What is Wind Shear?

Wind shear refers to a sudden change in wind speed and/or direction over a relatively short distance in the atmosphere. This phenomenon can occur either vertically, with changes in altitude, or horizontally, across different locations. Wind shear can create hazardous conditions for aircraft, particularly during takeoff and landing phases, as it may lead to loss of control or sudden changes in lift. Understanding wind shear is crucial for pilots and drone operators, as it helps in assessing flight safety and making informed decisions regarding the operation of unmanned aircraft in varying environmental conditions.

Other options describe different aspects of wind behavior but do not accurately capture the specific definition of wind shear. A smooth change in wind direction or a gradual increase in wind speed does not reflect the sudden nature highlighted in the correct answer. Similarly, averaging wind speed at different altitudes pertains to general wind patterns rather than instantaneous changes that characterize wind shear.