B737-700
Air Traffic Control Fully Certified
Other / Unknown
ATC Issue All Types; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Published Material / Policy
Air Traffic Control Issued New Clearance
Procedure; Weather
BHM Runways 24/18 in use; SCT040-050 with light to moderate precipitation 2 miles off Runway 24 departure end on the centerline extending to 10-12 miles moving southeast. Approximately 10 minutes prior to Air Carrier X's departure; a B737 and CRJ departed through the precipitation mentioned above with no complaints. Prior to Air Carrier X's taxi; two other aircraft were taxing for departure on Runway 24. Air Carrier X called for taxi and requested Runway 6 to depart away from the 'thunderstorm.' I informed Air Carrier X of the recent policy change and denied the request for an opposite direction departure. I also offered a heading after departure north of the precipitation; passed along the weather I observed on the Tower Display Workstation (TDW) which had moved further to the southeast away from his flight path and diminished in intensity; and the recent departures ride reports. Air Carrier X was concerned about the safety of flight/passengers and the policy change. After dialog with Air Carrier X he informed me he wanted to file a complaint. Air Carrier X was cleared for takeoff on Runway 24; looked at the weather RADAR when he was lining up and requested a 360 heading on climb out. I coordinated the heading with the Departure Controller and issued the heading. I observed Air Carrier X on climb out without binoculars climbing through 10;000 FT in VMC. At no time did I feel as though I jeopardized the safety of flight by issuing Runway 24 to Air Carrier X. Local policy changes are in the works.
BHM Controller described an event when an Air Carrier requested an opposite direction takeoff because of weather near the airport. The request was denied because of new 'opposite direction' procedures.