CTO CTO Wake Turbulence & Separation Standards

Question 1

Wake turbulence is primarily caused by which aerodynamic phenomenon?

Accepted Answer

Wing-tip vortices generated by lift

Answer

Wake turbulence is generated by wing-tip vortices, which form whenever an aircraft is producing lift.

Question 2

Under FAA Order 7110.65, which aircraft category requires the greatest wake turbulence separation when landing behind a Super (A380-class) aircraft?

Accepted Answer

Small

Answer

Small aircraft require the greatest relative separation distance (6 nautical miles on final) behind Super aircraft due to their vulnerability to wake vortices.

Question 3

Wake turbulence vortices from a departing aircraft tend to move in which direction relative to the runway centerline in calm wind conditions?

Accepted Answer

They sink and drift outward from the centerline

Answer

Wake vortices sink below and drift laterally outward from the flight path, which is why parallel runway separation is critical.

Question 4

A controller issues a wind report showing a 5-knot tailwind. How does this affect wake turbulence hazard for landing aircraft?

Accepted Answer

It pushes vortices back over the runway threshold, increasing risk

Answer

A tailwind can push vortices back toward the runway threshold area, increasing the hazard for arriving aircraft.

Question 5

The FAA wake turbulence category 'Heavy' applies to aircraft with a maximum certificated takeoff weight of at least how many pounds?

Accepted Answer

255,000 lbs

Answer

FAA Order 7110.65 defines 'Heavy' aircraft as those with a maximum certificated takeoff weight of 255,000 lbs or more.

(CTO) Air Traffic Control Tower Operator Certification Practice Test

(CTO) Air Traffic Control Tower Operator Certification Practice Test

CTO CTO Wake Turbulence & Separation Standards