Wake Turbulence Categories
Every aircraft sheds wingtip vortices that can roll a following aircraft. ATC separates traffic by weight category; pilots add their own avoidance.
Weight categories (ICAO / FAA)
| Category | Maximum takeoff weight |
|---|---|
| Super | A380 and An-225 specifically |
| Heavy | 300,000 lb (136,000 kg) or more |
| Large | 41,000 – 300,000 lb |
| Small | Less than 41,000 lb (18,600 kg) |
Avoidance
- Vortices sink (~300–500 ft/min) and drift with the wind — stay above and upwind of the generating aircraft’s path.
- Landing behind a larger aircraft: stay at or above its glide path and touch down beyond its touchdown point.
- Departing behind a larger aircraft: rotate before its rotation point and climb above its flight path.
- Vortices are strongest when the generating aircraft is heavy, clean and slow.
Reference only — verify against the current FAA Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM) and regulations before flight. More quick reference.