Final answer:
The radar separation for a Light aircraft behind a Heavy aircraft is typically 5 nautical miles (nm) or more.
Step-by-step explanation:
This distance is established to ensure safe separation between the two aircraft and reduce the risk of collision.
Maintaining adequate radar separation is crucial for aviation safety. Here are a few key points to understand:
- 1) Weight and size: The weight and size of an aircraft can affect its wake turbulence, which is the disturbance caused by the movement of air generated by the aircraft. Heavier and larger aircraft tend to create stronger wake turbulence, requiring greater separation to ensure safety.
- 2) Radar separation: Radar separation refers to the distance maintained between aircraft on the radar display. It is used by air traffic controllers to monitor and manage the safe separation of aircraft in the airspace.
- 3) Safe separation: By maintaining a radar separation of about 5 nm or more between a Light aircraft and a Heavy aircraft, the risk of encountering the wake turbulence generated by the Heavy aircraft is minimized. This helps ensure the safety of both aircraft and allows pilots to have sufficient time and space to react to any unexpected situations.
It's important to note that specific separation requirements may vary depending on the aviation regulations and procedures of different countries and airspace systems. Nevertheless, maintaining adequate radar separation is essential for safe and efficient air travel.