Listen "Episode 107: The Weather Risk No One's Talking About in Modern Aviation with Don Berchoff"
Episode Synopsis
In Episode 107 of the Aviation Insurance Podcast, host Tim Bonnell Jr. welcomes Don Berchoff, CEO of TruWeather Solutions, to explore how outdated weather infrastructure and low-altitude forecasting gaps are becoming critical risks in modern aviation, especially with the rise of drones, AAM, and pilotless operations. From Air Force command to launching a private weather tech company, Don shares an insider's perspective on how better weather data could reduce cancellations, increase flight time, and save lives and money. ⏱️ Timestamps: 00:01 – Welcome & Guest Intro: Don Berchoff, CEO of TruWeather 01:17 – Air Force Meteorology to Private Innovation 02:51 – How Weather Shaped Don's Risk Management Philosophy 05:20 – Why Today's Weather Data Isn't Enough for AAM & Drones 08:25 – Flying Blind: The Cost of Weather Uncertainty 10:12 – Cutting Military Weather Delays in Half — Without New Data 13:29 – Weather's Role in Aircraft & Drone Incidents 16:11 – The Local Weather Problem: Why METAR Isn't Enough 17:30 – New ASTM Standards & Affordable Sensor Tech 19:28 – A New Model: Infrastructure-as-a-Service for Aviation Weather 22:42 – Is Climate Change Driving Insurance Losses? 24:12 – Hailstorms, Data Gaps, and High-Stakes Decision Making 27:10 – Closing Thoughts: Clean Slate Thinking in Aviation Weather Disclaimer:
🎙️ This episode is a must-listen for aviators, drone operators, risk managers, and insurers who want to stay ahead of aviation's evolving climate challenges.
More episodes of the podcast Aviation Insurance Podcast
Aviation Insurance Podcast 113: Augmented Intelligence Is Here: How Brokers Can Lead the Change
15/09/2025
Aviation Insurance Podcast #112: Navigating Risk, Mentorship, and the Aviation Insurance Cycle
04/09/2025
Aviation Insurance Podcast #111: AI Has Entered the Hangar - The Tech Disrupting Aviation Insurance
08/08/2025
ZARZA We are Zarza, the prestigious firm behind major projects in information technology.