Which information categories are typically included in a weather transmission when asked?

• A. Temperature only
• B. Humidity only
• C. Winds, visibility, and significant conditions
• D. Pressure only

Answer: (C)

When pilots receive weather transmissions, the most essential elements to convey are winds, visibility, and significant conditions. Winds tell you how fast and from which direction the air is moving, which matters for takeoff, landing, and fuel/power planning. Visibility indicates how far you—or air traffic controllers—can see the runway and surrounding hazards, a key factor for approach decisions and situational awareness. Significant conditions summarize any weather phenomena that could affect safety, such as precipitation, fog, thunderstorms, or icing, signaling the need for caution, altitude adjustments, or course changes.

Temperature or humidity alone don’t provide the immediate, actionable picture needed for flight operations, and pressure (altimeter), while important, isn’t the primary trio of categories used in a general weather transmission. The combination of winds, visibility, and significant conditions gives the clearest snapshot for safe planning and decision-making.