PLT353: Radar Summary Chart
What code PLT353 covers, why the FAA tests it, and how to study Radar Summary Chart before your checkride.
Recall Radar Summary Chart
What this means for your checkride
The radar summary chart is a weather product derived from the national radar network that graphically displays a summary of radar weather reports. You read it to see where precipitation echoes are located and their character across the region. It is a snapshot of observed radar returns, useful for spotting areas of active precipitation and convection.
The radar summary gives a regional picture of where precipitation and convective activity are occurring for route planning.
Treating it as real-time; the chart is a summary of prior radar reports and lags actual conditions.
Where to study it
A code on your test report is an area of deficiency. An authorized instructor must review it with you and endorse that review before you take the practical test, and the examiner may revisit it during the oral. Study it until you can explain it out loud, not just recognize the answer.