Certified Flight Instructor - Flight Instructor Airplane Practice Exam

How often are ATIS broadcasts updated?

1. Only when visibility and ceiling change.

2. Every 30 minutes if weather conditions are below basic VFR.

3. Upon receipt of any official weather report.

4. Every hour regardless of weather conditions.

The correct answer is: Upon receipt of any official weather report.

ATIS, or Automatic Terminal Information Service, broadcasts are designed to provide pilots with essential information about airport conditions, including weather, runway usage, and other relevant updates. The correct understanding is that ATIS broadcasts are updated upon the receipt of any official weather report or when there is a significant change in conditions that could affect flight operations. This means that if new weather data is reported, the ATIS would be updated to keep pilots informed. While it's true that ATIS updates often occur under specific conditions, like when there is a significant weather change or operational information that pilots need, the general rule is the continual provision of real-time information based on official reports, which ensures pilots have the most current data available for safe flying decisions. This includes visibility, wind information, and any other factors that could influence flight. Other choices imply less frequent or condition-specific updates, which do not capture the range of circumstances that trigger an ATIS update. The emphasis on receiving official weather reports as the basis for updates is fundamental for operational safety and situational awareness in aviation.