In wake turbulence separation, what is the requirement for a medium aircraft behind a heavy aircraft?

In wake turbulence separation, what is the requirement for a medium aircraft behind a heavy aircraft?

• A. 4 miles
• B. 6 miles
• C. 3 miles
• D. 5 miles

Answer: (D)

In the context of air traffic control and wake turbulence separation, the standard separation requirement for a medium aircraft following a heavy aircraft is five miles. This distance is specified to ensure that the medium aircraft is adequately spaced from the wake turbulence generated by the heavy aircraft, which can create hazardous flight conditions if not properly accounted for. Heavy aircraft produce significant wake turbulence, particularly during takeoff and landing phases. This turbulence can persist in the air for several minutes and can impact a following aircraft, especially if that aircraft is smaller and less capable of handling turbulent conditions. The five-mile separation is designed to provide enough distance for the wake turbulence to dissipate, thereby enhancing safety during flight operations. The separation distances are established by aviation authorities and are based on empirical data and safety studies regarding wake turbulence. This safety protocol is an important part of air traffic management to prevent incidents related to wake turbulence encounters.

In the context of air traffic control and wake turbulence separation, the standard separation requirement for a medium aircraft following a heavy aircraft is five miles. This distance is specified to ensure that the medium aircraft is adequately spaced from the wake turbulence generated by the heavy aircraft, which can create hazardous flight conditions if not properly accounted for.

Heavy aircraft produce significant wake turbulence, particularly during takeoff and landing phases. This turbulence can persist in the air for several minutes and can impact a following aircraft, especially if that aircraft is smaller and less capable of handling turbulent conditions. The five-mile separation is designed to provide enough distance for the wake turbulence to dissipate, thereby enhancing safety during flight operations.

The separation distances are established by aviation authorities and are based on empirical data and safety studies regarding wake turbulence. This safety protocol is an important part of air traffic management to prevent incidents related to wake turbulence encounters.