FAA Aircraft Dispatcher Practice Exam

What do the Valid Times indicate on a prog chart?

1. Duration of weather events

2. Validity of the forecast

3. Time intervals for data collection

4. Frequency of satellite images

The correct answer is: Validity of the forecast

Valid Times on a prog chart specify the period during which the forecast information is applicable. This means that the forecast reflects conditions that are expected to occur within that time frame. For example, if a prog chart indicates valid times from 1200Z to 1800Z, it means the weather conditions depicted on the chart are relevant for that specific duration. Understanding the validity of the forecast is crucial for flight planning and decision-making processes, as it allows dispatchers and pilots to assess whether the information is up-to-date and applicable to their specific flight times. In contrast, other options relate to different aspects of weather information but do not accurately capture what Valid Times represent.