Definition
The long-term average of weather conditions for a particular region, including temperature, precipitation, humidity, wind, and pressure patterns observed over many years.
Plain English
The typical weather a place gets over the long run, not what's happening today.
Context Anchor
Used in weather study, route planning, and discussions of regional flying conditions.
Derivation
From the Greek 'klima,' meaning 'slope' or 'inclination' — originally referring to the angle of the sun at different latitudes, which is what produces different weather patterns around the world.
Why Pilots Care
Climate helps pilots understand what conditions are common in an area, such as frequent fog, strong seasonal winds, or afternoon thunderstorms. It does not replace checking the current weather before a flight.
Grounding Statement
Climate is the long-term pattern; weather is what you must deal with on the flight today.
Intuition Check
Climate does not mean the current weather. It means the normal long-term weather pattern for a place.
Example Sentence 1
Pilots flying in a desert climate plan for high density altitude during summer afternoons.
Example Sentence 2
Aircraft destined for polar routes require special equipment suited to the local climate.