SIFT SIFT Aviation Weather and Navigation Questions and Answers 3

Question 1

What is the purpose of a TAF (Terminal Aerodrome Forecast)?

Accepted Answer

To provide a weather forecast for the area around a specific airport, valid for 24–30 hours

Answer

To list NOTAMs for a specific airfield

Answer

To report actual winds aloft measured by weather balloons

Answer

To document pilot-reported weather hazards along an airway

Question 2

Which type of turbulence is caused by mechanical disruption of airflow as wind passes over irregular terrain such as hills or ridgelines?

Accepted Answer

Mechanical turbulence

Answer

Thermal turbulence

Answer

Clear-air turbulence (CAT)

Answer

Wake turbulence

Question 3

On a sectional aeronautical chart, what color is used to depict Class D controlled airspace around smaller airports with operating control towers?

Accepted Answer

Blue

Answer

Red

Answer

Magenta

Answer

Green

Question 4

In Army aviation navigation, what does a magnetic compass primarily measure?

Accepted Answer

The horizontal component of the Earth's magnetic field to indicate direction

Answer

The aircraft's speed relative to the ground

Answer

Air pressure changes to determine altitude

Answer

The rate of turn in degrees per second

Question 5

Which condition describes a temperature inversion, and why is it relevant to Army aviators?

Accepted Answer

Temperature increasing with altitude instead of decreasing, which can trap fog and reduce visibility near the surface

Answer

Temperature decreasing with altitude at a faster-than-normal rate, causing severe downdrafts

Answer

Temperature remaining constant with altitude, indicating stable but high-density air

Answer

Temperature exceeding ISA standard by 10°C or more, indicating extreme density altitude

Question 6

What is the primary purpose of a pilot checking winds aloft forecasts (FB) before an Army aviation mission?

Accepted Answer

To plan fuel loads, true airspeeds, and estimated times en route by accounting for headwinds and tailwinds at cruise altitude

Answer

To determine the correct IFF squawk code for the flight

Answer

To identify restricted military operating areas along the route

Answer

To verify the aircraft's altimeter setting before departure