PA.IV.K.R2dFAA-S-ACS-6C · Nov 2023Risk management
d. Wake turbulence
Effects of: d. Wake turbulence
Bottom line
An aircraft generates vortices from the moment it rotates on takeoff to touchdown, since trailing vortices are a by-product of wing lift. Prior to takeoff or touchdown pilots should note the rotation or touchdown point of the preceding aircraft. Pilots should fly at or above the preceding aircraft’s flight path, altering course as necessary to avoid the area directly behind and below the generating aircraft.
FAA references
- AFH ch. 5, Environmental Factors (p. 5-2) — FAA-H-8083-3C
- AIM 7-4-4 (Vortex Behavior) — AIM Basic 2/20/25 w/ Change 1 (8/7/25) & Change 2 (1/22/26)
- AIM 4-6-7 (Guidance on Wake Turbulence) — AIM Basic 2/20/25 w/ Change 1 (8/7/25) & Change 2 (1/22/26)
- PHAK ch. 5 (p. 5-9) — FAA-H-8083-25C (2023)
- AFH ch. 9 (p. 9-10) — FAA-H-8083-3C
- AIM 7-4-9 (Air Traffic Wake Turbulence Separations) — AIM Basic 2/20/25 w/ Change 1 (8/7/25) & Change 2 (1/22/26)
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