What is the primary hazard associated with wake turbulence?

The primary hazard associated with wake turbulence is loss of control because of induced roll. Wake turbulence is created by the passage of an aircraft through the air and consists of the vortices trailing from the wings during flight. These vortices create a significant difference in airflow that can cause an aircraft flying in close proximity to experience sudden and unexpected rolling motions.

When a smaller aircraft encounters the wake turbulence from a larger aircraft that has just taken off or landed, it can be subjected to strong and unpredictable rolling moments. This can lead to a loss of control, especially if the smaller aircraft is at a critical phase of flight, such as takeoff or landing, when it is less capable of counteracting the induced roll. The effects of wake turbulence are particularly concerning near airports, where the spacing between aircraft can be tight.

While increased fuel consumption, difficulty in communication with air traffic control, and reduction in aircraft speed during takeoff can all be relevant factors in aviation operations, they are not directly associated with the hazards of wake turbulence. Hence, the focus on induced roll as a primary danger highlights the importance of maintaining safe distances between aircraft to prevent potential loss of control incidents due to wake turbulence.