Learning goals
- Build a weather go/no-go routine
- Plan an exit option before departure
A good decision is made before the engine starts. Write down the lowest ceiling, visibility and wind you will accept for this flight, and compare them with the forecasts along the whole route — not just at the destination.
The Risk Management Handbook builds personal minimums starting with weather flight categories. The Aviation Weather Handbook warns that cockpit NEXRAD data can be 5 to 15 minutes old or more, so it is for broad strategic avoidance of thunderstorms and never for navigating through them. Identify an alternate and an escape direction; if conditions trend toward your limits, a delay is a valid outcome.
Assigned reading
Aviation Weather Handbook (FAA-H-8083-28B (listed 04/02/2026))
Aviation Weather Handbook §3.2 (NEXRAD use) and thunderstorm chapters; Risk Management Handbook Ch. 2 · Federal Aviation Administration · reviewed 2026-10-21
Self-check
Original practice questions for self-assessment only — not FAA test questions and not a certification.
Study preparation only. Not FAA-approved ground training, no endorsement, logbook or flight-time credit, and no guaranteed test result. Always follow your instructor and the approved AFM/POH for your aircraft.