Meteorological experts shaping future of aviation weather services
3 February 2010
| More than 100 world experts in aviation meteorology are taking part in the 14th session of the Commission for Aeronautical Meteorology (CAeM) of the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) which began in Hong Kong today (3 February). The session, which continues until next Wednesday (10 February), marks the first time a major international meeting on aeronautical meteorology has been held in Asia. The Secretary-General of WMO, Mr Michel Jarraud; President of the WMO CAeM, Mr Carr McLeod; Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mrs Rita Lau; and Director of the Hong Kong Observatory, Dr Lee Boon-ying; officiated at today's opening ceremony. Mr Jarraud highlighted issues that had significant impact on providing aviation weather services in the 21st century. These included the development of the New Terminal Forecast for the wider terminal area of busy airports, the implementation of a quality management system for aviation weather service and addressing the link between aviation and climate. Mrs Lau commended the Hong Kong Observatory for its dedication to the provision of quality aviation weather services which upheld Hong Kong's position as a leading aviation hub in the region. She emphasised the importance of international meteorological collaboration in securing safe flight operations. Mrs Lau said this international conference helped showcase the sustained efforts the commission had made over the years in fostering collaboration between meteorological authorities through the exchange of information, as well as joint efforts in research and development. Dr Lee stressed the importance of accurate weather forecasts and warnings to ensure safety in air traffic in the increasingly crowded skies. He said the key to achieving a higher standard of service was in the continuous enhancement of aviation weather services through putting the latest scientific knowledge into application and through active engagement with aviation users and stakeholders. CAeM is a technical commission of WMO looking after the application of meteorology to aviation with the objective of providing meteorological support to meet the requirements of aviation for safe, economic and efficient air navigation. The commission is held every four years to discuss the progress and future development in the provision of aviation weather services. |
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