RAP’s Oceanic Weather Program focuses applied research and product development on the international need for better forecasts of weather-related aviation hazards in data-sparse oceanic regions. The program coordinates the development of weather products that outline flight hazards associated with convection, clear-air turbulence and volcanic ash, as well as improved wind information to aid nowcasting, navigation and air traffic control. In coming years, planned work will address additional hazards such as icing and convectively-induced turbulence.The program works with airline and air communications industry to develop and test practical methods to transfer weather data products to the cockpit. These products and methods seek to improve the safety of oceanic air travel and the efficiency of air traffic routing and flow management. While the program is sponsored by the FAA Aviation Weather Research Program, its domain extends across the oceans and air routes around the globe.

Research Lead: Cathy Kessinger