When cloud cover reaches what percentage does it become categorized as "broken"?

When determining cloud cover categories in aviation, the term "broken" refers specifically to cloud cover that fills a significant portion of the sky. It is defined as having between 5/8 and 7/8 of the sky obscured by clouds.

In this case, "broken" indicates that more than half of the sky is covered by clouds, but not so completely as to be categorized as "overcast," which is observed when 8/8 of the sky is clouded. Therefore, categorizing cloud coverage as broken begins at 5/8 but becomes firmly established at 7/8.

This means that when cloud cover reaches 7/8, it is categorized as broken because it aligns with the established aviation definitions of sky condition. Thus, recognizing cloud coverage helps in flight planning and maintaining safety during operations.