Private Pilot License (PPL) Aerodynamics Practice Exam

Which condition necessitates maximum caution to avoid wake turbulence when landing?

1. Strong headwind

2. Light quartering tailwind

3. Crosswind conditions

4. No wind conditions

The correct answer is: Light quartering tailwind

Wake turbulence is generated by an aircraft as it travels through the air, and it can pose a significant hazard to following aircraft, especially during landing and takeoff phases. One of the conditions that require heightened awareness regarding wake turbulence is light quartering tailwind. When an aircraft is landing in light quartering tailwind conditions, the wake turbulence produced by a preceding aircraft can drift towards the runway due to the influence of wind. This scenario is particularly dangerous because the following aircraft may inadvertently encounter the wake turbulence while in a critical phase of flight as it is approaching for landing. Unlike headwinds, which would generally keep the wake close to the ground behind the aircraft, a light quartering tailwind can carry the wake turbulence laterally across the final approach path. Understanding this concept is essential for maintaining safety in aviation operations. Pilots are trained to anticipate wake turbulence effects and to provide adequate spacing and altitude adjustments based on the preceding aircraft’s size and weight class, particularly when operating under conditions that can exacerbate wake turbulence effects, such as a light quartering tailwind.