AWT Evaluations of High-Resolution Upgrades to IFI/GTG

The Aviation Weather Center (AWC), via the Aviation Weather Testbed (AWT), was tasked by the FAA Aviation Weather Research Program (AWRP) to subjectively evaluate the high-resolution Forecast Icing Product (FIP2), Current Icing Product (CIP2), and Graphical Turbulence Guidance (GTG4). In November 2023, the AWT began displaying FIP2 on the AWT website. This version of FIP2 utilized the Rapid Refresh Forecast System (RRFS) as its model base. Severity, Probability and Severity+Supercooled Large Droplets (SLD) over two separate domains were analyzed. FIP2 was displayed over Alaska, where it was compared to the Rapid Refresh (RAP) based Icing Product Alaska-Forecast (IPA-F), and over the CONUS where it was compared to the operational FIP. Results from both assessments will be presented. Further analysis of the FIP2 output was completed during the AWT Spring Experiment, April 2-4, 2024. Participants were tasked to create graphical-AIRMETs (G-AIRMETs) over areas of potential moderate icing, using multiple products as guidance, but focusing on the FIP2. Specifically, the operational FIP and an additional RAP icing algorithm were used to compare to the FIP2. Findings from this experiment, including participant feedback will also be discussed. In the Fall/Winter of 2024, the AWT will evaluate the GTG4 and CIP2 over CONUS. The latter evaluation will include output as previously mentioned from the FIP2 study, and the GTG4 output includes clear-air, mountain-wave and convectively-induced turbulence. Conclusions from these evaluations will be presented, barring any delays in the schedule.

*This research is in response to requirements and funding by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The views expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official policy or position of the FAA.