Module 2 - ATM - Wake Turbulence

Question 1

How can a controller avoid hazards caused by wake turbulence?

Answer 1

By applying enlarged separation to flights which have to be separated and issuing warnings to other flights.

Question 2

How far down do wake vortices descend and at what speed?

Answer 2

To around 900ft below the ACFTs flight path at a speed of ~400-500fpm.

Question 3

At what speed to wake vortices extend to either side of an ACFTs flight path?

Answer 3

~5kts

Question 4

When shall wake turbulence separation be applied?

Answer 4

When an ACFT is operating directly behind another ACFT at the same altitude or less than 1000ft below.

or

When an ACFT is crossing behind another ACFT at the same altitude or less than 1000ft below.

or

When both ACFT are using the same RWY or parallel RWYs separated by less than 760m.

Question 5

When shall wake turbulence separation not be applied?

Answer 5

When the pilot has stated that the preceding ACFT is in sight and they will ensure an appropriate distance is maintained.

or

When the pilot renounces enlarged separation.

or

If the area within which wake turbulence is expected will not be penetrated.