What does the term "aft" refer to in relation to a TAF?

The term "aft" in relation to a TAF refers to the period after a specified time. In meteorological contexts, particularly when discussing forecasts, "aft" is used to indicate that an event or condition occurs after a reference point in time. For example, if a TAF is issued with specific forecasts valid for a certain timeframe, anything described as happening "aft" relates to occurrences or conditions that will arise following that specified period.

This understanding is crucial for interpreting the timing of weather phenomena in TAF reports, allowing pilots and aviation professionals to plan accordingly based on what to expect in the later stages of a forecast's validity. In contrast, other terms like "current period," "before a specified time," and "overall duration" describe different time aspects of a TAF, which do not align with the definition of "aft."