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
VFRRAF Fairford is currently reporting visual flight rules (VFR) conditions with overcast skies at 6,500 feet and 10 miles or greater visibility.
Wind Analysis
Winds are from the west-southwest (250°) at 9 knots. Runway 27 is favored with a 8-knot headwind and 3-knot crosswind component.
Visibility & Ceiling
Visibility is unrestricted. The ceiling is 6500 feet AGL (overcast), well above standard VFR minimums.
Temperature & Moisture
Temperature is 10°C (50°F) with a dewpoint of 8°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. Conditions are expected to fluctuate between VFR and MVFR. VFR pilots should be prepared for deteriorating conditions. Expected weather includes: Light Showers Rain.
Pilot Recommendations
Conditions are favorable for visual flight. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
✈️ 09/27
Active: 27
|
9,994 ft | 200 ft | ASP | 88° |
↑ 8.5 kt
•
↔ 3.1 kt
20° angle
|
Weather Statistics - EGVA
7,629 observations | Sep 2025 - Jun 2026Flight Rules Distribution
RAF Fairford is frequently affected by reduced visibility conditions, with VFR weather only 48.7% of the time and IFR/LIFR conditions occurring in 20.6% of observations. Prevailing winds are from the SW averaging 9.2 knots. Temperature extremes range from -6°C to 33°C, reflecting significant seasonal variation. The best months for VFR flying are April, May, September.
Wind Analysis
Temperature Range
Visibility
Best Months for VFR
Runway Wind Analysis
Statistics computed from 7,629 METAR observations (Sep 2025 - Jun 2026). Data sourced from official aviation weather services. Updated daily.
RAF Fairford - Airport Information
Airport Details
Location
Runway Information
Flight Planning Tools
Nearby Airports
About RAF Fairford
RAF Fairford 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 Fairford is a medium-sized airport located in Gloucestershire, United Kingdom, situated at 286 feet above mean sea level. The airport serves primarily military aviation needs, with a substantial 9,994-foot asphalt runway capable of handling large aircraft. Its strategic location in southwestern England provides important infrastructure for military and potential civilian operations.
Flying Conditions
Weather conditions at RAF Fairford demonstrate significant variability, with Visual Flight Rules (VFR) conditions prevailing 45.3% of the time. Pilots can expect predominantly southwestern winds averaging 9.2 knots, with temperatures ranging from -6°C to 24°C and an average of 10 statute miles visibility. September, October, and November represent the most favorable months for VFR flying, offering the most consistent meteorological conditions.
Notable Features
The airport's single runway (09/27) is oriented to take maximum advantage of prevailing southwestern winds, which align favorably 100% of the time. Crosswinds average a manageable 5.7 knots, presenting minimal challenges for most aircraft operations. The terrain surrounding Fairford is characteristic of the Gloucestershire region, with relatively flat landscapes that provide predictable approach and departure environments.
Approach Considerations
Runway 09/27 offers excellent wind alignment, with the prevailing southwestern winds providing optimal approach conditions. Pilots should anticipate calm conditions approximately 12% of the time and be prepared for potential wind variations up to 30 knots. The extensive 9,994-foot runway provides substantial landing and takeoff margin for a wide range of aircraft types.
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 EGVA
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.