Flight Service Station (FSS)
A Flight Service Station (FSS) is a NAV CANADA ground facility providing advisory services to pilots operating in the vicinity of an aerodrome. FSS provides weather, runway, and traffic information, and may provide remote communications services for FIC.
FSS Services
- Local weather observation and dissemination
- Active runway and surface condition advisories
- Traffic information for aircraft operating in the area
- Radio communication relay between pilots and FIC
- NOTAM information relevant to the local area
- Alerting service coordination with FIC
FSS vs. Control Tower
An FSS provides advisory services — it does not issue clearances or provide separation. Pilots at FSS-served aerodromes are responsible for their own separation from other traffic. A control tower at a controlled airport issues clearances and provides separation. The CFS clearly identifies whether an aerodrome has FSS, tower, or no ground service.
Related Terms
See also: Flight Information Centre, CARS, Mandatory Frequency.