Final answer:
The error message about the recovery server not being contacted appears during macOS reinstall because of internet issues, server downtime, or incorrect date and time settings.
Step-by-step explanation:
The message that the recovery server could not be contacted usually appears when reinstalling macOS on a Macbook Air if the computer is unable to reach Apple's servers. This can be due to a variety of reasons such as internet connectivity issues, Apple's servers being down, or the device's date and time settings being incorrect.
To resolve this issue, ensure that you have a stable internet connection. You can try connecting to a different Wi-Fi network or using an Ethernet connection if possible. Also, check to make sure that Apple's servers are not currently undergoing maintenance. You can do this by visiting Apple's System Status page. Lastly, verify that your Macbook Air's date and time are set correctly. Incorrect settings can prevent your computer from communicating with Apple's servers. You can set the date and time manually or by using a terminal command if the Settings menu is not accessible.
If troubleshooting does not resolve the issue, contacting Apple Support or visiting an Apple Store may be necessary for additional assistance.