What phenomenon is associated with ground effect in aviation?

Ground effect refers to the increased lift and reduced drag experienced by an aircraft when it is within a certain distance of the ground, typically within one wingspan's length. This phenomenon occurs because as the aircraft approaches the surface, the airflow around the wings is affected by the proximity to the ground. The ground disrupts the flow of air, which leads to an increase in pressure under the wing, resulting in a gain in lift. Concurrently, the turbulence and drag created by the wingtip vortices are also reduced, leading to a lower drag as the aircraft is situated closer to the ground.

This effect is particularly noticeable during takeoff and landing phases of flight, where pilots can benefit from required shorter distances for takeoff and landing due to the enhanced lift. Understanding ground effect is crucial for pilots when managing their aircraft's approach and departure profiles, as it plays a significant role in the aircraft's performance close to the surface.