What is the sequence of an ATIS message?

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

Answer: (D)

ATIS messages start by naming the airport or facility, then the phonetic information code, and finally the time of the weather observation. This order immediately tells you exactly where the data apply, which version of the broadcast you’re listening to (Information Alpha, Bravo, etc.), and when that weather data were observed. The location at the front is essential so you know the scope of the reported conditions. The phonetic code next ensures you can distinguish between different ATIS data blocks, especially if updates occur or if multiple airports are in range. The time stamp at the end indicates the currency of the information, so you know whether you should seek a fresh update before taxiing, takeoff, or approach. Starting with the time or with date would be unclear or irrelevant to identifying the source and the current data.