SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/sport-wake-rotate-before

When taking off behind a larger aircraft, where should you rotate compared with its rotation point?

Before the larger aircraft's rotation point.

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  1. Before its rotation point ✔
  2. Exactly at its rotation point
  3. Well past its rotation point

Why: A large aircraft's wingtip vortices begin when it rotates. Noting where it lifted off and rotating before that point keeps you above where its wake starts.

Huh, didn't know that: After a larger aircraft's low approach, missed approach or touch-and-go, allow at least 2 minutes before your takeoff or landing.

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After the tower warned about debris on the runway, the airliner said they had already notified their caterers.
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References

Answer: Before its rotation point. A large aircraft's wingtip vortices begin when it rotates. Noting where it lifted off and rotating before that point keeps you above where its wake starts.

  1. FAA AIM 7-4-6, Vortex Avoidance Procedures www.faa.gov/air_traffic/publications/atpubs/aim_html/chap7_section_4.html
    rotate prior to the larger aircraft's rotation point
    Checked 2026-10-11.
  2. FAA AIM 7-4-6, Vortex Avoidance Procedures www.faa.gov/air_traffic/publications/atpubs/aim_html/chap7_section_4.html
    an interval of at least 2 minutes has elapsed before your takeoff or landing
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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