What type of information does DME provide to pilots?

Distance Measuring Equipment (DME) provides pilots with precise distance information from the aircraft to a designated DME ground station. This range is measured in nautical miles, allowing pilots to determine how far they are from the VOR/DME station. This distance information is crucial for navigation, particularly during approaches, as it helps in understanding the aircraft's position in relation to waypoints and the surrounding airspace. Additionally, while DME does not directly measure ground speed, it can aid in calculating it when combined with time, making it essential for navigation and situational awareness.

In terms of the other options, current heading and altitude are provided by the aircraft's instruments, such as the magnetic compass and altimeter, rather than DME. Vertical speed and rate of climb are also measured through different instruments like the vertical speed indicator. Weather conditions and air traffic status are obtained through different resources, such as ATIS or air traffic control communications, not through DME.