Current Weather
Raw METAR
Weather Briefing
VFRRalph Wien Memorial Airport is currently reporting visual flight rules (VFR) conditions with clear skies and 10 SM visibility.
Wind Analysis
Winds are from the west-northwest (290°) at 12 knots. Runway 27 is favored with a 11-knot headwind and 4-knot crosswind component.
Visibility & Ceiling
Visibility is 10 SM. Skies are clear with unlimited ceiling.
Temperature & Moisture
Temperature is 12°C (54°F) with a dewpoint of 7°C, indicating moderate moisture conditions.
Forecast Outlook
The TAF forecast covers the next 24 hours. Conditions are expected to remain VFR throughout the forecast period.
Pilot Recommendations
Conditions are favorable for visual flight.
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
|
5,900 ft | 150 ft | ASPH-G | 102° |
↑ 11.3 kt
•
↔ 4.1 kt
20° angle
|
| 17/35 | 3,800 ft | 90 ft | GVL | 194° |
↓ 1.3 kt
•
↔ 11.9 kt
96° angle
|
Weather Statistics - PAOT
10,874 observations | Sep 2025 - Jun 2026Flight Rules Distribution
Ralph Wien Memorial Airport typically experiences VFR conditions 69.7% of the time, though instrument-rated pilots will find IFR weather present approximately 11.2% of observations. Prevailing winds are from the E averaging 12.5 knots, with gusts recorded up to 43 knots. Temperature extremes range from -36°C to 16°C, reflecting significant seasonal variation. Low visibility conditions (below 3 SM) occur in 6% of weather observations. The best months for VFR flying are September, January, November.
Wind Analysis
Temperature Range
Visibility
Best Months for VFR
Runway Wind Analysis
Statistics computed from 10,874 METAR observations (Sep 2025 - Jun 2026). Data sourced from official aviation weather services. Updated daily.
Ralph Wien Memorial Airport - Airport Information
Airport Details
Location
Runway Information
Flight Planning Tools
About Ralph Wien Memorial Airport
Overview
Ralph Wien Memorial Airport serves the northwest Alaska community of Kotzebue, strategically located near the Chukchi Sea. As a medium airport at 14 feet mean sea level, it provides critical transportation infrastructure for this remote region, supporting both commercial and general aviation operations.
Flying Conditions
Weather at PAOT is characterized by predominantly visual flight rule (VFR) conditions, with 71.5% of observations supporting VFR flight. Winter temperatures average -10.5°C, ranging from -33°C to 10°C, with consistent easterly winds averaging 12.6 knots and occasionally reaching 38 knots. Visibility is generally good at 8.9 statute miles, though pilots should anticipate potential restrictions during 4.3% of observations with visibility below 3 statute miles.
Notable Features
The airport features two runways: a 5,900-foot asphalt runway (09/27) and a 3,800-foot gravel runway (17/35). Both runways demonstrate 100% favorable wind alignment, with modest average crosswind components of 6.4 knots for 09/27 and 8.9 knots for 17/35. The airport's low elevation and coastal location contribute to its unique operational environment in northwestern Alaska.
Approach Considerations
Pilots can expect most favorable approach conditions during September, January, and November, which statistically offer the best VFR weather. The prevailing easterly winds at 90 degrees suggest runway 09/27 will typically provide the most comfortable wind conditions. With only 5% calm wind observations, pilots should be prepared for consistent wind interactions during landing and takeoff.
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 PAOT
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.