Alternate Minimums with a twist

[TXCAP4228]

I think I can break this down into 3 questions. I know what I think the answers are but I'd like to tap into the collective knowledge out there.

SITUATION
The metar at airport I want to use as an alternate is currently below what the TAF says the weather should be. Obviously I would not have to fly an approach at the alternate for at least another hour if I have not departed yet and have filed for 1 hour enroute.

QUESTIONS
Is it still legal to rely on the TAF's forecast for alternate minimums?

When filing for an alternate, to what extent should the current conditions at the alternate be considered?

Would the FAA question my selection of this airport as an alternate?

Thanks for the information.

 

[hyper]

OK, I'll shoot...

QUESTIONS
Is it still legal to rely on the TAF's forecast for alternate minimums?

Yes. Since the alternate requirements are based on the forcasted weather at the ETA. At this point, you are still forecasting, correct?

When filing for an alternate, to what extent should the current conditions at the alternate be considered?

Common sense dictates that you should consider the current conditions AND THE TREND if they lie within a reasonable time period of your ETA. Especially if they contradict the forecast. However, legally the current conditions may only be considered if your ETA to your alt. is less than 1 hr out.


Would the FAA question my selection of this airport as an alternate?

Possibly. Remember that your decision must be based on "all available information". Even if you are within the confines of the regulations, it is possible to violate the all-encompassing 91.103 rule. BTW, you never mentioned the comparison of the METAR and TAF to your requirements. I am assuming that your are insinuating weather below alt. mins with the METAR.

 

[TXCAP4228]

Clarification

Hyper, thanks for the response. Yes, in my example, the current METAR would be BELOW the alternate minimums but the TAF (for one hour in the future) would be OK.

 

[hyper]

Anytime TX,

Fly safe!