What generates wake turbulence?

Answer

Wake turbulence occurs whenever an aircraft is producing lift. The pressure differential over the wing surface causes the roll-up of airflow at the wingtips, forming two counter-rotating cylindrical vortices trailing behind the aircraft.

AIM 7-4-1 / 7-4-2

Read the full regulation — AIM 7-4-1 / 7-4-2

7-4-1. General
a. Every aircraft generates wake turbulence while in flight. Wake turbulence is a function of an aircraft
producing lift, resulting in the formation of two counter-rotating vortices trailing behind the aircraft.
b. Wake turbulence from the generating aircraft can affect encountering aircraft due to the strength, duration,
and direction of the vortices. Wake turbulence can impose rolling moments exceeding the roll-control authority
of encountering aircraft, causing possible injury to occupants and damage to aircraft. Pilots should always be
aware of the possibility of a wake turbulence encounter when flying through the wake of another aircraft, and
adjust the flight path accordingly.

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