Weather Observation & Reporting Flashcards
7 cards from real CTO practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Weather Observation & Reporting flashcards as text
An ATIS broadcast indicates 'Runway Visual Range 2400 feet.' What is the primary source of this RVR value?
Answer: Transmissometer or forward scatter sensor at runway touch-down zone
RVR is measured by transmissometers or forward scatter sensors positioned at the runway touchdown zone, mid-field, and rollout areas.
When are controllers required to issue a Low-Level Wind Shear Alert System (LLWAS) alert to pilots?
Answer: Whenever the system detects a wind shear alert of 15 knots or greater
FAA orders require controllers to alert pilots to LLWAS wind shear alerts of 15 knots or greater microburst alerts.
What information does the 'PRESRR' remark in a METAR convey?
Answer: Pressure rising rapidly
PRESRR indicates the altimeter setting is rising rapidly, typically by 0.06 inches Hg or more in less than an hour.
A SPECI is issued when visibility drops below which threshold while previously above it?
Answer: 3 statute miles
A SPECI special observation is required when visibility falls below or recovers to 3 statute miles.
What does the coded remark 'TS B25' in a METAR indicate?
Answer: Thunderstorm began at 25 minutes past the hour
In METAR remarks, 'TS B' followed by minutes indicates when the thunderstorm began during the observation hour.
A controller observes lightning in the distance but no precipitation is falling at the airport. What weather code is used in the METAR?
Answer: VCTS (thunderstorm in vicinity)
VCTS indicates a thunderstorm is occurring in the vicinity (5-10 miles) of the airport but not at the station.
Which surface weather observation element is reported immediately after the date/time group in a METAR?
Answer: AUTO or COR (modifier)
After the date/time group, a METAR shows AUTO for automated observations or COR for corrected reports before the wind group.
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