Cloud heights are reported in which unit?

Cloud heights are reported in which unit?

• A. Above ground level
• B. Mean sea level
• C. Flight level
• D. Ground level

Answer: (A)

Cloud heights, specifically the height of the cloud base, are reported as feet above ground level. This means the measurement is taken from the surface up to the bottom of the cloud, not relative to mean sea level or to the aircraft’s flight level. Using above ground level (AGL) gives pilots a direct sense of how low the clouds are in the local environment, which is crucial for determining visibility, ceilings, and safe approach or departure decisions. In contrast, reporting relative to mean sea level or as a flight level serves other aviation purposes and isn’t how cloud base height is described.

Cloud heights, specifically the height of the cloud base, are reported as feet above ground level. This means the measurement is taken from the surface up to the bottom of the cloud, not relative to mean sea level or to the aircraft’s flight level. Using above ground level (AGL) gives pilots a direct sense of how low the clouds are in the local environment, which is crucial for determining visibility, ceilings, and safe approach or departure decisions. In contrast, reporting relative to mean sea level or as a flight level serves other aviation purposes and isn’t how cloud base height is described.