Military Airport
RestrictedThis is a U.S. military installation. Civil aircraft operations are generally prohibited without prior authorization.
Access Notes:
Most military airfields closed to civil traffic; some joint-use exceptions exist
Current Weather
Raw METAR
Weather Briefing
VFRGrand Forks Air Force Base is currently reporting visual flight rules (VFR) conditions with clear skies and 10 SM visibility. Note: This observation is 1 hours old and conditions may have changed.
Wind Analysis
Winds are from the south (170°) at 25 knots with gusts to 31 knots. Runway 17/35 is favored with a 25-knot headwind and 0-knot crosswind component. These are strong winds that may exceed crosswind limits for light aircraft.
Visibility & Ceiling
Visibility is 10 SM. Skies are clear with unlimited ceiling.
Temperature & Moisture
Temperature is 28°C (82°F) with a dewpoint of 20°C, indicating moderate moisture conditions.
Forecast Outlook
The TAF forecast covers the next 27 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: Heavy Thunderstorm RAGR, Light Thunderstorm Rain. Winds are forecast to reach up to 45 knots during the period. Expect variable wind speeds ranging from 9 to 45 knots. Temporary MVFR conditions are forecast between 00:00Z and 02:00Z. Temporary LIFR conditions are forecast with Light Thunderstorm Rain between 14:00Z and 17:00Z.
Pilot Recommendations
Conditions are favorable for visual flight. Gusty conditions may exceed demonstrated crosswind components for many general aviation aircraft. Check your aircraft's limitations. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
✈️ 17/35
Active: 17
|
12,350 ft | 150 ft | ASP | 180° |
↑ 25.0 kt
•
↔ 0.0 kt
0° angle
|
Weather Statistics - KRDR
8,810 observations | Sep 2025 - Jun 2026Flight Rules Distribution
Grand Forks Air Force Base is frequently affected by reduced visibility conditions, with VFR weather only 59.6% of the time and IFR/LIFR conditions occurring in 18.6% of observations. Prevailing winds are from the N averaging 10.9 knots, with gusts recorded up to 40 knots. Temperature extremes range from -29°C to 36°C, reflecting significant seasonal variation. The best months for VFR flying are June, October, May.
Wind Analysis
Temperature Range
Visibility
Best Months for VFR
Runway Wind Analysis
Statistics computed from 8,810 METAR observations (Sep 2025 - Jun 2026). Data sourced from official aviation weather services. Updated daily.
Grand Forks Air Force Base - Airport Information
Airport Details
Location
Runway Information
Flight Planning Tools
Nearby Airports
About Grand Forks Air Force Base
Grand Forks Air Force Base is a military facility. Civilian access may be restricted or require Prior Permission (PPR). Pilots should consult the US AIP for current access procedures and restrictions.
Overview
Grand Forks Air Force Base (KRDR) is a medium-sized military airport located in North Dakota at 913 feet mean sea level. Situated at coordinates 47.961102, -97.401199, the base serves strategic military aviation operations in the northern Great Plains region.
Flying Conditions
Weather conditions at KRDR exhibit significant variability, with Visual Flight Rules (VFR) prevailing 55.7% of the time. Pilots should anticipate potential instrument meteorological conditions, with MVFR conditions occurring 25.3% of observations and IFR/LIFR states combining for nearly 19% of recorded periods. Temperature ranges dramatically from -29°C to 36°C, requiring comprehensive preflight weather assessment.
Notable Features
The airport features a single runway (17/35) with an extensive 12,350-foot asphalt surface, capable of supporting large aircraft operations. Prevailing winds consistently originate from the north (0°), with an average speed of 10.5 knots and occasional gusts reaching 40 knots. Calm wind conditions occur approximately 8.9% of the time.
Approach Considerations
Runway 17/35 demonstrates favorable wind alignment, with wind conditions supporting 100% of approaches. Average crosswind components remain relatively moderate at 5 knots. Visibility typically remains excellent, averaging 9.3 statute miles, with minimal instances of restricted visibility (below 3SM occurring in only 1.6% of observations).
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 KRDR
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.