What is the effect of a higher density altitude on aircraft performance?

At a higher density altitude, the performance of an aircraft is adversely affected primarily due to the decrease in air density. As density altitude increases, the amount of oxygen available decreases, which leads to a reduction in engine performance, propeller efficiency, and lift generated by the wings.

When air density is lower, the engine may produce less power because it relies on oxygen to combust fuel effectively. Additionally, the propeller becomes less efficient at generating thrust, and as a result, takeoff distances increase, climb rates decrease, and landing distances also elongate. The reduced lift efficacy means that the aircraft requires a longer distance to reach takeoff speed and may not climb as well once airborne.

The other options—like increased speed, increased lift, or improved fuel efficiency—do not align with the realities of flying at high density altitudes. As explained, reduced aircraft performance encapsulates all challenges faced in such conditions.