Wind shear can cause turbulence, rapid airspeed changes, and changes in climb rate.

• A. Turbulence only
• B. Rapid airspeed changes only
• C. All of the above
• D. No effect

Answer: (C)

Wind shear is a rapid change in wind speed and/or direction over a short distance, and that abrupt shift interacts with the aircraft’s motion in several ways. Turbulence occurs as the varying wind components create gusts and irregular air movement, making the airplane feel bumps and jolts. Rapid airspeed changes happen when the aircraft moves through layers with different wind speeds or directions, causing indicated airspeed to rise or fall quickly. Changes in climb rate arise from fluctuations in headwind or tailwind and vertical wind components that affect lift, thrust, and the aircraft’s energy state, leading to momentary climbs or descents. In many flight environments, wind shear accompanies convective activity, gust fronts, or jet streams, so these effects can occur together. Because wind shear can produce all of these effects, the best choice is the one that reflects all of the listed outcomes.