Why do flying fish leap out of water?

Answer: Escaping underwater predators

Playing and having fun — Wrong. Leaping is energy-expensive and risky (birds can catch them). It's escape behavior, not recreation.

Escaping underwater predators ✓ — Correct! When chased by tuna, dolphins, or swordfish, flying fish burst through the surface at 35+ mph, spread their enlarged pectoral fins like wings, and glide up to 650 feet through the air! Predators can't follow. They 'taxi' on their tail to extend flights. Pure aerial escape!

Breathing air like dolphins — Wrong. Flying fish have gills and breathe underwater. They leap to escape predators, not to breathe air.