What must pilots ensure regarding wake turbulence during a visual approach?

During a visual approach, pilots must prioritize maintaining adequate separation from preceding aircraft to manage the risks associated with wake turbulence. Wake turbulence is a significant hazard that is produced by all aircraft, especially large ones, and can lead to loss of control if an aircraft encounters it too closely behind another.

By ensuring sufficient separation, pilots can reduce the chances of being affected by the wake turbulence generated by the aircraft that took off or landed before them. This is particularly crucial when performing a visual approach, where visibility and spacing between aircraft can be more variable compared to instrument approaches.

Establishing a safe distance helps pilots maintain control and make safe landings or takeoffs, thus enhancing overall flight safety. Communication, while important, primarily centers around maintaining situational awareness and coordination with air traffic control rather than substituting the need for physical separation.