FAA Part 107 Exam: Weather Section

Introduction

• Presented by Mr. Mix
• Focus on weather section of FAA Part 107 drone exam
• The exam is for licensing commercial drone pilots
• Weather is a significant section of the exam
• Multiple videos will cover various weather topics

Weather Topics Overview

1. Video 1:
   • Wind
   • Air masses
   • Atmospheric stability
   • Visibility and clouds
2. Video 2:
   • Icing and fog density altitude
   • Weather briefings
   • Terminal Aerodrome Forecasts (TAFs)
3. Video 3:
   • Life cycle of a thunderstorm

Importance of Weather Knowledge

• Remote Pilot in Command (PIC) is responsible for understanding weather conditions
• Check weather conditions before flights
• FAA requires specific cloud clearance:
  • 500 feet below clouds
  • 2000 feet horizontally from clouds

Key Weather Concepts

Wind

• Impact on Flight: Can affect UA's performance and maneuverability
• PIC should know:
  • Effects of ground objects on wind
  • Wind shear: sudden changes in speed/direction
  • Maximum wind speed should not exceed two-thirds of UA's maximum airspeed
• Wind Measurement:
  • Measured in knots (KT)
  • 1 knot = 1.15 mph
• Wind Direction:
  • Reported from direction wind is coming
  • Aircraft heading refers to direction traveling

Air Masses and Fronts

• Air Mass: Large body of air with uniform temperature and moisture
• Front: Line where two different air masses meet
• Cold Front:
  • Accompanied by poor weather
  • Possible turbulence, thunderstorms, hail
• Warm Front:
  • Moves half as fast as cold fronts
  • May cause lower ceilings, increased precipitation, reduced visibility

Atmospheric Stability

• Stable Atmosphere: Resists vertical motion
• Unstable Atmosphere: Allows vertical currents
• Stable Air Characteristics:
  • Stratus clouds, continuous precipitation
  • Smooth air, fair to poor visibility
• Unstable Air Characteristics:
  • Showery precipitation, rough air
  • Good visibility, except in blowing obstructions

Study Tips

• Use flashcards to remember characteristics of stable vs. unstable air
• Understand relation between wind and aircraft heading
• Be aware of questions focusing on manned aviation

Conclusion

• More videos to cover remaining topics
• Emphasis on knowing both practical and theoretical aspects of weather for the exam
• Subscribe and comment for more content and clarification