Which type of NOTAM is specifically used to report on airfield conditions?

The type of NOTAM specifically used to report on airfield conditions is a FICON NOTAM. FICON, which stands for Field Condition, is designed to provide information about the condition of the runway, taxiways, and other related surfaces at an airport. This includes details on factors such as snow, ice, standing water, or any other surface hazards that may affect pilots' landing and takeoff operations.

FICON NOTAMs are crucial for flight safety as they provide the necessary updates for pilots to assess the conditions of the airfield prior to landing or takeoff, ensuring they have the latest information needed to make informed decisions.

The other types of NOTAMs serve different purposes: D NOTAMs report on general changes to the aeronautical information, Pointer NOTAMs direct attention to other NOTAMs, and FDC NOTAMs cover regulatory changes and flight restrictions. While each plays a role in aviation safety and information dissemination, FICON NOTAMs are the specific source for airfield condition updates, making them indispensable in maintaining safety and operational efficacy on the runways and taxiways.