Story ID: 
Aviation Weather Center Website Getting New Look
By: Kerry Lynch
Caption: AWC's updated website improves user experience
Word Count: 204
The Aviation Weather Center (AWC) is giving its website a new look with enhanced usability. Set to formally roll out on September 12, users can now view the site in beta mode. However, Jennifer Stroozas, a warning coordination meteorologist for the AWC at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, told NBAA that the beta site is only in experimental form and should not be used for flight-planning purposes.
Stroozas noted the site was designed for improved mobile use. “Whether you’re on a mobile phone, a tablet, or a desktop computer, the site is expandable and optimized for that device,” she told NBAA. “We’ve also streamlined the menus to make navigation simpler and more intuitive.”
Some of the changes improve access to information surrounding weather conditions, pilot reports, and radar and satellite observations, along with Airmet (airman’s meteorological information) and Sigmet (significant meteorological hazard) alerts.
The revamped site includes airplane and helicopter icons. A click on the helicopter icon will provide lower-altitude information. The revamped site combines the graphic forecast for aviation (GFA) and helicopter emergency management services product into a single GFA interface.
In addition, AWS is adding more Canadian core airports.