What is a METAR and why is it used in flight planning?

• A. A meteorological anomaly report
• B. A weather forecast for the next 24 hours
• C. A maintenance report for airports
• D. A METAR is a current weather observation for airports; used to assess weather conditions

Answer: (D)

A METAR is a current weather observation reported from an airport. It provides real-time data such as wind direction and speed, visibility, runway visual range, present weather (like rain or fog), cloud cover and ceiling, temperature and dew point, and the altimeter setting. In flight planning, this information helps you understand the exact conditions at departure, destination, and any alternate airports. You can determine whether the weather meets takeoff and landing minimums, anticipate how conditions might change en route, and decide whether to delay, reroute, or adjust your approach. METARs reflect what is happening now, not what is forecast; forecasts are provided separately by a TAF. The other options describe a forecast, an anomaly report, or a maintenance report, which are not METARs.