Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) Practice Exam

What does "RA" stand for in a METAR report?

1. Rain

2. Snow

3. Ice

4. Sleet

The correct answer is: Rain

In a METAR report, "RA" stands for Rain. METAR is an aviation routine weather report that provides essential information on weather conditions at an airport. The codes used in METAR reports follow a standardized format defined by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). When interpreting METAR reports, pilots and meteorologists look for specific weather phenomenon abbreviations. "RA" is designated to indicate the presence of rain, which is critical for flight operations and safety. Recognizing such abbreviations helps pilots assess weather conditions for landing and takeoff, as well as during flight planning. Other choices like Snow, Ice, and Sleet have their own designated abbreviations, such as "SN" for Snow, "IC" for Ice, and "PL" for Sleet, helping to differentiate between various types of precipitation. Understanding these abbreviations allows for a clear and concise assessment of current weather conditions at an airport, which is vital for safe aviation operations.