What is the standard minimum radar separation when considering wake turbulence between aircraft on the same localiser course?

The standard minimum radar separation to account for wake turbulence between aircraft on the same localiser course is indeed 5 nautical miles. This distance is established to ensure safety and minimize the risk of wake turbulence encounters, particularly when dealing with larger aircraft that produce significant wake vortices.

Wake turbulence occurs when an aircraft generates lift, creating rotating air masses behind its wingtips. These vortices can linger in the air and pose a hazard to following aircraft, especially during takeoff and landing phases. The 5 nautical mile separation is specifically designed to mitigate this risk for aircraft operating on the same localiser course, allowing enough space for the following aircraft to avoid the turbulence created by the preceding one.

This standard is crucial for maintaining safe operational distances, especially in busy airspace where multiple aircraft are approaching and departing from the same runway. The use of 5 nautical miles as the radar separation also aligns with various regulatory and safety guidelines emphasized by aviation authorities to ensure the continued safety of aircraft in close proximity.