A new train-the-trainer framework is not only building local expertise but ensuring that critical aviation weather knowledge is being sustained for the future.  

Fourteen aviation meteorological observers (AMOs)in Solomon Islands recently completed a 6-month intensive training course to enhance the country’s weather observing infrastructure, deliver sustainable aviation weather services training and support aviation communications and systems. 

The observers successfully completed three online modules on Aviation Meteorology Fundamentals, Weather Observing Principles and Meteorological Aerodrome Report and Special Weather Report coding. Each module required up to 40 hours of study, with five days of practical assessments in the capital, Honiara.  

The training covered all core areas of aviation meteorological observing including the atmosphere, air temperature and pressure, atmospheric stability, wind, thunderstorms, cloud identification, weather observations, visibility, aerological diagrams, Meteorological Aerodrome Reports (METAR), Special Weather Reports (SPECI) message coding and Terminal Area Forecasts (TAFs). 

The AMOs are now better equipped to deliver accurate and timely aviation weather services that improve flight safety and create lasting aviation capability for Solomon Islands, where air travel is a vital link for over 900 islands and remote communities. 

The training was delivered by the Australian Bureau of Meteorology and supported by the Australia-Pacific Partnerships for Aviation (P4A).  

Bureau trainer, Phil Jefferson worked closely with Solomon Islands Meteorology Service (SIMS) to deliver the AMO training. During this period, the Bureau established a new competency framework, created online training materials, and led practical training and assessments. A “train-the-trainer” approach also now equips SIMS managers to onboard new observers and provide refresher training for existing staff.