Weather Interpretation & Meteorology for Controllers Flashcards
6 cards from real CPC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Weather Interpretation & Meteorology for Controllers flashcards as text
What is wind shear and why is it critical information for approach controllers?
Answer: A sudden change in wind speed and/or direction that can cause rapid airspeed changes on approach
Wind shear is a sudden change in wind velocity or direction that can cause dangerous airspeed fluctuations during approach and departure phases.
A microburst is characterized by which feature that makes it particularly dangerous?
Answer: A downdraft that produces increasing headwind then rapid tailwind loss
A microburst produces an initial performance-increasing headwind followed by a severe performance-decreasing tailwind, making it extremely hazardous on approach.
When should a controller issue a low-level wind shear (LLWS) advisory to pilots?
Answer: Whenever PIREPs or LLWAS alerts indicate wind shear below 2,000 ft AGL
Controllers must promptly relay wind shear advisories when LLWAS alerts or PIREPs report wind shear conditions below 2,000 ft AGL.
What does a pilot report of 'moderate icing in cloud' indicate to an approach controller?
Answer: Ice accumulation is rapid enough to affect performance and may warrant re-routing
Moderate icing means ice accumulates rapidly enough to require frequent use of de-icing equipment and may be hazardous if prolonged, warranting consideration of alternate routing.
What weather phenomenon is associated with a temperature inversion and can produce smooth but disorienting flying conditions?
Answer: Radiation fog and restricted visibility
Temperature inversions trap moisture near the surface, producing radiation fog and significantly restricted visibility, especially in early morning hours.
Which automated system at airports provides real-time wind shear detection data to controllers?
Answer: LLWAS (Low Level Wind Shear Alert System)
The Low Level Wind Shear Alert System (LLWAS) uses a network of anemometers to detect surface wind shear and provides real-time alerts to controllers.