Lesson 6.0  Weather Theory & Meterology

Lesson 6.0 – Weather Theory & Meteorology

(Lesson Overview Page)

Weather is one of the most important factors affecting every flight. Understanding basic weather theory helps you make better decisions before and during a flight, and it is a major topic on both the knowledge test and the practical test.

In this unit we will study how the atmosphere works, what creates weather, and how to interpret the weather information pilots use every day.

Work through these sub-lessons in order. Focus on understanding the cause-and-effect relationships rather than just memorizing facts.

In these sub-lessons you will learn:

• 6.1 The Atmosphere & Atmospheric Pressure Composition of the atmosphere, pressure, density, and how pressure changes with altitude

• 6.2 Temperature, Moisture & Cloud Formation Temperature, dew point, humidity, stability, and how clouds form

• 6.3 Air Masses, Fronts & Weather Patterns Air masses, fronts, and the weather commonly associated with them

• 6.4 Thunderstorms, Turbulence, Icing & Other Hazards Hazardous weather and how to avoid it

• 6.5 Weather Reports, Forecasts & Charts METARs, TAFs, surface analysis charts, and other pilot weather resources

Master these concepts and you will be much better prepared to make safe go/no-go decisions and to understand the weather briefing you receive before each flight. I have heard 2 light aircraft on emergency frequency 121.5  crash due to icing.