FAA Part 107 Drone Practice Test

What is typically the visibility reported in a METAR for poor weather conditions?

1. 1 statute mile

2. 3/4 statute mile

3. 5 statute miles

4. 5 kilometers

The correct answer is: 3/4 statute mile

In a METAR report, visibility is a crucial component used to assess weather conditions at an airport. When poor weather conditions are reported, visibility is typically listed as less than what would be considered good or optimal flying conditions. A visibility of 3/4 statute mile represents a significant reduction in visibility and is indicative of conditions such as fog, rain, or heavy cloud cover, which can greatly affect flight operations. The choice of 3/4 statute mile aligns well with what is commonly recognized in aviation as a threshold for poor visibility, which can impact a pilot's ability to operate safely. While other visibility values like 1 statute mile are also low, they are often still considered acceptable for certain types of operations, whereas 3/4 statute mile is a more definitive marker of challenging conditions. Thus, the selection of 3/4 statute mile as the representation of poor weather conditions in a METAR is a standard practice, making it the correct response in this context.