If there is thunderstorm activity in the vicinity of an airport at which you plan to land, which hazardous atmospheric phenomenon might be expected on the landing approach?

The presence of thunderstorms in the vicinity of an airport is closely associated with atmospheric instability, which can lead to various phenomena that impact aircraft performance during landing approaches. Wind-shear turbulence is particularly concerning in this context.

When flying near thunderstorms, changes in wind speed and direction can occur rapidly, creating turbulence that can have significant effects on an aircraft’s control and performance. This turbulence typically manifests as wind shear, a phenomenon where there are abrupt changes in wind velocity, particularly during descent and approach. The danger arises not only from the strength of the turbulence but also from the difficulty in detecting it prior to encountering it.

Understanding wind shear is crucial for pilots, as it can lead to sudden altitude changes and unexpected changes in airspeed. Recognizing this phenomenon while approaching a landing in the vicinity of thunderstorms prepares pilots to manage their approach more effectively, enhancing safety.

The other options present different types of atmospheric conditions, but they are not as directly linked to the immediate hazards posed by thunderstorms during landing. Precipitation static primarily concerns the effects of electrical discharge during rain, steady rain is expected but not hazardous like wind shear, and clear air turbulence usually occurs at higher altitudes and is not specifically associated with thunderstorms. Therefore, wind-shear turbulence is the