FAA Aircraft Dispatcher Practice Exam

What is the meaning of "high minimums" in terms of dispatch operations?

1. It applies to all airports regardless of weather.

2. It applies to pilots with certain experience restrictions.

3. It allows for lower than normal minimums at all times.

4. It specifically applies to airports with extended runways.

The correct answer is: It applies to pilots with certain experience restrictions.

In dispatch operations, "high minimums" refers to specific weather minimums that certain pilots must adhere to, primarily due to their lack of experience, particularly in a given aircraft type or operation. This is a safety requirement designed to ensure that pilots who may not yet have a robust track record meet stricter visibility and ceiling conditions to operate safely. When pilots have "high minimums," it often means that their capability to make an approach and landing is limited by these additional requirements, which could be due to their time in a specific aircraft or their overall flying experience. Thus, they are mandated to avoid specific weather conditions that might be acceptable for more experienced pilots. The other choices do not accurately reflect the definition of "high minimums." While some scenarios may apply to all airports or suggest lower minimums, those are not correct in the context of "high minimums," which specifically addresses pilot experience restrictions.