Wind shear is particularly hazardous during which phases of flight?

Wind shear is particularly hazardous during the takeoff and landing phases of flight because these are critical moments when an aircraft is operating at low altitude and low speed. During takeoff, an aircraft is gaining speed and altitude, and any sudden changes in wind direction or speed can significantly affect lift and performance. Similarly, during landing, the aircraft is slowing down and adjusting its descent path; unexpected wind shifts can lead to loss of control, difficulty in maintaining the glide slope, or even undershooting or overshooting the runway.

Takeoff and landing are also phases where pilots have less margin for error. In contrast, en route and cruising involve higher altitudes and speeds, providing pilots more time to respond to and recover from adverse conditions. Holding and approach phases can be challenging, but they are less critical than the immediate control required during transitions to and from the ground. Climbing and descending can encounter wind shear, but the risks are most acute when the aircraft’s performance is most sensitive to altitude, speed, and environmental changes, making takeoff and landing the phases where wind shear presents the greatest danger.