What unit is commonly used to express visibility in aviation weather reports?

Visibility in aviation weather reports is commonly expressed in statute miles. This unit is widely used in the United States and is critical for pilots and aviation personnel when determining flight safety and operational conditions. The use of statute miles provides a clear and standardized measure that aligns with the distances typically referenced in aviation operations, enhancing communication and understanding among pilots and air traffic controllers.

Other units, such as feet, kilometers, and nautical miles, may be used for specific purposes or in different contexts but are not the primary standard for visibility reports in aviation. Statute miles allow for a practical understanding of how far one can see, which is essential for making informed decisions regarding takeoffs, landings, and overall flight safety in operations.