Checking IFR Weather Flashcards
Why are visibility and ceiling important in aviation?
Visibility and ceiling are crucial at the destination and alternate airports, as well as en route, to know landing options if needed.
What is the most basic necessity for understanding weather in aviation?
A knowledge of the weather synopsis, including the locations of highs, lows, and fronts.
What are essential aviation-specific weather products to study?
Terminal aerodrome forecasts, winds aloft forecasts, METARs, PIREPs, radar, AIRMETs, SIGMETs, and especially convective SIGMETs.
What additional tools can supplement aviation weather resources?
Graphical Forecast for Aviation, Forecast Icing map, forecast discussion, and convective forecast.
What should you be cautious about when interpreting forecasts?
Forecasts are based on computer models and may not always be accurate, so understanding anticipated conditions is important.
What does a TAF address?
A TAF addresses expected conditions only around the airport.
What is the difference between METAR and TAF?
METARs are observations of current conditions, while TAFs are forecasts of expected conditions.
Why is it important to check the age of pilot reports?
In rapidly changing weather, older reports may not reflect current flying conditions.
What information can radar provide in aviation weather?
Radar shows where rain is falling, thunderstorms, echo tops, movement, and lightning activity.
What are SIGMETs?
SIGMETs are statements about significant weather conditions and outlooks on their expected development.
What are the two uses of winds aloft forecasts before takeoff?
To estimate travel time to the destination and alternate, and to assess the possibility of structural icing.
What is the difference between probability and severity maps in icing products?
Probability maps show how likely icing will occur, while severity maps indicate how heavy the potential icing could be.
What do Convective SIGMETs indicate?
They indicate lines of thunderstorms and large areas of thunderstorms, valid for up to two hours.
What does the graphical turbulence forecast show?
It shows forecast turbulence at different altitudes and times, helping to find smoother flight paths.
What should be checked to ensure safe flying conditions before takeoff?
The synopsis and actual/forecast conditions to identify any undesirable weather.
What weather conditions should raise red flags?
A big moisture supply and unstable air can lead to ice or thunderstorms.
What is a warning sign when fronts are occluding?
Occlusions can create nasty flying conditions, particularly with wind shear.
Why should forecast surface winds be monitored?
Surface winds can exceed limits for some airplanes, affecting landing at the destination or alternate.
What should be considered when flying over mountainous terrain?
Forecast winds at ridge level; velocities over 20 or 30 knots can indicate turbulence.
How should weather checking continue once airborne?
By using radio broadcasts, datalink weather, and observing actual conditions.
What is the significance of the actual conditions not matching expectations?
It should prompt further investigation and curiosity about the current weather.
What does a substantial difference between actual and forecast winds aloft indicate?
It suggests that the computer model may be in error, making other forecasts suspect.
What is the best weather sensor in aviation?
The airplane itself, as it experiences actual conditions.
