
Approach Considerations
Seasonal flying is most favorable during September, October, and November, which demonstrate the most consistent VFR conditions. Visibility averages 10 statute miles, with minimal instances of reduced visibility (fog appears in only 1.6% of observations). Pilots should anticipate primarily southerly winds and prepare for mild crosswind conditions when operating on runway 05/23.
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 EGUL
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.