What is the final element of a METAR/SPECI report?

The final element of a METAR or SPECI report is the Remarks section. This section is designated for additional information that may not be included in the standard format of the report. It can provide details such as the presence of significant weather phenomena, special observations, or other remarks pertinent to the conditions at the aerodrome that can aid interpretation of the overall weather situation.

The Remarks section is particularly important because it can contain useful tidbits like whether certain operations at the airport might be affected, any recent changes in weather conditions, or other unique observations that may be of interest to pilots, meteorologists, and air traffic controllers. The information provided here is supplementary but can be crucial for understanding the current weather context beyond the primary elements of wind, temperature, and visibility.

In conclusion, recognizing the importance of the Remarks section helps anyone interpreting METAR or SPECI reports to fully understand the current aerodrome conditions and any potential weather-related implications for flight operations.