What is the typical sink rate of wingtip vortices?

The typical sink rate of wingtip vortices is often in the range of 400-500 feet per minute. This significant descent rate is due to the nature of the vortices created by the wings of an aircraft, particularly larger aircraft. When an aircraft generates lift, it does so by creating a pressure differential between the upper and lower surfaces of the wings. This results in the formation of vortices at the wingtips, which rotate downwards and outward from the wing.

These wingtip vortices are powerful and can persist in the atmosphere for a considerable period after the aircraft has passed. As they descend, their sink rate can contribute to the turbulence experienced by trailing aircraft, especially if they are flying at lower altitudes or taking off and landing shortly after a larger aircraft. Understanding this typical sink rate is critical for pilots during approach and departure phases to maintain adequate separation and avoid the hazardous effects of wake turbulence.