Zenithaut (Aerilate)

Aerilate transforms all of the user's Normal-type moves into Flying-type moves while simultaneously boosting their power by 30%. This ability fundamentally changes how Pokemon like Mega Salamence and Mega Pinsir approach their movesets, converting typically neutral Normal-type attacks into STAB-boosted Flying-type moves. The power boost applies after the type conversion, meaning moves like Return or Double-Edge become significantly more threatening when backed by both the 1.3× Aerilate multiplier and the 1.5× same-type attack bonus.

The ability's competitive impact is substantial, particularly for Mega Salamence, which can turn moves like Return into devastating Flying-type attacks that benefit from its already impressive Attack stat. This creates interesting strategic decisions around moveset construction, as Pokemon with Aerilate must weigh the benefits of Normal-type moves that will be converted versus learning Flying-type moves naturally. The type conversion also means these moves will be resisted by Rock, Electric, and Steel types rather than only being resisted by Rock and Steel as Normal-type moves would be.

Since its introduction in Generation 6, Aerilate has remained mechanically consistent, though the in-game descriptions became more explicit about the power boost in later generations. The ability effectively grants these Mega Pokemon access to powerful Flying-type coverage while maintaining the reliable accuracy and effects of moves like Return or Hyper Voice.