Which statement is true concerning the hazards of hail?

The statement regarding hailstones being encountered in clear air several miles from a thunderstorm is accurate and reflects the complex dynamics of weather systems. Hail can indeed be carried away from the thunderstorm that generated it due to strong updrafts, which can transport the hailstones significant distances from the actual storm where they were formed.

This phenomenon typically occurs when the storm is particularly severe and has powerful updrafts that allow hail to be lifted higher and transported away before gravity finally brings it down. Pilots must be cautious not only in stormy areas but also in seemingly clear air, as hail can pose a serious threat to aircraft.

In contrast, while hailstones are commonly associated with thunderstorms, they are not exclusively found directly beneath them. Additionally, the idea that hail is harmless and does not affect flight is incorrect, as hail can cause significant damage to aircraft, especially to wings, windshields, and other critical components. Lastly, the formation of hail is not restricted to high altitudes; while it does form at higher levels within thunderstorms, it can be present in various altitudes under the right conditions.