In which situations is "wake turbulence" most likely to be experienced by a smaller aircraft?

Wake turbulence is primarily a product of larger aircraft, and it is most commonly encountered during phases of flight where the aircraft is generating significant lift and drag. The conditions during landing and approach put smaller aircraft in the vicinity of larger aircraft that have just taken off or are landing, making it crucial for pilots to be aware of their surroundings.

When a larger aircraft is in the process of landing or taking off, it creates vortices from its wingtips. These vortices sink and travel behind the aircraft, creating areas of turbulence that can affect smaller aircraft following too closely. This is particularly dangerous during approach and landing, as smaller aircraft may not have the same performance capabilities to handle an unexpected loss of control or disturbance from wake turbulence.

During takeoff and climb, while wake turbulence is still a concern, the interaction with smaller aircraft is generally less frequent because larger aircraft are typically heavier and may not be immediately in the vicinity of others. Additionally, poor weather conditions may mask or complicate the recognition of wake turbulence but do not necessarily increase its likelihood relative to landing phases. In level cruising flight, the risk of encountering wake turbulence decreases significantly as aircraft are usually well separated by altitude and distance.

Therefore, landing and approach phases present the greatest risk for wake turbulence,