What is METAR?

• A. A forecast for the next 24 hours.
• B. A satellite weather image.
• C. A weather trend report.
• D. An aviation routine weather report providing current conditions at an airport.

Answer: (D)

METAR is an aviation routine weather report that provides current conditions at an airport. It’s a snapshot used by pilots and air traffic to understand what’s happening on the field and in the nearby airspace right now, not a forecast. A METAR typically includes wind direction and speed, visibility, cloud cover and base, present weather phenomena (like rain or snow), temperature and dew point, and the altimeter setting. It’s issued regularly, usually every hour, with amendments if conditions change. This is different from a forecast for the next 24 hours, a satellite image, or a general weather trend report.