Plain English Meaning

Steps a pilot takes to stay out of the invisible spinning air left behind by bigger aircraft, which can be strong enough to upset or roll a smaller plane.

Full Definition

A set of recommended pilot techniques for taking off, landing, and maneuvering in a way that avoids the wingtip vortices (rotating air masses) trailing behind larger or heavier aircraft. These procedures include adjusting flight path, takeoff and landing points, and timing relative to the preceding aircraft to stay clear of the descending and cores.