What is a potential risk of wake turbulence?

• A. It can cause sudden increases in altitude
• B. It can create a disturbance affecting the performance of following aircraft
• C. It only occurs during bad weather
• D. It has no impact on surrounding aircraft

Answer: (B)

Wake turbulence is a phenomenon created by the movement of large aircraft through the air, specifically due to the vortices generated by their wings. These vortices can lead to significant disturbances in the airflow behind the aircraft. When a smaller aircraft follows a larger one too closely, it can encounter these wake vortices, which may cause loss of control or unexpected changes in flight path.

The correct answer highlights that wake turbulence can indeed create a disturbance affecting the performance of following aircraft. This is particularly critical during takeoff and landing phases when aircraft are often in close proximity to one another. Pilots must be aware of the risks associated with wake turbulence and adhere to established safe separation distances to mitigate these hazards.

The other options might misrepresent the nature of wake turbulence. For instance, while sudden altitude increases could be a consequence of turbulence in general, it is not a direct or specific risk associated solely with wake turbulence. Similarly, wake turbulence can occur at any time, not just during inclement weather, and it absolutely does impact surrounding aircraft; it is a concern that air traffic controllers and pilots take seriously to ensure safety during operations.