FAA Ground School Practice Test

Which weather phenomenon occurs when flying across a front?

1. Decrease in visibility

2. A change in wind direction

3. Increase in temperature

4. Decrease in altitude

The correct answer is: A change in wind direction

When flying across a front, a notable phenomenon that typically occurs is a change in wind direction. Fronts are boundaries between two different air masses, often characterized by distinct differences in temperature and humidity. As an aircraft crosses a front, it often encounters shifts in wind direction that result from the interaction between these contrasting air masses. This change can significantly affect flight operations, as pilots may experience variations in turbulence, altitude, and overall stability based on the strength and type of the front being crossed. Understanding and anticipating these wind changes is essential for safe navigation and can help pilots manage the aircraft efficiently during the transition. Other phenomena may also occur when crossing a front, such as visibility changes due to precipitation or differences in cloud cover, but the most direct and consistent indicator is the change in wind direction.