What is the purpose of ASOS/AWOS in RAWS?

• A. To provide automated weather observations for use by controllers, pilots, and RAWS systems.
• B. To actively report on-pavement condition.
• C. To generate NOTAMs for field closures.
• D. To replace METAR/TAF entirely.

Answer: (A)

ASOS and AWOS are automated weather observing systems that continuously collect and report surface weather data. This information is tailored for aviation use, so it includes wind speed and direction, visibility, sky condition and cloud bases, temperature and dew point, altimeter setting, and present weather phenomena. Controllers rely on these real-time observations to manage takeoffs, landings, and traffic flow, while pilots use the data for flight planning and in-flight decision-making. RAWS integrates these automated observations to maintain an up-to-date weather picture at the airfield, supporting weather-aware displays and hazard monitoring. This function is distinct from pavement condition reporting or NOTAM generation, and it does not replace METAR/TAF; instead, ASOS/AWOS provide the weather observations that feed METARs/TAFs and keep field weather information current.