Why this domain matters
Weather questions test two things: whether you understand the physics that affect a lightweight aircraft, and whether you can read a coded METAR or TAF without a translator. Both are very scoreable once you learn the format.
The working model
On the physics side, know that density altitude (high temperature, high elevation, high humidity) reduces lift and propeller efficiency, so your drone performs worse on hot days at altitude. Understand that stable air resists vertical motion and produces smooth conditions and poor visibility, while unstable air produces turbulence, good visibility, and cumulus clouds. Wind near the surface is affected by friction and terrain.
On the products side, the METAR is an hourly observation of current conditions and includes wind, visibility, weather, sky condition, temperature/dewpoint, and altimeter setting. A TAF forecasts wind, visibility, significant weather, and sky condition for the area around an airport and uses valid-time and change groups; it does not use the METAR's observed temperature/dewpoint and altimeter groups. A small observed temperature/dewpoint spread signals possible fog or low visibility.
Specialist weather lab
Decode the report before memorizing more weather terms.
The dedicated METAR and TAF desk gives the report room to work: multiple observations, a forecast timeline, a coded-report builder, and a drone-specific go, caution, or no-go call.
Open the METAR and TAF labCalculate density altitudeUse this module for
- Weather theory, fronts, fog, stability, and thunderstorms
- Flashcards for report abbreviations and performance effects
- A short knowledge check before focused question practice
Key facts to memorize
| Concept | What to know |
|---|---|
| METAR | An hourly observation of CURRENT weather at a station. Coded: wind, visibility, weather, sky cover, temp/dewpoint, altimeter. |
| TAF | A Terminal Aerodrome FORECAST for the ~5-statute-mile area around an airport, valid 24-30 hours. It forecasts wind, visibility, significant weather, and sky condition with timing/change groups, not METAR temperature/dewpoint or altimeter fields. |
| Wind in a METAR | Reported as direction in degrees TRUE and speed in knots, e.g. 24015G25KT = from 240° at 15 kt gusting 25 kt. |
| Sky cover codes | SKC/CLR (clear), FEW, SCT (scattered), BKN (broken), OVC (overcast); BKN/OVC define a ceiling. |
| Density altitude | High temperature, high elevation, and high humidity all raise density altitude and reduce lift and performance. |
| Temp/dewpoint spread | A small spread (close numbers) means high humidity and a higher chance of fog or low visibility. |
| Stable vs. unstable air | Stable air = smooth, poor visibility, stratus clouds. Unstable air = turbulence, good visibility, cumulus clouds. |
| Altimeter setting | Given in inches of mercury, e.g. A2992 = 29.92 inHg, the standard sea-level pressure. |
| ASOS/AWOS | Automated weather stations provide wind, visibility, sky condition, temperature/dewpoint, altimeter, and other local observations. |
| Weather charts | Surface analysis and prog charts help spot fronts, pressure systems, precipitation, and changing flight conditions. |
| Fronts and air masses | Cold fronts can bring gusty winds and thunderstorms; warm fronts often bring widespread clouds, precipitation, and reduced visibility. |
| Convective hazards | Thunderstorms, microbursts, tornadoes, hail, icing, and lightning are no-go hazards for small UAS. |
| Ceiling and visibility | Ceiling is the lowest broken or overcast layer; Part 107 still requires 3 SM visibility and cloud clearance. |
| Fog | Fog is likely when temperature and dewpoint are close, especially with light wind and stable air. |
Flashcards
Active recall beats re-reading. Flip each card, say the answer out loud, then check yourself. Prefer paper? See all five flashcard decks.
UAG III / Weather
5% of scored items
01 / 13
13 learning / 0 known
Quick self-check
A short drill on this module. You get the explanation the moment you answer.
0 / 6 answered
A METAR reports temperature 18°C and dewpoint 17°C. What is the most likely consequence for your flight?
You plan to fly from a high-elevation site on a hot, humid afternoon. How does this affect performance?
Which product gives you the CURRENT observed conditions at a station rather than a forecast?
A forecast calls for thunderstorms with possible microbursts. What is the safest Part 107 decision?
Which automated source can provide local wind, visibility, temperature/dewpoint, and altimeter information?
Which source should you use for a recorded or automated local airport weather broadcast before monitoring tower or CTAF?
Original practice material, not the actual FAA exam questions.
Listen to this module
The Weather podcast episode: study on the go.
Practice this topic
Work explained Weather questions before the full simulator.
Study material current as of July 2026 and sourced from the FAA (14 CFR Part 107, FAA UAS guidance, AC 90-48E, and current PSI test guidance). Flashcards and quiz items are original practice material, not the actual FAA exam questions. Educational, not legal advice. Verify current rules at faa.gov/uas before you fly.