Severe Wind Shear at Soekarno–Hatta International Airport: The Role of Sea Breeze Front and Meteorological Factors

Wind shear presents a significant hazard to aviation, particularly during critical flight phases such as takeoff and landing. On 12 February 2025, six aircraft at Soekarno–Hatta International Airport conducted go-arounds due to wind shear events between 07:35 UTC and 08:37 UTC. This study employs meteorological observations (AWOS and METAR), remote sensing data (Doppler radar and wind profiler), and pilot reports (PIREPs) to investigate the underlying meteorological mechanisms and assess the effectiveness of issued warnings.
Doppler radar detected a Sea Breeze Front (SBF) moving inland, which created sharp thermal and pressure gradients, further intensifying wind shear along the final approach path. Wind profiler data revealed substantial vertical wind variations of up to 3,000 m, while surface observations recorded gusts reaching 28 knots, indicating significant near-surface turbulence. METAR reports issued "WS ALL RWY" (wind shear affecting all runways) warnings at 07:30 UTC and 08:00 UTC, coinciding with pilot-reported wind shear encounters. Additionally, Wind Shear Warnings and an Aerodrome Warning for strong winds were disseminated via the Aeronautical Message Handling System (AMHS) and other communication channels, ensuring timely and effective communication with relevant stakeholders. This proactive approach enabled air traffic controllers and flight crews to implement risk mitigation measures, minimizing operational disruptions.
These findings offer crucial insights into the operational impacts of wind shear and underscore the need for continuous advancements in meteorological support for aviation. Strengthening early warning systems and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration between meteorologists, air traffic controllers, and pilots are essential for enhancing aviation safety, particularly in tropical regions prone to localized wind shear phenomena.