FAA Ground School Practice Test

Where does wind shear occur?

1. At high altitudes only

2. Near the surface only

3. At all altitudes, in all directions

4. Only in thunderstorms

The correct answer is: At all altitudes, in all directions

Wind shear refers to a sudden change in wind speed or direction over a short distance in the atmosphere. It can occur at any altitude and in various atmospheric conditions. While wind shear is often associated with weather phenomena such as thunderstorms, it is not exclusive to them. At high altitudes, wind shear can occur due to jet streams and other atmospheric layers, while near the surface, it is commonly caused by factors such as terrain, buildings, and temperature changes. Because it can exist in layers of the atmosphere at varying altitudes and directions, wind shear is recognized as a widespread phenomenon that pilots must be aware of throughout their flight operations. Understanding this helps in assessing risks associated with takeoff and landing as well as turbulence at cruising altitudes.