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Decoding a lightning remark in a METAR

Remote Pilot (Part 107) practice question 25 of 25 on Weather / Effects on Performance. ACS element UA.III.B.K1k · difficulty: standard. Want to answer it in a timed quiz? Use the Remote Pilot (Part 107) practice mode.

Question bank updated 2026-09-22

QUESTIONThe remarks section of a METAR contains the entry OCNL LTGICCG. What does this indicate?

  1. AOccasional lightning within the clouds only, with no ground strikes
  2. BOccasional lightning in the clouds and from cloud to ground
  3. CContinuous lightning from cloud to ground at the airport
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: B. Occasional lightning in the clouds and from cloud to ground

  • A — incorrect The remark includes cloud-to-ground lightning, which is a direct hazard to a small unmanned aircraft and its crew on the surface.
  • B — correct The study guide translates the remark OCNL LTGICCG as occasional lightning in the clouds and from cloud to ground.
  • C — incorrect OCNL means occasional, not continuous, and the remark covers in-cloud as well as cloud-to-ground lightning.

BACKGROUND

Thunderstorms produce damaging lightning, one of the hazards FAA guidance lists alongside large hailstones, tornadoes and large quantities of water. Lightning is reported in the remarks section of the aviation routine weather report (METAR), which carries information that does not fit in the body of the report. The study guide gives the example remark OCNL LTGICCG, meaning occasional lightning in the clouds and from cloud to ground. A remote pilot reading this remark knows that a thunderstorm with lightning is affecting the reporting station and should plan accordingly.

STUDY TIP

Learn the pieces: OCNL for occasional, LTG for lightning, IC for in cloud, CG for cloud to ground.

KEY POINTS

  • Lightning is one of the thunderstorm hazards named in FAA guidance.
  • Lightning appears in the METAR remarks section.
  • OCNL LTGICCG means occasional lightning in cloud and cloud to ground.

SOURCES

  • remote_pilot_study_guide.txt ch3a "Remarks" (OCNL LTGICCG example)
  • remote_pilot_study_guide.txt ch3b "Clouds"
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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.