What is the sequence of an ATIS message?

• A. Airport/facility name, time of weather sequence, and date
• B. Phonetic letter code, airport/facility name, and time of weather sequence
• C. Date, time of weather sequence, and airport/facility name/tower identification
• D. Airport/facility name, phonetic letter code, and time of weather sequence

Answer: (D)

ATIS messages deliver vital weather and operational information in a continuous broadcast, so pilots can quickly identify the source, the current version of the data, and when those data were valid. The sequence starts with the airport or facility name so you know the origin of the information. It is followed by the phonetic letter code, which designates the current ATIS version and the specific set of weather and notices included. Finally, the time of the weather sequence tells you when the latest observations and data were valid. This order—airport/facility name, phonetic letter code, and time of the weather sequence—lets you confirm you’re receiving the most recent briefing. The other options mix in elements like a date or tower identification that aren’t part of the standard ATIS sequence.