AFIS — Aerodrome Flight Information Service

An Aerodrome Flight Information Service (AFIS) provides information to assist pilots operating at certain non-controlled aerodromes.

An AFIS may provide information such as:

• runway-in-use;
• surface wind and weather conditions;
• QNH;
• significant traffic information; and
• other relevant aerodrome information, such as bird hazards or operational conditions.

Paraparaumu is an example of a New Zealand aerodrome with an AFIS.

AFIS is Not Air Traffic Control

An AFIS provides information — not control.

The AFIS operator:

• does not issue ATC clearances or instructions;
• does not provide separation between aircraft;
• provides pilots with relevant traffic and aerodrome information; and
• may relay an ATC clearance when required.

The pilot remains responsible for deciding what action to take and for maintaining separation from other traffic.

An aerodrome with an AFIS should therefore generally be treated as a non-controlled aerodrome with an information service available.

AFIS and UNICOM

An AFIS should not be confused with a UNICOM or base radio station.