How does frost affect aircraft performance?

Frost affects aircraft performance primarily by disrupting the airflow over the wing. When frost forms on the wings and other surfaces of an aircraft, it creates an uneven surface that alters the smooth airflow required for optimal lift generation. This disruption can lead to a decrease in the aerodynamic efficiency of the wing, which may result in reduced lift and potential control issues during takeoff and flight.

The presence of frost can lead to a stall occurring at lower speeds and higher angles of attack than normal, which is particularly dangerous during critical phases of flight like takeoff and landing. Therefore, understanding the impact of frost on airflow is crucial for pilots to ensure safety and performance.

While factors like weight increase, lift enhancement, or engine efficiency impacts could theoretically occur under different contexts, they do not accurately describe the primary effects of frost on aircraft performance in this scenario. The critical issue remains the disruption of airflow that leads to compromised aerodynamic performance.