What is wake turbulence?

What is wake turbulence?

• A. Turbulence caused by weather conditions
• B. Turbulence that forms behind large aircraft
• C. Natural air movement around the aircraft
• D. Vibration caused by engine operation

Answer: (B)

Wake turbulence refers specifically to the disturbance in the atmosphere that occurs as a result of the passage of an aircraft, particularly larger ones. When an aircraft flies, it generates lift, and in doing so, it creates rotating vortices, or whirlwinds, that trail off from the wingtips. These vortices can persist in the air for some time and create turbulent conditions, especially hazardous for smaller aircraft following behind. Understanding wake turbulence is crucial for safely managing air traffic and ensuring proper separation distance between aircraft. This type of turbulence is not a product of external weather conditions, nor is it merely the result of the engine's operation. Instead, it is a direct consequence of the aircraft's aerodynamic properties and actions, making it a critical factor in aviation safety. The significance of wake turbulence emphasizes the need for pilots to be aware of their environment during take-off and landing phases, especially in busy airspace where large aircraft are present.

Wake turbulence refers specifically to the disturbance in the atmosphere that occurs as a result of the passage of an aircraft, particularly larger ones. When an aircraft flies, it generates lift, and in doing so, it creates rotating vortices, or whirlwinds, that trail off from the wingtips. These vortices can persist in the air for some time and create turbulent conditions, especially hazardous for smaller aircraft following behind.

Understanding wake turbulence is crucial for safely managing air traffic and ensuring proper separation distance between aircraft. This type of turbulence is not a product of external weather conditions, nor is it merely the result of the engine's operation. Instead, it is a direct consequence of the aircraft's aerodynamic properties and actions, making it a critical factor in aviation safety.

The significance of wake turbulence emphasizes the need for pilots to be aware of their environment during take-off and landing phases, especially in busy airspace where large aircraft are present.