NTSB Issues Recommendation A-19-006 to FAA Regarding Weather Observer Procedures

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has issued Recurrent Safety Recommendation A-19-006, identified by reference number DCA17FA076, addressed directly to the Federal Aviation Administration. This recommendation urges the agency to revise Order JO 7900.5D, Surface Weather Observing, specifically Change 1. The directive calls for the establishment of clear sign-off procedures and defined backup augmentation responsibilities. These measures are intended to cover all types of weather-observing personnel who find themselves unable to perform their prescribed duties from their normal duty station during normal duty hours. The NSB emphasizes the need for standardized protocols to ensure operational continuity and safety when staff cannot fulfill their roles at their primary locations.