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Wake Turbulence

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Wingtip Vortices

Wake turbulence is caused primarily by wingtip vortices, which are strongest when the generating aircraft is heavy, clean and slow. Vortices sink about 300–500 feet per minute and drift with the wind; a light quartering tailwind is the most hazardous condition.

Source FAA Aeronautical Information Manual · checked 2026-08-25

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