What is wind shear, where is it most dangerous, and how can pilots mitigate it?

• A. A rapid change in wind speed/direction with height; dangerous near convective activity and frontal zones; mitigate by avoidance, appropriate airspeed, and ATC advisories.
• B. A gradual wind change; not dangerous; mitigate by reducing power.
• C. Wind shear only at sea level; mitigate by altitude changes.
• D. Wind shear is a myth.

Answer: (A)

Wind shear is a rapid change in wind speed and/or direction with height (or along the flight path) that abruptly alters the airflow over the aircraft. It’s most dangerous near convective activity, such as thunderstorms, and in frontal zones where gust fronts and downbursts create sharp wind gradients. This sudden shift can cause the airplane to lose or gain airspeed and change its angle of attack unexpectedly, which is especially risky during takeoff and landing when you’re near stall margins. To mitigate, avoid known shear areas whenever possible by planning routes with weather information and ATC advisories, use appropriate airspeed to maintain energy and margins, and follow published procedures or ATC instructions if shear is encountered, including possible rerouting or a go-around.