When several layers are reported as broken, how is the ceiling determined?

In aviation weather reporting, when multiple layers of clouds are categorized as broken, the ceiling is determined by identifying the lowest layer among those classified as broken. The reason for this is that the ceiling in aviation terminology specifically refers to the height of the lowest layer of clouds that covers more than half of the sky.

This information is crucial for pilots and air traffic controllers as it affects visibility and flight operations. A higher broken cloud layer does not impact the operational ceiling if there is a lower broken layer present, because the critical factor for flight safety is the lowest point of cloud coverage.

Furthermore, understanding this standard helps in interpreting aviation weather reports accurately, ensuring that pilots have the necessary information to make informed decisions regarding take-offs, landings, and altitudinal adjustments during flight operations. The other options do not reflect the accepted standard for determining the ceiling in aviation weather observations.