Episode 107: The Weather Risk No One's Talking About in Modern Aviation with Don Berchoff

22/05/2025 31 min Episodio 107
Episode 107: The Weather Risk No One's Talking About in Modern Aviation with Don Berchoff

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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 welcomes Don Berchoff, CEO of TruWeather Solutions, to explore how outdated weather infrastructure and low-altitude forecasting gaps are becoming critical risks in modern aviation, especially with the rise of drones, AAM, and pilotless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. 

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