What hazard should pilots be particularly alert to when taking off or landing at airports with heavy aircraft?

When taking off or landing at airports frequented by heavy aircraft, pilots should be particularly alert to wingtip vortices and the associated turbulence. Wingtip vortices are rotating air masses that are generated at the tips of an aircraft’s wings as it generates lift. These vortices can remain in the air for some time, especially under certain atmospheric conditions.

Heavy aircraft produce stronger and more persistent vortices due to their larger mass and greater lift generation compared to smaller aircraft. As these vortices descend and spread out, they can pose significant turbulence hazards to following or nearby aircraft during takeoff and landing phases. Pilots must maintain proper spacing and be aware of the potential for turbulence that can cause loss of control, particularly when executing maneuvers close to the ground.

This is crucial for maintaining safety during critical phases of flight where full control of the aircraft is necessary, making awareness of wingtip vortices and associated turbulence vital for pilots operating in environments with heavy aircraft traffic. Understanding this hazard helps pilots to take preventive measures, such as ensuring adequate separation and adjusting flight paths when necessary.