Term

CAVOK

Daniel MarkFounder & Editor, Aviatopia
Published Mar 1, 2026Updated Mar 1, 20261 min read

Ceiling and Visibility OK — a METAR/TAF abbreviation indicating visibility 10 km or more, no cloud below 5,000 ft or below the highest minimum sector altitude, and no significant weather.

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Quick Facts

Type
Weather Abbreviation
Also Known As
CAVOK
Used By
Pilots, ATC

Definition#

CAVOK (Ceiling And Visibility OK) is used in METAR and TAF reports when visibility is 10 kilometers or more, there are no clouds below 5,000 feet (or the highest minimum sector altitude, whichever is greater), no cumulonimbus, and no significant weather.

Why It Matters Operationally#

CAVOK simplifies reports and immediately communicates excellent flying conditions. Its presence means no weather-related restrictions apply to VFR or most IFR operations.

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