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

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 welcomes Don Berchoff, CEO of TruWeather Solutions, to explore how outdated weather infrastructure and low-altitude forecasting gaps are becoming critical risks in modern aviation, especially with the rise of drones, AAM, and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