Final answer:
Vortex avoidance on landing refers to maneuvers performed by aircraft to avoid encountering wake vortices generated by departing aircraft. Pilots follow specific separation procedures and alter their approach to ensure safety and prevent disturbances caused by turbulent airflow.
Step-by-step explanation:
Vortex avoidance on landing refers to the maneuver performed by an aircraft to avoid encountering the wake vortices generated by a departing aircraft. Wake vortices are powerful swirling air masses that can cause turbulence and pose a risk to other aircraft. To avoid these vortices, pilots typically follow specific separation procedures and perform certain maneuvers, such as altering their approach path or landing at a different runway.
The primary goal of vortex avoidance during landing is to ensure the safety of the aircraft and its occupants. By avoiding the wake vortices, the pilot can prevent any potential disturbances or upsets caused by turbulent airflow. This is especially important during the final stages of landing when the aircraft is in a lower altitude and more vulnerable to the effects of wake vortices.
For example, if an aircraft is landing behind another aircraft that has just taken off, the pilot may choose to extend their final approach path or delay their landing to allow for sufficient separation from the departing aircraft's wake vortices.