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Conditions associated with low-level wind shear

Remote Pilot (Part 107) practice question 12 of 25 on Weather / Effects on Performance. ACS element UA.III.B.K1b · difficulty: recall. Want to answer it in a timed quiz? Use the Remote Pilot (Part 107) practice mode.

Question bank updated 2026-09-22

QUESTIONLow-level wind shear is commonly associated with

  1. Atemperature inversions
  2. Bstable air with stratiform clouds
  3. Clight and variable surface winds
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A. temperature inversions

  • A — correct The study guide lists passing frontal systems, thunderstorms, temperature inversions and strong upper-level winds as the common sources of low-level wind shear.
  • B — incorrect Stable air with stratiform clouds is characterized by smooth air and is not named as a source of low-level wind shear.
  • C — incorrect Wind shear is a sudden, drastic change in wind; light and variable surface winds are not one of the listed associations.

BACKGROUND

Wind shear is a sudden, drastic change in wind speed and/or direction over a very small area. It can subject an aircraft to violent updrafts and downdrafts and to abrupt changes in horizontal movement. Wind shear can occur at any altitude, but low-level wind shear is especially hazardous because the aircraft is close to the ground. Low-level wind shear is commonly associated with passing frontal systems, thunderstorms, temperature inversions and strong upper-level winds greater than 25 knots.

STUDY TIP

Learn the four associations as a set: fronts, thunderstorms, inversions and strong winds aloft above 25 knots.

KEY POINTS

  • Wind shear is a sudden, drastic change in wind speed or direction over a small area.
  • Low-level wind shear is dangerous because of the proximity to the ground.
  • Common sources: frontal systems, thunderstorms, temperature inversions, upper winds above 25 knots.

SOURCES

  • remote_pilot_study_guide.txt ch3b "Low-Level Wind Shear"
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SkyDrill is not affiliated with the FAA. This is an original practice item based on 14 CFR part 107, 14 CFR part 89, and the FAA Remote Pilot – Small UAS Study Guide (FAA-G-8082-22). Regulations and handbooks are revised; confirm details against the current edition.