PIREP
Pilot Report
Last updated: April 20, 2026 · Maintained by Aviatr Editorial Team
What is PIREP?
A PIREP (Pilot Report) is a real-time weather observation transmitted by a pilot in flight to ATC or a flight information service, describing actual conditions encountered — icing, turbulence, cloud tops, wind shear, or visibility — that supplement or correct forecast data. PIREPs are shared among other pilots through ATIS, VOLMET, and pre-flight briefing systems.
How is PIREP used?
Pilots are encouraged to file PIREPs whenever they encounter conditions that differ from the forecast — light icing at flight level 180, severe turbulence over a mountain range, cloud tops 1,000 feet higher than forecast. ATC receives the PIREP, notes the aircraft position, and relays the report to other traffic and meteorological offices. Urgent PIREPs (classified UUA) describe immediate hazards such as severe icing, funnel clouds, or hail that may affect other aircraft within minutes. Forecast accuracy and situational safety both improve when pilots file consistently; the system relies on voluntary contribution from the whole pilot community. General aviation pilots often underuse PIREPs, believing their observation is trivial, but even a simple 'smooth ride, tops FL080' provides valuable data for dispatch and forecasting. EASA CPL and ATPL training syllabi include PIREP submission procedures as part of Operational Procedures.