PHAK · Chapter 5: Aerodynamics of Flight
FAA · Retrieved 2026-09-05
Educational reference; original Owl summariesFLIGHT DYNAMICS
Wake turbulence
FLIGHT SCIENCE / CONCEPT REFERENCE
SCIENCEConditions & principles
Rotating airflow left behind a lifting aircraft can disturb a following aircraft.
REFERENCE COVERAGE3 / 3 editorial sections
PROVENANCE1 linked source
LAST RETRIEVED2026-09-05
Editorial section coverage describes the article structure, not scientific validation or completeness.
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Source editions
PHAK · Chapter 5: Aerodynamics of Flight ↗Edition / snapshot: FAA-H-8083-25C, 2023Retrieved: 2026-09-05
Retrieval dates record when Owl obtained the data; they are not publication dates or proof that a specification is current. Where the edition contains only a snapshot date, the original publication date is not recorded.
01
Mechanism
Pressure differences across a finite wing produce a trailing vortex system. Wake strength depends on lift, span, speed and atmospheric conditions.
02
Aircraft response
A following aircraft may encounter rolling moments and vertical airflow that challenge control authority. Vortices drift with the wind and evolve over time.
03
Context & interpretation
Visible contrails are not the same as the wake vortex hazard. Required separation and avoidance procedures depend on the applicable operational rules.
Sources & context
Educational explanation of physical mechanisms. Aircraft-specific procedures, limitations and current weather information are separate references.