When should a pilot plan to become airborne to avoid wake turbulence from a large jet that has just landed?

In this scenario, a pilot should plan to become airborne past the point where the large jet touched down to effectively avoid wake turbulence. Wake turbulence is generated by an aircraft as it moves through the air and primarily occurs during takeoff and landing.

When a large jet lands, it creates vortices that descend and drift laterally from the aircraft. These vortices can pose a significant hazard to smaller aircraft flying in the vicinity, especially if they become airborne while too close to the landing jet's path. The turbulence can linger on the runway for several moments after the jet has touched down and can stay near the ground for a time before dissipating.

By taking off after the point of touchdown, the pilot ensures they are no longer in the vicinity of the wake turbulence generated by the jet. Timing the takeoff after the landing point allows the smaller aircraft to gain altitude quickly and steer clear of both the descending vortices and the potential turbulence which might be present close to the runway.

This strategy is crucial for enhancing safety during flight operations, emphasizing the importance of awareness regarding wake turbulence and its effects on aircraft of differing sizes.