"David Reinhart" wrote in message
...

That's a contentious point that I don't know has been settled yet, though
I think the rulings so far are leaning the way you describe.

Since the ASOS/AWOS is usually not located at the end of a runway (I think
they try for a spot close to airport center) and airports are pretty large
pieces
of real estate, it's entirely possible for the system to be reporting
visibility
different from what the pilot is seeing from the air on approach. I think
what will certainly cause the FAA to jump on you is if an RVR is installed
for
the runway you used and it was reporting visibility less than minimums.


What's the point of contention? A SVFR clearance is issued on the basis of
weather conditions reported at the airport of intended landing/departure.
If the weather observation site is enveloped in fog while the rest of the
surface area is CAVU, then fixed-wing SVFR is not available. Flight
visibility doesn't come into play at all.