Wake turbulence reclassification and separation with induced power using the FAA aircraft characteristics database

Abstract

Purpose – The aim of this study is to reassess wake turbulence categorization (WTC) based on the calculation of induced power and to define separation minima grounded in established aircraft classifications during approach. This requires parameters such as aircraft mass, wingspan, approach speed, air density, and the Oswald factor. This approach is significantly more detailed than other metrics that consider only aircraft mass or a combination of mass and wingspan. --- Methodology – With the FAA Aircraft Characteristics Database, the necessary parameters for calculating induced power are accessible for 388 aircraft. This allows the definition of new thresholds for the HAW_WTC. Additionally, a first continuous separation formula was developed, derived from the structure of established separation charts by ICAO and Eurocontrol. --- Findings – Induced power can be derived also from the energy content of the vortex itself. Compared to ICAO and Eurocontrol schemes, the new wake turbulence classification offers a continuous, physics-based assessment of a specific aircraft's vortex generation potential. This continuous assessment enables aircraft-specific separation distances based on individual parameters for both the leader and follower aircraft. --- Research Limitations – Aircraft responses when flying directly through the vortex core or intersecting vortices at an angle are not considered in this study. --- Practical Implications – A physics-based wake turbulence categorization may offer more reliable assessments. Transitioning from generalized, fixed categories to a dynamic, real-time evaluation using live aircraft parameters could improve the efficiency and safety of flight operations. --- Originality – To date, no formula has been developed that allows for a continuous categorization and separation of aircraft during approach based on induced power. This work presents a first attempt to close that gap.