What effect does wind shear have on flight?

Wind shear refers to a rapid change in wind direction and speed at various altitudes and is particularly concerning during takeoff and landing phases of flight. The correct choice highlights the significant risk that wind shear poses to aircraft control in these critical phases.

During takeoff, if an aircraft encounters wind shear, it may experience a sudden loss of lift or a change in the angle of attack, making it difficult for pilots to maintain control. This can lead to a scenario where an aircraft may suddenly gain altitude and then drop, which could result in a dangerous situation if the pilots are unable to quickly respond. Similarly, during landing, wind shear can cause abrupt changes in descent rate and airspeed, leading to difficulty in keeping the aircraft stable on approach and potentially resulting in a hard landing or a missed approach.

The other options do not capture the essence of wind shear's impact on flight. For example, while turbulence may be a concern, wind shear does not stabilize aircraft. Additionally, wind shear does not have a direct relationship with fuel efficiency, as factors like altitude, airspeed, and engine performance play a more critical role. Lastly, the maximum landing weight is determined by structural limits of the aircraft and operational considerations, rather than influenced by wind shear directly. Therefore,