What does BKN/// represent on a METAR?

The notation "BKN///" on a METAR indicates a broken cloud layer. In aviation weather reporting, METAR is an acronym for Meteorological Aerodrome Report, which provides essential information about current weather conditions at an airport.

Specifically, "BKN" signifies that the cloud cover is broken—meaning 5/8 to 7/8 of the sky is covered by clouds. This information is crucial for pilots and dispatchers as it helps them understand visibility and weather conditions that could affect flight operations. The slashes that follow (///) indicate that no further data is provided for that particular parameter, which could mean that the specific height or type of cloud is either not reported or not applicable.

Understanding these abbreviations and their meanings is vital for safety in aviation, particularly for flight planning and approach procedures, making the identification of cloud cover types like "broken" essential knowledge for aviation professionals.