FAA Ground School Practice Test

What are the weather conditions reported for Wink, Texas (KINK)?

1. 120 degrees at 10 knots

2. 110 degrees at 12 knots, gusts 18 knots

3. 90 degrees at 15 knots, gusts 20 knots

4. 100 degrees at 8 knots, no gusts

The correct answer is: 110 degrees at 12 knots, gusts 18 knots

The choice indicating 110 degrees at 12 knots with gusts up to 18 knots is correct because it reflects a situation where the temperature is significantly high, which is typical for Wink, Texas, particularly during the summer months. The presence of wind at 12 knots, along with gusts, suggests variability in wind speed, which is common in hot weather conditions, enhancing the likelihood of turbulence. Furthermore, the gusts of 18 knots indicate sudden increases in wind speed, which can lead to changes in flight dynamics and necessitate pilot awareness and adaptation. This combination of high temperature and windy conditions is crucial for pilots to understand, as it can affect aircraft performance, including climb rates, fuel consumption, and overall flight safety. In contrast, the other options present different temperatures and wind conditions that may not be as representative of typical weather scenarios for that region or fail to align with the description of severe thermal conditions combined with gusty winds. Understanding the implications of temperature and wind on flight operations is essential, making the selected answer particularly relevant for pilots operating in high-temperature environments.