What is the primary use of NOTAMs in aviation?

NOTAMs, or Notice to Airmen, are critical in aviation as they serve to provide timely and essential information regarding aeronautical facilities, hazards, and changes that could affect flight operations. These notices may cover a range of topics, including runway closures, changes in navigational aids, airspace restrictions, and other critical infrastructure updates that pilots and flight crews need to be aware of for safe operation.

While reporting current weather phenomena is important, it typically falls under other specific weather reporting services rather than NOTAMs. Departure times are generally communicated through air traffic control and flight operations rather than NOTAMs. Similarly, passenger regulations are related to airline policies and procedures, not the aeronautical safety information that NOTAMs deliver. The primary utility of NOTAMs is to ensure that pilots receive updates on necessary operational details that could affect the safety and efficiency of their flights.