Definition of Hazardous Inflight Weather Advisory Service (HIWAS)
Hazardous Inflight Weather Advisory Service (HIWAS) is a vital en route Flight Service Station (FSS) that constantly updates the flight crew on dangerous weather conditions within the range of 150 nautical miles from specific VORs. This service is operational only within the contiguous 48 states of the United States.
HIWAS provides instrumental data related to hazardous weather such as severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, hailstorms, heavy precipitation, and icing conditions that can potentially endanger air traffic. The information is obtained through automated means and relayed to the flight crew to facilitate critical decisions while en route to their destination.
The HIWAS system also provides a coordination facility for Air Route Traffic Control Centers (ARTCCs) to monitor and take measures to mitigate adverse weather conditions that might pose a threat to the safe flow of air traffic.
In conclusion, HIWAS plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety of air travel by supplying real-time updates about hazardous weather, enabling the pilot to make informed decisions and take necessary precautions to avoid any potential danger.
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