What are the dangers of flying in a valley during TFO?

Flying in a valley during Terrain Flight Operations presents significant challenges primarily due to the risk of downdrafts and turbulence. Valleys can create complex wind patterns, as the topography influences airflow. As the wind flows down the valley, it can accelerate and become turbulent, leading to sudden and unpredictable changes in the aircraft’s altitude and control.

Downdrafts can be particularly hazardous, especially for low-altitude operations where maintaining control and altitude is critical. Pilots must be vigilant when flying in these environments, as the combination of turbulent air and the physical terrain can create a challenging flying scenario. This concern underscores the need for thorough situational awareness and understanding of local meteorological conditions when conducting operations in valleys.

In contrast, the other options suggest conditions that are either overly optimistic or not reflective of the inherent risks posed by the unique environmental factors present in valley flying.