Weather radar information is one of the most valuable tools available to
pilots to ensure safe, efficient, and comfortable flight operations.
Onboard weather radar allows pilots to tactically navigate near and
around severe weather with confidence. And with the advent of datalink
radar data systems, pilots of all types of aircraft and skill levels can
easily access similar vital information. Yet pilots must understand how
to use these technologies and their potential flaws to avoid
inadvertently getting too close to or penetrating severe weather, which
could obviously have detrimental outcomes.
Author Dr. David Ison takes you through the fundamental knowledge and
skills necessary to operate both airborne and datalink weather radar.
With a focus on simplicity and real-world application, Dr. Ison
introduces and explains the essential concepts of radar operation and
interpretation. Beginning with radar and severe weather theory, he
covers attributes of inclement weather phenomena, how they are detected,
and how pilots can evaluate these conditions through available radar
sources. Airborne weather radar essentials such as attenuation, tilt
management, contouring, and gain are explained with real-world examples.
The text outlines advanced features including auto-tilt, turbulence
detection, wind shear warning systems, and terrain mapping and provides
operational strategies for all phases of flight. The detailed sections
on datalink radar information explain how the system works, how to use
available data, and common pitfalls. Dr. Ison describes the advantages
and disadvantages of both airborne and datalink radar systems to help
pilots understand the best and most effective use of each.
Each chapter provides case examples, concept questions to test your
understanding, and scenarios to assess your judgment and evaluation
skills. Regardless of your current skill level--and whether you are just
considering adding datalink radar to your toolkit or have been flying
with airborne radar for years--this book can serve as a fundamental
reference on using radar data in flight.
