Which of the following best describes the phenomenon of ground effect?

Ground effect is a phenomenon that occurs when an aircraft is flying close to a surface, such as the ground or water. When an aircraft is in this low-altitude flight, the flow of air under the wings is altered.

As the aircraft approaches the ground, there is a compression of air between the ground and the wings, which results in increased lift. This is due to the fact that the airflow is restricted, allowing for a more efficient lift generation as the wings experience a higher pressure below them and a lower pressure above. Another important aspect of ground effect is the reduction in induced drag. This drag tends to be lessened because the wing is operating in a more efficient air environment, largely due to the proximity to the ground.

Together, these changes contribute to better overall performance of the aircraft in terms of lift and drag, making low-altitude maneuvers more efficient. Thus, the correct answer thoroughly encapsulates these benefits, illustrating how the aircraft achieves improved lift and reduced drag while flying near the ground.