CAA NZ PPL Meteorology case studies

CAA NZ PPL Meteorology · Put your knowledge to work in context.

The CAA NZ PPL Meteorology examination is the meteorology theory component that a candidate for a New Zealand Private Pilot Licence must satisfy alongside the other PPL theory subjects and flight training. It is intended for student pilots working toward a PPL, and for licence holders or overseas candidates who need to demonstrate New Zealand meteorology knowledge. The CAA NZ PPL Meteorology case studies are 5 cases and about 3,745 words.

Altimeter error across a pressure and temperature gradient: Christchurch to Queenstown

At 0900 NZST you plan a VFR flight in a Cessna 172 from Christchurch (NZCH, elevation 123 ft) to Queenstown (NZQN, elevation 1,171 ft), tracking via the Rakaia Gorge and Lindis Pass at 9,500 ft AMSL. Your sole altimeter is set to the Christchurch ATIS QNH of 1,002 hPa.

615 words, about 3 min 2

Nor'wester over the Main Divide: Queenstown to Milford Sound

You are planning a VFR crossing in a PA-28-161 from Queenstown (NZQN) to Milford Sound (NZMF) on a bright nor'wester day in spring. The graphical area forecast gives 320/40 kt at 10,000 ft, freezing level 8,000 ft, scattered lenticular cloud, and severe turbulence below 12,000 ft in the lee of the Main Divide.

761 words, about 4 min 3

Cumulonimbus on track: Ardmore to Tauranga

You are flying a Cessna 172 from Ardmore to Tauranga at 5,500 ft on a February afternoon, 1530 NZDT. On track ahead, a line of cumulonimbus has built along the Kaimai Range.

789 words, about 4 min 4

Fog at Palmerston North: TAF versus METAR

At 0610 in May you are airborne in a Cessna 172, 25 nm northeast of Palmerston North at 4,500 ft, on a VFR flight from Napier, in smooth air with a clear sky above and a shallow layer of low cloud visible ahead. The Palmerston North TAF issued at 0400 reads: 0400/0500 04005KT 9999 SCT030 BECMG 0500/0600 04008KT 6000 -RA BKN015 TEMPO 0500/0700 1500 BR BKN006.

777 words, about 4 min 5

Icing band on descent into Dunedin

In July you are flying a Cessna 172 from Christchurch to Dunedin, descending in VMC beneath a solid stratiform deck in continuous moderate rain. At 8,000 ft the outside air temperature is -3 C; at 6,000 ft it is 0 C; the surface at Dunedin is +5 C.

803 words, about 4 min