FAA Ground School Practice Test

In the presence of severe thunderstorm activity, what is a pilot advised to do?

1. Fly under the clouds

2. Avoid flying near radar systems

3. Maintain altitude and direction

4. Ascend above the storm tops

The correct answer is: Maintain altitude and direction

The recommendation for a pilot in the presence of severe thunderstorm activity is to maintain altitude and direction. This option emphasizes the importance of stability during turbulent conditions, allowing the pilot to avoid the unpredictable updrafts and downdrafts that often accompany thunderstorms. Maintaining altitude and direction can help the pilot stay on course while safely navigating around the hazardous weather. In severe thunderstorm conditions, sudden changes in wind speed and direction can occur, and it is crucial for pilots to avoid any abrupt maneuvers that can lead to loss of control. While ascending above the storm tops may seem like a safe option, it is not always achievable due to the height of severe storms, and it poses risks of encountering other atmospheric phenomena like clear air turbulence. Flying under the clouds might seem like a way to avoid severe conditions, but this can lead to flying in turbulent air or into areas where visibility is poor, increasing the likelihood of encountering dangerous weather conditions unexpectedly. Lastly, avoiding radar systems does not directly relate to safe flight procedures in the presence of thunderstorms and is generally not a relevant concern for pilots navigating severe weather. Thus, the advised action is to maintain altitude and direction to prioritize safety and effective navigation in thunderstorm-prone areas.