Which factor does NOT affect the rate of climb?

The rate of climb of an aircraft is influenced by several factors, including thrust, weight, and wind direction. However, altitude does not directly affect the rate of climb in isolation; rather, it influences the performance characteristics of the aircraft.

As altitude increases, the air density decreases, which can affect engine performance and the lift generated by the wings. While the aircraft may operate differently at varying altitudes, the specific effect on the rate of climb depends more on the balance of the other factors like thrust and weight, rather than altitude itself being a direct influence.

Thrust determines how much upward force is available to overcome weight, while weight directly counteracts lift. Wind direction impacts the effective speed at which the aircraft can climb. However, once the aircraft is at a particular altitude, the rate of climb is primarily driven by these other factors rather than altitude alone.