Which statement distinguishes a SPECI from a METAR?

• A. SPECI is a routine forecast product.
• B. SPECI is unscheduled and may include additional remarks beyond METAR.
• C. SPECI is identical to METAR.
• D. SPECI is used only for severe weather.

Answer: (B)

A SPECI is a special, unscheduled weather observation used to report notable changes that could affect flight operations. It isn’t a routine hourly report like METAR; it’s issued when conditions change significantly enough to require immediate dissemination. Because it’s meant to convey urgent information, a SPECI may include additional remarks beyond the standard METAR content to explain impacts or updates since the last observation.

That’s why the statement describing SPECI as unscheduled and able to include extra remarks beyond METAR is the best fit. It captures both the timing (unscheduled) and the potential for additional operational detail that METAR alone wouldn’t convey. The other options describe SPECI as routine, identical to METAR, or limited to severe weather, which aren’t accurate.