What is the primary danger of wake turbulence?

Wake turbulence is primarily a concern because it can disrupt the airflow of following aircraft. This phenomenon occurs when an aircraft generates lift, creating vortices that trail behind it. These vortices are particularly potent and can linger in the air for some time after the aircraft has passed. When a smaller aircraft encounters this turbulent air, it can experience sudden and uncontrollable movements, resulting in challenges for the pilot to maintain control.

This is especially critical during takeoff and landing phases, where aircraft are in close proximity to one another. If a following aircraft does not adequately account for wake turbulence, it could lead to a dangerous situation, such as loss of control or even a stall. Understanding wake turbulence is essential for safe air traffic management and ensuring that aircraft maintain safe separation distances during flight operations.

The other options do not accurately represent the most pressing risks associated with wake turbulence. For example, while wake turbulence can lead to unexpected altitude adjustments, this is a result of the airflow disruption rather than a primary danger in itself. Additionally, the assertion that wake turbulence can cause engine failure is not a common risk; rather, it affects the aerodynamic stability of an aircraft. The claim that wake turbulence has no impact on flight safety is incorrect, as it poses significant risks to following