What should pilots be cautious of in relation to wind shear during take-off and landing?

Pilots should be particularly cautious of changes in climb-out and glide paths during take-off and landing due to the potential for wind shear. Wind shear refers to the sudden changes in wind speed or direction, which can occur at different altitudes and significantly impact aircraft performance.

During take-off, a strong headwind can aid in a quicker lift-off; however, if there is a sudden transition to a tailwind or a downdraft from wind shear, it can lead to a loss of lift, potentially causing a runway overrun. Similarly, during landing, if pilots encounter wind shear, they may experience a sudden increase in altitude followed by a rapid decrease, disrupting the planned approach and requiring immediate adjustments to maintain a safe glide path.

This makes it essential for pilots to recognize and respond to these variations in wind conditions to maintain control of the aircraft effectively. Understanding the impact of wind shear on climb and descent dynamics helps pilots make critical decisions to ensure safety during these critical phases of flight.