Aircraft Wake Turbulence
Aircraft wake turbulence — how wingtip vortices form, where they go, and the separation and technique to avoid them.
About this document
AC 90-23, Aircraft Wake Turbulence, explains the wingtip vortices every airplane trails and the hazard they pose to following aircraft. It covers how vortices are generated, how they move and sink, the ATC wake-separation standards, and the pilot techniques for avoiding wake turbulence on takeoff, landing, and en route — especially behind large and heavy aircraft.
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Take a free practice test →AC-90-23 is an official FAA publication in the public domain. We host a copy so you can read it in-browser; always confirm you are reading the current edition on faa.gov. The description above is an original summary and is a study aid, not a substitute for the document or the regulations.