Which terrain feature typically provides an indication of changes in elevation?

Depressions are terrain features that indicate a lower elevation compared to the surrounding landscape. They are characterized by their sunken appearance, which makes them visually distinct when examining maps or in-flight observations. Recognizing depressions is essential in terrain flight operations because they can influence flight paths and the safety of flights, particularly in mountainous or rugged areas.

The identification of depressions allows pilots to anticipate changes in elevation, as they represent areas where the ground dips down. Understanding how these features interact with the flight environment enables better navigation and situational awareness.

In contrast, while other terrain features like saddles, spurs, and draws also affect elevation changes, they typically represent transitions rather than distinct drops. Saddles are mid-elevation areas between two higher points, spurs are elevated protrusions from a ridge, and draws are narrow valleys or low points that lead through hills. These features may suggest elevation changes but do not inherently mark a drop in elevation like depressions do. Thus, the identification of depressions is crucial for accurately assessing the terrain's impact on flight paths.