What does "CAVOK" denote in aviation weather reports?

"CAVOK" stands for "Ceiling And Visibility OK," which indicates favorable weather conditions at an airport or weather reporting area. When this term appears in aviation weather reports, it signifies that visibility is at least 10 kilometers, there are no significant weather phenomena affecting the area, and that the cloud base is above a certain height, usually 5,000 feet or more. This designation assures pilots that flying conditions are generally safe, with no low visibility or specific weather hazards present that could impact flight operations.

The term is particularly important for pilots as it provides clear information about conditions that are suitable for flying and does not require the presentation of additional weather complications. Such clarity is vital during pre-flight planning and in-flight navigation, allowing for efficient decision-making. Understanding CAVOK helps pilots maintain situational awareness regarding weather conditions, which is essential for safe aviation operations.