What is the primary function of the Hazardous Inflight Weather Advisory Service (HIWAS)?

The primary function of the Hazardous Inflight Weather Advisory Service (HIWAS) is to provide a continuous broadcast of inflight weather advisories. HIWAS delivers timely information about hazardous weather conditions, such as severe thunderstorms, turbulence, icing, and other impactful weather phenomena that may affect flight safety. This service is vital for pilots in-flight, as it allows them to make informed decisions regarding their flight paths and avoid dangerous weather conditions without having to rely solely on air traffic control communications.

This continuous broadcast ensures that pilots can receive uninterrupted updates on vital weather information, enhancing situational awareness and overall flight safety. The other functions listed, such as traffic advisories, routine notifications, and flight plan updates, do not fall under the primary responsibilities of HIWAS, which is specifically focused on weather safety information necessary for ongoing flights.