How does humidity affect aviation?

Humidity plays a significant role in aviation, particularly in how it can lead to icing and low visibility. When humidity levels are high, water vapor in the atmosphere can condense into liquid water, leading to the formation of clouds and precipitation. This can cause various weather phenomena that have direct impacts on flight safety and performance.

One of the crucial implications of high humidity is the potential for icing on aircraft surfaces, particularly when flying through clouds or in precipitation. Ice accumulation can alter the airflow over wings, reducing lift and increasing drag, which negatively affects the aircraft's performance and safety. Furthermore, high humidity can exacerbate conditions such as fog, reducing visibility significantly. Low visibility can complicate both takeoff and landing procedures, as pilots rely on clear sightlines to navigate safely.

While humidity can affect aspects like fuel efficiency and overall aircraft performance, its immediate and critical influences in aviation are more closely tied to the risks associated with icing and visibility. Therefore, the selected answer highlights these key concerns, aligning with the operational considerations that pilots must account for during flight planning and execution.