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Meaning of a falling barometric pressure trend

Remote Pilot (Part 107) practice question 2 of 25 on Weather / Effects on Performance. ACS element UA.III.B.K1c · difficulty: standard. Want to answer it in a timed quiz? Use the Remote Pilot (Part 107) practice mode.

Question bank updated 2026-09-22

QUESTIONBefore a flight, a remote pilot notes that the barometric pressure at the nearest weather station has been falling rapidly for several hours. What does this trend usually indicate?

  1. AThe approach of fair weather with clearing skies
  2. BApproaching bad weather, possibly severe storms
  3. CA stable air mass settling over the area
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: B. Approaching bad weather, possibly severe storms

  • A — incorrect Fair weather is generally indicated by a pattern of rising pressure, not falling pressure.
  • B — correct The study guide states that decreasing or rapidly falling pressure usually indicates approaching bad weather and possibly severe storms.
  • C — incorrect Pressure trend is used to predict the movement of pressure systems; a rapid fall points to worsening weather, not to a settled, stable air mass.

BACKGROUND

By tracking barometric pressure trends across a large area, forecasters can predict the movement of pressure systems and the weather associated with them. Tracking a pattern of rising pressure at a single station generally indicates the approach of fair weather. Conversely, decreasing or rapidly falling pressure usually indicates approaching bad weather and possibly severe storms. A remote pilot can use the same trend as a simple go/no-go signal during preflight planning.

STUDY TIP

Rising pressure, improving weather; falling pressure, deteriorating weather. The faster the fall, the more concern.

KEY POINTS

  • Pressure trends help forecasters track pressure systems.
  • Rising pressure generally indicates approaching fair weather.
  • Falling pressure usually indicates approaching bad weather, possibly severe storms.

SOURCES

  • remote_pilot_study_guide.txt ch3b "Measurement of Atmosphere Pressure"
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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.