ADX Weather and Environmental Factors 4

Question 1

What is the standard definition of a 'severe thunderstorm' as used in aviation weather products?

Accepted Answer

A thunderstorm with surface winds of 50 knots or greater and/or hail 3/4 inch diameter or larger

Answer

A severe thunderstorm is officially defined as one producing surface winds of 50 knots (58 mph) or greater and/or hail with a diameter of 3/4 inch or larger at the surface.

Question 2

Which area of a thunderstorm cell is associated with the greatest turbulence hazard at cruise altitude?

Accepted Answer

The overhang area just outside the storm's visible cloud boundary

Answer

The overhang region just outside the visible cloud boundary of a mature thunderstorm cell can contain severe turbulence in clear air, caused by strong updrafts and wind shear near the storm's top.

Question 3

A dispatcher is reviewing a Winds and Temperatures Aloft forecast (FB). The entry '7306+04' at FL390 means:

Accepted Answer

Wind from 230° at 106 knots, temperature +04°C

Answer

When the wind direction digits exceed 36 (e.g., 73), subtract 50 from the direction and add 100 knots to the speed: 73-50=230°, 06+100=106 knots, temperature +04°C.

Question 4

What meteorological condition is described by the acronym LLWS, and why does it concern dispatchers during approach?

Accepted Answer

Low Level Wind Shear — a sudden change in wind speed or direction below 2,000 ft AGL that can cause loss of airspeed and control on approach

Answer

Low Level Wind Shear (LLWS) is a rapid change in wind velocity or direction below 2,000 ft AGL that can cause sudden airspeed fluctuations, making it a critical hazard during approach and landing.

Question 5

Which cloud type is most directly associated with clear air turbulence (CAT) near the jet stream?

Accepted Answer

Cirrus in bands perpendicular to the jet stream

Answer

Banded cirrus clouds oriented perpendicular (transverse) to the jet stream axis are a visual indicator of strong wind shear and the likelihood of clear air turbulence in that area.

(ADX) Aircraft Dispatcher Practice Test

(ADX) Aircraft Dispatcher Practice Test

ADX Weather and Environmental Factors 4