How far should a light aircraft maintain separation when positioned behind a medium aircraft?

When a light aircraft is positioned behind a medium aircraft, maintaining appropriate separation is critical for safety. The recommended separation distance in this context is 4 miles. This distance is established to mitigate the risks associated with wake turbulence, which can be particularly impactful when a smaller aircraft follows a larger one.

Medium aircraft generate a significant amount of wake turbulence due to their weight, speed, and wingspan. Light aircraft, being smaller and lighter, are more susceptible to the effects of this turbulence, which may include sudden changes in altitude or loss of control if the separation is not adequate.

The rationale behind specifically designating a 4-mile separation is grounded in safety studies and operational guidelines, aimed at ensuring that the lighter aircraft can operate safely, avoiding potential hazardous effects from the wake of the medium aircraft. Therefore, adhering to the established 4-mile separation helps to ensure a smoother and safer flight experience for all involved.