What type of meteorological report is a METAR?

A METAR, or Aviation Routine Weather Report, is a standard format for reporting current weather conditions at an airport or aerodrome. It is issued at regular intervals—typically every hour—and provides crucial information for pilots and dispatchers regarding weather conditions essential for flight operations.

The format includes data about temperature, dew point, wind direction and speed, visibility, weather phenomena, and significant changes in conditions. This regular reporting allows aircraft operations to be conducted safely and efficiently by presenting a snapshot of current weather which directly impacts flight planning and safety.

In contrast, the other types of reports mentioned serve different purposes. A detailed weather forecast is more focused on predicting future weather conditions rather than reporting current conditions. Long-term climate analysis entails studying atmospheric conditions over extended periods, not relevant to immediate flight operations. A special weather alert is used to communicate specific weather events or anomalies but does not represent routine or regular weather data like a METAR does.