What does an AIRMET advise pilots about?

An AIRMET is a weather advisory specifically designed to inform pilots about potentially unsafe weather conditions that may affect their flight operations. Unlike a SIGMET, which addresses more severe phenomena such as tornadoes and thunderstorms, AIRMETs typically cover less intense but still significant weather events, including light icing, turbulence, and general flying hazards that could impact safety.

By providing information on these conditions, AIRMETs help pilots make informed decisions regarding their flight paths, ensuring safety and preparedness for any adverse weather they may encounter. This is crucial for maintaining safety in aviation, especially for small aircraft operating under visual flight rules (VFR).

The other options do not align with the purpose of an AIRMET. Severe weather events are covered by SIGMETs, maintenance procedures are not related to weather advisories, and route planning guidelines are not the focus of an AIRMET, which specifically addresses weather advisories.