How is wind shear described based on its effect on airspeed?

Wind shear is a significant atmospheric phenomenon that can greatly influence an aircraft's performance during takeoff and landing. It refers to the rapid change in wind speed or direction over a short distance, which can affect the airspeed of an aircraft.

When describing wind shear based on its effect on airspeed, the terms "gain" and "loss" effectively capture the dynamic changes that pilots may experience. As an aircraft encounters wind shear, it may gain airspeed if it enters a region of rising wind or lose airspeed if the wind decreases suddenly or shifts direction unexpectedly. This concept is critical during critical phases of flight, particularly during approaches and departures, where pilots must manage airspeed accurately to maintain safe control of the aircraft.

Using "gain" and "loss" clearly conveys the consequences of wind shear on airspeed, making this choice the most appropriate and precise in describing how wind shear impacts an aircraft's performance.