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Singapore Airlines aircraft was the first reported fatality since 2011 due to Wind shear.

Wind Shear
[Ref: AOL]

About Wind Shear:

  • Wind shear refers to the change in wind speed and/or direction over a short distance in the atmosphere.
  • It can occur horizontally or vertically and is a critical factor in meteorology and aviation.
  • Types: There are two main types of wind shear: vertical and horizontal.
    • Vertical wind shear involves changes in wind speed or direction with altitude, while horizontal wind shear involves changes across a horizontal plane.
  • Causes:
    • Weather Fronts: Differences in temperature and pressure between weather fronts can create significant wind shear.
    • Thunderstorms: Updrafts and downdrafts within thunderstorms can produce severe vertical wind shear.
    • Jet Streams: Narrow bands of strong winds in the upper atmosphere, known as jet streams, can create horizontal wind shear.
  • Impacts on Aviation: Wind shear is particularly dangerous for aircraft during takeoff and landing, as it can lead to sudden changes in airspeed and direction, causing control difficulties.

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