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Meaning of Zulu time

Remote Pilot (Part 107) practice question 10 of 15 on Operations / Radio Communications. ACS element UA.V.A.K8 · difficulty: recall. Want to answer it in a timed quiz? Use the Remote Pilot (Part 107) practice mode.

Question bank updated 2026-09-22

QUESTIONIn aviation phraseology, what does the term 'Zulu time' refer to?

  1. ALocal standard time at the airport where the report or broadcast originates
  2. BThe local time at the airport, converted to daylight saving time when it is in effect
  3. CCoordinated Universal Time (UTC), a single worldwide time standard
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: C. Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), a single worldwide time standard

  • A — incorrect Zulu time is specifically contrasted with local time; the 'Z' suffix shows the time is UTC, not local.
  • B — incorrect Zulu time does not depend on local daylight saving rules; it is a single standard applied worldwide.
  • C — correct The study guide defines Zulu time as the term used in aviation for UTC, which places the entire world on one time standard; a 'Z' is appended to a time to show it is given in Zulu time.

BACKGROUND

Aviation uses one time standard so that reports and broadcasts can be understood anywhere. The study guide explains that 'Zulu time' is the term used in aviation for Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), which places the entire world on one time standard. In a METAR, for example, the date and time group such as 161753Z gives the time in UTC, and the letter 'Z' is appended to denote that the time is Zulu rather than local. A remote pilot reading weather reports or listening to recorded broadcasts must convert Zulu time to local time to know when the information was issued.

STUDY TIP

Whenever you see a 'Z' after a time, read it as UTC and convert to your local zone before using it for planning.

KEY POINTS

  • Zulu time is the aviation term for Coordinated Universal Time (UTC).
  • A 'Z' appended to a time indicates it is given in UTC, not local time.
  • One worldwide standard lets reports be understood in every time zone.

SOURCES

  • remote_pilot_study_guide.txt ch3a "Zulu time" (METAR item 11)
  • remote_pilot_study_guide.txt ch3a "Date and time of report" (METAR item 3)
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SkyDrill is not affiliated with the FAA. This is an original practice item based on 14 CFR part 107, 14 CFR part 89, and the FAA Remote Pilot – Small UAS Study Guide (FAA-G-8082-22). Regulations and handbooks are revised; confirm details against the current edition.