FAA Aircraft Dispatcher Practice Exam

How often is a surface analysis chart issued?

1. Once a day

2. Every hour

3. Every 3 hours

4. Every 6 hours

The correct answer is: Every 3 hours

A surface analysis chart is designed to provide a snapshot of the weather conditions at the Earth's surface across a specific area. These charts capture essential meteorological information, including pressure systems, fronts, and other significant weather features. Because weather conditions can change rapidly, especially in terms of fronts and pressure systems, these charts are produced regularly to ensure that pilots and dispatchers have access to the most current information. Therefore, the issuance frequency of every 3 hours is ideal. This interval allows for regular updates that reflect changes in weather patterns, offering a reasonable balance between timeliness and the need for accurate, actionable information. This is particularly critical for flight planning and safety. Options that suggest daily or longer intervals would not be sufficient to capture the dynamic nature of weather developments essential for aviation operations.