SPC - Student Pilot Certificate Aviation Weather Information Questions and Answers

Question 1

A pilot is reviewing the following METAR prior to a local flight: KOKC 182253Z 18015G25KT 10SM SCT040 25/15 A2992. What information does this report provide about the wind?

Accepted Answer

The wind is from 180 degrees true at 15 knots, with gusts to 25 knots.

Answer

In a METAR, the wind information follows the date/time group. '18015G25KT' decodes as: wind from 180 degrees true at a speed of 15 knots, with gusts up to 25 knots. It's crucial to remember that METAR wind direction is always reported in true north.

Question 2

You are planning a cross-country flight and are concerned about potential icing conditions. Which of the following weather advisories is most pertinent to your flight planning?

Accepted Answer

An AIRMET Zulu for moderate icing and freezing levels.

Answer

AIRMETs are advisories for weather that may be hazardous to light aircraft. Specifically, an AIRMET Zulu is issued for moderate icing and defines the freezing levels, which is critical information for avoiding icing conditions. AIRMET Sierra deals with IFR conditions and mountain obscuration, and a Convective SIGMET warns of severe thunderstorm activity.

Question 3

Which of the following weather products provides a forecast of weather conditions expected at a specific airport for a specified period, typically 24-30 hours?

Accepted Answer

Terminal Aerodrome Forecast (TAF)

Answer

A Terminal Aerodrome Forecast (TAF) is a weather forecast for the 5 statute mile radius around an airport. It is issued several times a day and is valid for a 24 or 30-hour period. A METAR provides current conditions, not a forecast. A PIREP is a report from a pilot in flight. An FA covers a broad geographical area.

Question 4

During a preflight briefing, you are told that the temperature is 15°C and the dew point is 12°C at your departure airport. What potential weather concern should this information raise?

Accepted Answer

These conditions are ideal for the formation of fog or low clouds.

Answer

When the temperature and dew point are close together (typically within 3-5°C), the air is close to saturation. This proximity increases the likelihood of fog, mist, or low clouds forming, which could adversely affect visibility for a VFR flight.

Question 5

A student pilot is on a solo cross-country flight and encounters unforecast weather that is more severe than anticipated. Which type of in-flight weather advisory would warn of severe turbulence that is hazardous to all aircraft?

Accepted Answer

SIGMET

Answer

A SIGMET (Significant Meteorological Information) is issued for weather phenomena that are potentially hazardous to all aircraft. This includes severe turbulence, severe icing, widespread dust storms, sandstorms, or volcanic ash. AIRMET Tango is for moderate turbulence. A CWA is an advisory for air traffic control, and a PIREP is a report from a pilot.

(SPC) Student Pilot Certificate Practice Test

(SPC) Student Pilot Certificate Practice Test

SPC - Student Pilot Certificate Aviation Weather Information Questions and Answers