On Thu, 27 Sep 2007 23:32:38 -0400, FredGarvinMaleProstitute
wrote in :

However, if the communication outlets are OTS, how can the
pilot communicate and receive timely weather information?

Scott was in contact with the Atlanta center. Center
controllers separate aircraft and normally do not focus on
weather briefings. That is the job of the AFSS locations.
The AFSS locations communicate with pilots through RCO and
EFAS outlets located at several hundred outlets within the
US airspace system. If the outlet or outlets are
inoperative, then no weather briefings can be received when
the pilot needs them.

It is my understanding that ARTCC and Approach controllers have near
real time weather radar information available at the request of the
pilot. I recall something about 'button three' or something like
that. Obviously, receiving that information from ATC would not be
dependent on communication with AFFS facilities.