FAA Private Pilot Helicopter (PRH)WeatherMedium
A helicopter pilot receives a METAR for the departure airport that includes the coded group 'R07/0400V0600FT'. What does this information indicate?
- ARunway light intensity for runway 07 is set to 400, increasing to 600.
- BRunway visual range for runway 07 is varying between 400 and 600 feet.
- CRunway 07 reports a vertical visibility of 400 feet, varying to 600 feet.
- DRunway 07 has a variable visibility between 400 and 600 feet.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Runway visual range for runway 07 is varying between 400 and 600 feet.
The 'R' in a METAR coded group signifies Runway Visual Range (RVR). The subsequent two digits '07' indicate the runway number. The 'V' indicates variability, and '0400V0600FT' means the RVR is varying between 400 and 600 feet.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Runway light intensity is not part of this METAR group and is not indicated by 'R' or 'V' in this context.
- C. Vertical visibility is reported differently (e.g., 'VV004') and is not indicated by 'R'.
- D. This option incorrectly interprets RVR as general runway visibility and misses the specific meaning of 'R'.
Runway Visual Range (RVR)
Runway Visual Range (RVR) is the horizontal distance a pilot can see down the runway from the approach end, typically measured by instruments. It's reported in METARs and used for instrument flight rule (IFR) operations, especially during low visibility conditions.
- Reported in feet or meters.
- Indicates visibility along a specific runway.
- Crucial for takeoff and landing minimums in IFR.
Memory trick: METARs Reveal Very Important Runway Data.