How does temperature inversion affect aviation?

Temperature inversion occurs when a layer of warm air traps cooler air at the surface. This phenomenon can significantly affect aviation, particularly in terms of visibility and air quality. During a temperature inversion, pollutants emitted from vehicles, industries, or natural sources can become trapped in the cooler air below the warm layer, leading to an accumulation of smog or haze. This trapped layer of pollutants can degrade visibility, creating hazardous flying conditions, especially during takeoff and landing.

In contrast, a scenario where visibility is improved or where stable flying conditions are present does not typically occur during an inversion. Additionally, saying it has no effect on flying overlooks the significant impacts that pollution and visibility can have on flight safety and operational procedures. Therefore, recognizing the role of temperature inversions in trapping pollutants highlights a critical aspect of aviation weather that pilots and air traffic controllers must consider for safe flight operations.