(L - R) -- WFO Memphis Forecaster James Branda, Lead Forecaster Phil Baker, CWSU Forecaster Stephen Kearney, MIC Doug Boyette and Forecaster Nick Uebelhor (Photo: WFO Memphis)
They were on hand to witness the late evening inbound push of cargo aircraft and watch the cargo sorting operation.
Depending on the day of the week, between 140 & 175 aircraft may arrive between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 1:00 a.m. Cargo from these aircraft is sorted, re-loaded and turned around for the outbound push between 3:00 and 5:00 a.m.
"During our tour, we were reminded that the forecast office and service unit both play a critical role in the efficient operation of the Memphis International Airport and FedEx," said Phil Baker, lead forecaster at the Memphis office.
"Through our Terminal Aerodrome Forecasts and ARTCC Traffic Management Unit support, we have a daily opportunity to make a positive impact on FedEx and the economy."
Memphis International Airport ranked a close second to Hong Kong as the busiest cargo airport in the world last year. Between January and July 2012, more than 5 billion pounds of cargo moved through Memphis -- and FedEx accounted 99 percent of it.
Operating on razor thin time margins, FedEx plays a major role in the national and world economy and weather is the biggest factor impacting operational efficiency. Conducting 300 to 350 flight operations within hours is especially challenging during severe weather.
Even during "quiet" weather, the difference between a six and eight knot wind can have a costly impact in fuel costs, while adding to aircraft taxi time.
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