The Human-Covenant War was the downfall for the Skyhawk; although it scored many victories against invading Covenant forces, shooting down Phantom and Spirit dropships as they entered the atmosphere, enemy AA and escorting Seraphs could easily shoot down a squadron. Other reasons included the runways needed support them, which were long for a VTOL craft, the heavy cost of the equipment and the eventual replacement in its close air support role by the Hornet, Sparrowhawk, Falcon and the Vulture and it's interception role by the Longsword.