What does "OVC" represent in the context of TAF?

In the context of TAF, "OVC" stands for overcast skies. This term is used in aviation meteorology to describe a cloud cover condition where the sky is completely covered by clouds, typically at a height that may affect visibility and flight operations.

When the TAF indicates "OVC," it informs pilots and air traffic controllers that they can expect a uniform layer of clouds, which may have implications for takeoff and landing procedures, as well as potential weather-related challenges such as reduced visibility. Understanding this terminology helps aviation professionals assess weather conditions accurately for flight planning and safety.

Other terms, like "occasional clouds," refer to clouds that are not covering the entire sky or are present intermittently, which is not what "OVC" conveys. Similarly, terms like "overbearing conditions" or "open visibility" do not accurately describe the specific cloud coverage indicated by "OVC," further reinforcing why "overcast skies" is the correct interpretation.