The Meteorological Service Singapore (MSS), in collaboration with the WMO, conducted the first run of the Training Course on Aeronautical Meteorology for National Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHSs) of the Southwest Pacific Island States and Territories in Singapore on 27 – 31 May 2019. The training course was conducted in support of the WMO long-term goal of closing the capacity gap on essential service delivery in developing countries. Aviation weather services is the third highest priority area for Regional Association (RA) V based on a regional survey conducted in 2018.
The training course was attended by 13 meteorological professionals from 11 countries across the Southwest Pacific. Over the course of five days, trainers from the MSS and Bureau of Meteorology (BOM), Australia shared on the generation of operational meteorological data, meteorological sensors in support of aviation operations and the implementation of WMO competency framework and quality management system. They were also updated on the developments in international aeronautical meteorology. To apprise them on WMO’s role and function in aeronautical meteorology, a special session was arranged with the WMO Aeronautical Meteorology Division via web conference.
Participants also visited the Meteorological Station at the Seletar Airport and Central Forecast Office where they learnt about the operations of MSS, and its supporting infrastructure and specialised systems.
In her opening remarks, Ms Wong Chin Ling, Director-General of MSS, highlighted the evolving role of the aeronautical meteorological service provider in the face of the transformation of global air navigation system. Noting the importance of continuing education and training for aeronautical meteorological personnel, Ms Wong reaffirmed MSS’ commitment to support WMO’s capability development programmes for the Region. The training course will be conducted on regular basis, and future runs will take into account participants’ priority needs and global emerging trends.
