What does the Aerodrome Forecast (TAF) describe?

The Aerodrome Forecast, commonly referred to as a Terminal Aerodrome Forecast (TAF), provides a weather forecast for a specific period at an airport or aerodrome. It is designed to give pilots and other aviation personnel information about expected weather conditions at the airport, typically covering a period of 24 to 30 hours, with forecasts for visibility, wind, precipitation, and significant weather changes.

This type of forecast is essential for flight planning and operations, as it offers anticipated weather that could affect aircraft during landing, takeoff, and throughout the time spent near the airport. The specificity of the TAF allows pilots to make informed decisions about flight safety based on up-to-date weather conditions at their departure and arrival points.

The other options do not align with the function of TAF; weather conditions at high altitudes would pertain to different types of forecasts that focus on altitude and en-route conditions. Current weather observations are snapshots of existing conditions rather than predictions. Long-term weather predictions extend beyond the timeframe covered by TAF, which focuses strictly on a short-term forecast important for immediate aviation operations.