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Meaning of a SPECI report

Remote Pilot (Part 107) practice question 2 of 18 on Weather / Sources. ACS element UA.III.A.K1 · 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 surface observations, what is a SPECI?

  1. AA special report issued between routine METARs for rapidly changing weather
  2. BA routine observation transmitted on a fixed schedule regardless of conditions
  3. CA corrected report that replaces an earlier one containing an error
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A. A special report issued between routine METARs for rapidly changing weather

  • A — correct The study guide defines the SPECI as a special report that can be given at any time between routine METARs to update the observation for rapidly changing weather, aircraft mishaps, or other critical information.
  • B — incorrect A routine observation transmitted on a regular time interval is the routine METAR, not the SPECI.
  • C — incorrect A corrected report is identified by the modifier COR, not by the SPECI designation.

BACKGROUND

An Aviation Routine Weather Report (METAR) is an observation of current surface weather reported in a standard international format. METARs are issued on a regularly scheduled basis unless significant weather changes have occurred. There are two types of METAR reports: the routine METAR, transmitted on a regular time interval, and the aviation selected special report (SPECI). A SPECI can be issued at any time between routine reports to update the observation for rapidly changing weather conditions, aircraft mishaps, or other critical information.

STUDY TIP

Remember the pair: METAR is routine and scheduled, SPECI is special and unscheduled. Keep COR (corrected) and AUTO (automated) separate from both, since they are modifiers, not report types.

KEY POINTS

  • METAR is the routine surface observation issued on a regular schedule.
  • SPECI is a special report issued at any time for rapidly changing weather or critical information.
  • COR marks a corrected report; it is a modifier, not a report type.

SOURCES

  • remote_pilot_study_guide.txt, Chapter 3a "Aviation Routine Weather Report (METAR)", item 1 Type of report
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MORE ON WEATHER / SOURCES

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.