FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot (UAG)OperationsHard
A remote pilot reviews the following Terminal Aerodrome Forecast (TAF) excerpt before a planned evening survey flight: 'KSMF 0517/0617 20008KT 9999 FEW030 SCT080 TEMPO 0520/0523 23015G25KT BKN040.' What wind conditions are expected between 2000Z and 2300Z (8 PM and 11 PM local time, assuming no daylight saving for UTC offset)?
- AWinds calm or light and variable.
- BWinds from 230 degrees at 15 knots, gusting to 25 knots.
- CWinds from 050 degrees at 17 knots.
- DWinds from 200 degrees at 8 knots.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Winds from 230 degrees at 15 knots, gusting to 25 knots.
The TAF indicates 'TEMPO 0520/0523 23015G25KT BKN040'. 'TEMPO' means temporary conditions expected to last less than an hour at a time, but for less than half the period. '0520/0523' specifies the period as the 5th day from 2000Z to 2300Z. '23015G25KT' decodes as winds from 230 degrees at 15 knots, gusting to 25 knots.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This is incorrect; the TAF clearly forecasts specific wind conditions.
- C. This is incorrect; it mixes parts of the date/time with wind direction/speed, and the direction/speed are wrong.
- D. This describes the prevailing winds, not the temporary conditions during the specified period.
TAF (Terminal Aerodrome Forecast) Interpretation
A concise statement of the expected meteorological conditions significant to aviation for a specific airport during a 24- or 30-hour period. It includes wind, visibility, weather, and cloud conditions.
- Issued for specific airports.
- Forecasts conditions for a specific time period.
- Uses standard aviation weather codes (e.g., KT for knots, G for gusts, TEMPO for temporary changes).
Memory trick: TEMPO means temporary, winds will vary.