A380 Wake Turbulence Recommendations

The Airbus A380 Wake Vortex Steering Group recently issued new recommendations for A380 wake turbulence spacing. The group includes representatives from the FAA, JAA, Eurocontrol and Airbus. For a heavy aircraft following an A380 on approach and landing, add two nautical miles to the existing standard, for a total of six. Medium aircraft, add three, for a total of eight. And light aircraft, add four, for 10 total. Departure numbers are the same distance as approach/landing or for timed separation; heavy aircraft should wait two minutes, and medium and light aircraft three minutes.