Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) Practice Exam

What is the purpose of a TAF?

1. To report current weather conditions

2. To forecast expected weather conditions

3. To collect data on airport traffic volumes

4. To evaluate pilot performance during flying tests

The correct answer is: To forecast expected weather conditions

The purpose of a TAF, or Terminal Aerodrome Forecast, is to provide a forecast of expected weather conditions at an airport over a specified period, typically for a 24 or 30-hour timeframe. TAFs include vital information such as expected wind direction and speed, visibility, significant weather phenomena (like rain or snow), and cloud cover. This forecast is essential for pilots as it aids in flight planning and decision-making regarding safe operations. Unlike METARs, which report current weather conditions, TAFs give pilots information about how conditions are expected to change, allowing them to anticipate weather effects on their flights and adjust their plans accordingly. The focus on future weather conditions makes TAFs a crucial tool in aviation safety and operation. Other options pertain to different aspects of aviation. For example, reporting current weather conditions refers to METARs, while collecting data on airport traffic volumes and evaluating pilot performance are unrelated to weather forecasting, thus distinguishing the TAF's unique purpose in providing weather forecasts.