A dispatcher checks the Graphical AIRMET (G-AIRMET) product before a domestic flight. Which of the following best describes this product?
- AIssued four times daily with forecast panels valid at 3, 6, 9, and 12 hours, depicting IFR conditions, mountain obscuration, turbulence, icing, and strong surface winds
- BA text-only bulletin issued hourly describing convective activity that meets severe thunderstorm criteria
- CA chart depicting only jet stream position and clear air turbulence above FL450
- DA forecast product limited to freezing level data, updated once every 24 hours
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Issued four times daily with forecast panels valid at 3, 6, 9, and 12 hours, depicting IFR conditions, mountain obscuration, turbulence, icing, and strong surface winds
The G-AIRMET is a graphical depiction of AIRMET-level hazards (IFR, mountain obscuration, turbulence, icing, and surface winds ≥30 knots) issued four times daily with forecast panels for 3, 6, 9, and 12 hours after issuance. It replaced/supplements the text AIRMET bulletins with a more precise graphical product.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Describes a Convective SIGMET-type product, not the G-AIRMET.
- C. CAT and jet stream data appear on other products; this understates the G-AIRMET's full scope.
- D. Freezing level is only one of several elements depicted; the update cycle is also incorrect.
G-AIRMET
A graphical forecast product depicting AIRMET-level hazards (IFR, mountain obscuration, turbulence, icing, and strong surface winds) issued four times daily with forecast panels out to 12 hours.
- Issued at 0000, 0600, 1200, 1800Z with forecast hours at 3,6,9,12
- Depicts sky/visibility (IFR), mountain obscuration, turbulence, icing, and freezing levels, and surface winds ≥30 kt
- Graphical successor supplementing text AIRMETs for more precise hazard areas
Memory trick: G-AIRMET = Graphic Guide to moderate hazards, four times a day