When should a wake turbulence non-radar separation minima of 3 minutes be applied?

The application of a wake turbulence non-radar separation minima of 3 minutes is primarily concerned with the safe operation of lighter aircraft in relation to larger ones due to the wake turbulence generated by the latter. The correct scenario here is specific to light aircraft landing behind medium aircraft.

When a light aircraft is landing after a medium aircraft, the wake turbulence created as the medium aircraft passes can pose a significant hazard for the light aircraft. This hazard is due to the turbulent wake that may linger and affect the stability and control of the smaller aircraft as it approaches for landing. Even though the spacing between aircraft on approach is generally less than that for departures, the importance of ensuring that there is adequate separation time cannot be overstated.

Using a 3-minute minimum in this case allows for sufficient time for the turbulence to dissipate and enhances safety margins. This scenario is specifically highlighted in aviation guidelines to prevent incidents related to wake turbulence, which can cause loss of control during the critical phases of landing.

In contrast, while other options listed do involve situations where light aircraft are in proximity to medium or heavy aircraft, they do not specifically require the 3-minute separation minima in the same critical manner as light aircraft landing behind medium aircraft. For instance, taking off behind a medium