What is expected if a reported visibility falls between two reportable values?

When a reported visibility falls between two reportable values, it is essential to prioritize safety and accuracy in weather reporting. The appropriate action is to record the lowest value. This practice is crucial because reporting a lower visibility offers a more conservative assessment of the conditions, which is vital for aviation safety.

In real-world scenarios, pilots and air traffic control rely on visibility reports to make informed decisions about flight operations. Reporting the lowest value ensures that safety precautions are taken, as it reflects the worst-case scenario for visibility conditions. This becomes particularly important in situations where marginal visibility can affect takeoff, landing, and overall flight safety.

Reporting the higher value or the average value could lead to an overly optimistic assessment of visibility, potentially compromising safety. Ignoring the observation is not an acceptable practice, as all visibility measurements contribute to a comprehensive understanding of current meteorological conditions. Therefore, collecting data accurately and adhering to the reporting standards helps maintain safety in aviation operations.