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Airport operationsQuestion 229 of 934

A pilot departs behind a larger aircraft on the same runway. Which technique does AIM recommend?

  1. Rotate after the larger aircraft's rotation point and stay low
  2. Rotate before its rotation point and stay above its path
  3. Take off at once and turn below its flight path
  4. Rotate at the same point and climb straight behind it
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Correct answer: Rotate before its rotation point and stay above its path

Vortices begin at rotation. Rotating earlier and climbing above its path keeps the airplane above the wake.

Source: Aeronautical Information Manual (FAA, Basic with Change 3, 9 July 2026), AIM 7-4-6 Vortex Avoidance Procedures, page 611

Practice airport operations

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026