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Which METAR sky-cover code, at the lowest layer, establishes a ceiling?
Choices
FEW
FEW is a few clouds and does not constitute a ceiling.
SCT (scattered)
Scattered layers are not dense enough to be a ceiling.
✓ BKN (broken)correct
The lowest broken or overcast layer defines the ceiling.
CLR
CLR indicates clear skies, so there is no ceiling.
Why
A ceiling is the height of the lowest broken (BKN) or overcast (OVC) layer. FEW and SCT layers do not form a ceiling.
FAA source: AIM 7-1 / Aviation Weather Handbook FAA-H-8083-28browse the reference library →
This is taught in Reading METARs and TAFs — study the lessons free, then practice with grading and mastery tracking.
Original study question written for this course — representative of FAA knowledge-test topics, not an actual current FAA exam question.