What should you do if you encounter wake turbulence?

If you encounter wake turbulence, the best course of action is to avoid flying too closely behind another aircraft, particularly during critical phases of flight such as takeoff and landing. Wake turbulence is caused by the vortices that are generated at the wingtips of an aircraft, especially larger ones. These vortices can persist for several minutes and can pose serious risks to smaller aircraft.

Maintaining a safe distance from the aircraft ahead allows you to mitigate the risk of being affected by these turbulent air currents. This practice helps ensure stable airflow over your wings, preventing loss of control and potential accidents. The importance of this avoidance strategy is emphasized in pilot training and operational guidelines given the unpredictable nature of wake turbulence.

Other strategies like immediately descending or turning sharply can lead to unsafe situations or loss of altitude without a clear understanding of the surrounding air traffic. Continuing to fly without making changes disregards the potential hazards wake turbulence can introduce, which is contrary to safety protocols. It's crucial to remain vigilant and maintain adequate spacing from larger aircraft, especially in busy airspace, to ensure a safe flying experience.