What should pilots of aircraft with short wingspans do regarding wake turbulence produced by larger aircraft?

Pilots of aircraft with short wingspans must remain vigilant and respectful of wake turbulence hazards produced by larger aircraft. This is crucial because wake turbulence can have a significant effect on smaller aircraft due to their lower inertia and stability compared to larger aircraft.

Wake turbulence is essentially the disturbance in the atmosphere caused by the passage of an aircraft, particularly large ones, when they generate vortices from their wingtips. These vortices can be quite strong, especially during takeoff and landing phases, and can linger in the air for several minutes. For smaller aircraft, encountering these vortices can lead to loss of control, which could result in dangerous situations.

By being aware of the potential risks and actively monitoring for wake turbulence, pilots can implement safer operating practices, such as increasing their separation distance from larger aircraft and following specific procedures outlined for wake turbulence. These measures help mitigate the risks associated with turbulence and enhance the overall safety of flight operations.