Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) Practice Exam

In METAR reporting, what does "/-" indicate?

1. Increasing conditions

2. Decreasing conditions

3. Stable conditions

4. Intense precipitation

The correct answer is: Decreasing conditions

The indication of "/-" in a METAR report signifies that there are decreasing conditions, particularly referring to precipitation or visibility. In this context, the notation is used to describe trends in weather elements such as rain or snow, indicating that their intensity is diminishing over time. This is a crucial aspect in aviation weather reporting as it helps pilots assess current and expected conditions, which are vital for safe flight planning and operations. In contrast, the other choices do not accurately depict what the "/-" signifies. For instance, "increasing conditions" would be represented by a different symbol, such as a "+", while "stable conditions" would not be associated with any trend indicator like "/-". Additionally, "intense precipitation" is typically indicated by the use of "heavy" or a "+" symbol, rather than a decrease in conditions. Understanding these specific weather indicators is essential for pilots and flight instructors in interpreting METAR reports effectively.