AIS Products and Services: AIP, NOTAM, AIC, and AIRAC Cycle

010-08-04Pablo Asensio Martínez2026-03-271 min

AIP (Aeronautical Information Publication)

Information of lasting character essential to air navigation.

  • Structure:
    • GEN (General): Regulations, differences from ICAO, charges, signals. (State differences go here).
    • ENR (En-route): Airspace, ATS routes, FIR/UIR/TMA limits.
    • AD (Aerodromes): Detailed information on aerodromes/heliports.
  • AIP Amendments: Permanent changes.
  • AIP Supplements (SUP): Temporary changes of long duration (3 months or longer) or information of short duration containing extensive text and/or graphics. (Yellow pages).

NOTAM (Notice to Air Missions)

Notice containing information concerning the establishment, condition, or change in any aeronautical facility, service, procedure, or hazard, the timely knowledge of which is essential.

  • Distributed by Telecommunication (AFS).
  • Validity: Temporary of short duration (less than 3 months).
  • Mandatory Probable Cause (Examples):
    • Closing/opening of runways or aerodromes.
    • Changes in visual aids or lights.
    • Epidemics.
    • Space weather.
  • NOTAM shall NOT be issued for: Routine maintenance work on aprons not affecting safety, unserviceable signs, etc.
  • PIB (Pre-flight Information Bulletin): A summary of current NOTAMs prepared before the flight.

AIC (Aeronautical Information Circular)

Information of explanatory, advisory, or administrative nature that does not qualify for AIP or NOTAM.

  • Recommended color coding:
    • White: Administrative.
    • Yellow: ATC.
    • Pink: Safety.
    • Mauve: Danger Area maps.
    • Green: Maps/Charts.

AIRAC (Aeronautical Information Regulation And Control)

System to regulate significant changes.

  • Changes become effective on predetermined dates (28-day cycle).
  • Information must be distributed at least 42 days in advance (or 56 for major changes).