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Free PSTAR practice Wake Turbulence

Wake turbulence will be greatest when generated by an aeroplane which is

  1. Aheavy, landing configuration and slow speed.
  2. Bheavy, clean configuration and slow speed.Correct answer
  3. Clight, clean configuration and high speed.
  4. Dheavy, take-off configuration and slow speed.

Why this is the answer

Per TC AIM-AIR (Wake Turbulence), vortex strength is greatest when the generating aeroplane is heavy, clean, and slow — the high angle of attack at low speed in a clean configuration produces the strongest vortices. Flaps/gear actually weaken the wake slightly.

Reference

TC AIM-AIR – Wake Turbulence

Question reproduced verbatim from Transport Canada’s PSTAR Study and Reference Guide (TP 11919E). The answer key is Transport Canada’s; the explanation is ours.

A study aid — not a substitute for the official guide, the CARs, or your instructor.

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