Weather Effects & Flight Planning Flashcards

What weather phenomenon is indicated by a rapidly falling barometric pressure?

Answer: Approaching storm system

A rapidly falling barometric pressure indicates an approaching storm system with deteriorating weather conditions.

Which type of fog forms when warm, moist air moves over a cooler surface?

Answer: Advection fog

Advection fog forms when warm, moist air moves horizontally over a cooler surface, causing the air to cool to its dew point.

A drone pilot notices the wind is gusty and variable. What is the primary flight concern?

Answer: Difficulty maintaining stable position and altitude

Gusty and variable winds make it difficult for the drone to maintain stable position and altitude, increasing crash risk.

What does a SIGMET (Significant Meteorological Information) advise drone pilots about?

Answer: Hazardous weather conditions significant to all aircraft

A SIGMET advises of hazardous weather conditions considered significant to all aircraft, including severe turbulence, icing, and volcanic ash.

How does high humidity affect drone battery performance?

Answer: Can reduce battery efficiency and increase risk of moisture damage

High humidity can reduce battery efficiency and may cause moisture damage to electronics, shortening flight time and risking equipment failure.

What is the definition of 'dew point' and why is it important for drone operations?

Answer: The temperature at which air becomes saturated and condensation occurs, indicating fog or icing risk

Dew point is the temperature at which air becomes saturated and condensation forms, which helps pilots assess risk of fog, low visibility, and icing.

A drone pilot plans a flight at sunrise. Which weather hazard is most likely?

Answer: Radiation fog or low visibility

Radiation fog commonly forms overnight and is most dense at sunrise before solar heating dissipates it, creating low visibility hazards.