Knowing how to read and understand NOTAMS will keep you out of trouble. Here's what you need to know...

1) NOTAM (D)

Usually not included in a weather briefing unless specifically requested, NOTAM (D) outlines all local and distant (D) NOTAMs for all navigational facilities, public use airports, seaports, and heliports in the U.S. Chart supplement. For example, information regarding runway closures or obstructions can be found in this NOTAM.

2) FDC NOTAM

FDC, or Flight Data Center NOTAMs outline changes to instrument approach procedures and airways within the U.S. The next time you're flying IFR, you should be checking them before you go.

3) Pointer NOTAM

A pointer NOTAM, literally points out another NOTAM. NOTAMs listed as a pointer NOTAM highlights crucial information that shouldn't be looked passed.

4) SAA NOTAMs

Special Activity Airspace NOTAMs are issued when the airspace is active outside its normally published times and when required by the published schedule.

5) (U) NOTAMs

A subpart of NOTAM (D), (U) NOTAMs are NOTAMs that come from an outside source and which have not yet been verified by management personnel.

6) (O) NOTAMs

A subpart of NOTAM (D), (O) NOTAMs are information that doesn't fit NOTAM criteria but may be beneficial information for pilots.

7) Military NOTAMs

NOTAMs pertinent to the U.S. military navigational aids and airports located within the national airspace system.

Want to learn how to read every NOTAM top to bottom? Check out our VFR charts and publications course here.