Tip Vortex Wake Destabilization with and without Winglets

Wake vortices are an inevitable by-product of lift. Another airplane following too closely can be dangerously influenced by induced rolling moments. Consistent adherence to the prescribed safety margins ensures safe flight, however it also obstructs the capacity of large airports. To remedy the expected future capacity problems, research is being carried out world wide. This paper describes some results of the research work to decrease the hazard of the vortex wake accomplished at the ILR. (© 2006 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)