How often are METAR reports published?

METAR reports are typically published every 55 to 59 minutes, providing crucial real-time weather observations for airports and air traffic control. This timing ensures that pilots and other aviation professionals have access to nearly up-to-date information about weather conditions, which is vital for safety and operational planning. The hourly nature of these reports allows for sufficient frequency of updates without overwhelming users with constant changes. The standardization in the reporting frequency also ensures consistency across different locations and times, facilitating better communication and decision-making in aviation operations. This systematic approach is essential for maintaining safety standards in flight operations.