What factor can significantly affect the safety of personnel during landings?

The presence of enemy threats in the vicinity is a critical factor affecting the safety of personnel during landings. In military operations, landings often occur in combat zones where enemy forces may be actively targeting aircraft or troops on the ground. The risk of hostile fire increases significantly when enemy threats are present, which can jeopardize not only the safety of the personnel disembarking but also the aircraft itself.

When planning a landing, it is essential to assess the threat level in the area thoroughly. The presence of enemy combatants can influence various tactical decisions, such as the selection of a landing zone, the timing of the operation, and the approach and departure routes of the aircraft. Understanding the threat environment enables commanders to implement additional safety measures such as tactical air support, deception maneuvers, or increased security around landing operations.

Other factors, while important, do not directly relate to immediate threats that could compromise safety during landings as significantly as enemy presence does.