What weather information sources should be consulted during flight planning for safety?

• A. Personal blogs
• B. Local weather
• C. Social media
• D. METAR/TAF, SIGMET/AIRMET, weather radar, satellite data, and official weather briefings from aviation authorities.

Answer: (D)

Weather information during flight planning must be authoritative, current, and tailored to aviation needs. METARs provide real-time surface conditions, while TAFs offer forecasted conditions for planning ahead. SIGMETs and AIRMETs warn about significant weather hazards that could affect safety, and weather radar and satellite data give you a current picture of precipitation, storm development, and cloud cover along your route. Official weather briefings from aviation authorities compile all of these elements into a single, standardized briefing, often including route-specific hazards, winds aloft, and pertinent notices. This combination gives a reliable, comprehensive view of expected conditions and risks for the planned flight.

Other sources like personal blogs, social media, or local weather reports are not reliable for aviation decisions due to potential inaccuracies, incompleteness, or lack of up-to-date, route-relevant information.