If you have spent much time operating in and out of the world’s largest and busiest airports, you have likely heard aircraft with callsigns such as Speedbird Four Heavy or Emirates 1 Super. The Heavy and Super classifications indicate the aircraft’s wake turbulence category and are used to determine the separation required between aircraft.

Wake turbulence is generated by every aircraft, but larger and heavier aircraft generally produce stronger wakes. The wake can remain behind the aircraft and move downwards and with the wind, meaning aircraft following behind can encounter it even after the aircraft that generated it has passed.

For pilots, wake turbulence is most important during takeoff and landing, where there is less altitude available to recover from its effects. When departing behind a significantly larger aircraft, ATC may apply additional separation before issuing a takeoff clearance. Pilots should also consider where the preceding aircraft rotated and avoid following directly through its departure path where practical. When landing behind a larger aircraft, pilots should aim to touch down beyond the preceding aircraft’s touchdown point, provided this remains within normal landing performance.

Wake turbulence should also be considered when operating a Heavy or Super aircraft. Other aircraft may require additional spacing behind you, while the size and engine power of the aircraft can also affect operations around taxiways, stands and holding points.

The exact use of Heavy and Super in radio calls can vary between regions, so pilots should follow the respective country’s rules. When filing your flight plan, ensure the correct wake turbulence category is selected for your aircraft.

Understanding how to anticipate and avoid wake turbulence helps make online flying safer, more realistic and more enjoyable for everyone on the network.