What is the impact of decreasing air density at high altitudes on fuel mixture?

At high altitudes, the decrease in air density results in a lower mass of air entering the engine. Since fuel is mixed with air to achieve optimal combustion, a reduction in air density means there is less air available for combustion with the same amount of fuel. As a result, the fuel-to-air ratio becomes skewed, effectively making the mixture “leaner.” A lean mixture contains less fuel relative to air, which can impact engine performance.

Operating on a lean mixture can lead to increased engine temperatures and a risk of detonation, which is why pilots must actively monitor and adjust the mixture settings when climbing to higher altitudes. Understanding this relationship is crucial for maintaining engine efficiency and safety during flight.