Wake Turbulence Detection and Economic Impact of Proposed Improvements

Increased separations of aircraft following heavy jets, which have been mandated because of the threat posed by aircraft trailing wake vortices, have aggravated the problem of air traffic delays at some of the busier airports. An extensive vortex measurement program at three major airports has provided the data base for the design of a Vortex Advisory System which will permit reduction of the vortex imposed separations under certain measurable wind conditions. This system which promises to effect an appreciable reduction in traffic delay is currently undergoing testing at Chicago's O'Hare International Airport.