Where is wind shear commonly found in flight?

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Wind shear is commonly found in various atmospheric conditions during flight, particularly in the lower altitudes up to about 3,000 feet and near jet streams. This phenomenon occurs when there is a significant change in wind speed or direction over a short distance, which can drastically affect aircraft performance, especially during critical phases of flight such as takeoff and landing.

Near jet streams, wind shear is prevalent due to the high-speed winds associated with these upper-level currents that can interact with slower-moving air masses below. The low-altitude environments, particularly around airports, are particularly susceptible to wind shear as terrain features and urban areas can cause changes in wind patterns.

While wind shear can occur at various altitudes, and can be influenced by time of day and weather conditions, the combination of proximity to jet streams and the characteristics of the lower altitudes make this the most accurate context for wind shear occurrence.

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