Which of the following is NOT a factor contributing to DVE?

The presence of cloud cover is not considered a direct factor contributing to Deteriorating Visual Environment (DVE). While cloud cover can obscure visibility, it does not create the ground-level obscuration that characterizes DVE situations. DVE is typically associated with environmental conditions that significantly reduce visibility and make navigation more challenging, often occurring in low-altitude flight operations.

In contrast, sea spray, heavy rain, and blowing dust all represent conditions that can significantly reduce visibility. Sea spray can create a mist that limits the pilot's ability to see both the horizon and the ground. Heavy rain can lead to poor visibility due to raindrops obstructing the pilot's view, as well as the potential for water accumulation on instruments and windshields. Blowing dust creates a hazard by significantly limiting visibility, particularly in arid regions or during specific weather patterns. These factors are all directly involved in creating DVE, whereas cloud cover typically denotes a higher altitude issue rather than impacting ground-level visibility directly.