Cross-Country Flight Planning

Time-critical aeronautical information which is of either a temporary nature or not sufficiently known in advance to permit publication on aeronautical charts or in other operational publications receives immediate dissemination via the National NOTAM System. 

NOTAM (D) — “Distant” or “Domestic”

• What it covers: Time-sensitive information relating to navigational aids, runways, taxiways, lighting systems, airport conditions, obstructions, or services.

• Where to find them: These are published in the NOTAM system and often accessible via a flight service station, ForeFlight, or FAA NOTAM search.

• Example: A runway closure, a taxiway light outage, or a crane near the airport.

• D for Domestic, Details, or Daily changes.

FDC NOTAM — “Flight Data Center”

• What it covers: Regulatory or procedural changes issued by the Flight Data Center. These can impact instrument procedures, temporary flight restrictions (TFRs), amendments to charts, or emergency airspace changes.

• Where to find them: These are not tied to a single airport and affect broader airspace or procedures.

• Example: A TFR for presidential movement, a revised instrument approach procedure, or a change in airspace designation.

• FDC = Federal rule changes or Flight Procedure updates.

Pointer NOTAM

• What it covers: A “pointer” NOTAM highlights or references another important NOTAM. It acts like a signpost to ensure you do not miss a critical notice elsewhere in the system.

• Why it matters: Pointer NOTAMs do not create new restrictions, but point to other NOTAMs, often in another category or location that might otherwise be overlooked.

• Example: A pointer NOTAM at KSFB may point to an FDC NOTAM affecting Orlando airspace that would affect your approach.

• Pointer = Points you to another NOTAM

Other NOTAM Types (good to be aware of):

• SAA NOTAM – Special Activity Airspace (active times for MOAs, restricted areas, etc.)

• Military NOTAM – Issued by branches of the U.S. military

• International NOTAM – Concerning flights to or from outside the U.S.

Note: Previously known as Notices to Air Missions but as of February 10, 2025, it was changed back to Notices to Airmen.