Incident Overview
A Cessna 182 pilot, operating under visual flight rules (VFR), was instructed by the tower controller to expedite the approach and follow an MD-80 airliner on straight-in final. The pilot reported the MD-80 in sight at a distance of 2.3 to 3.6 nautical miles and complied with the instructions.
Wake Turbulence Encounter
On final approach, approximately 200 feet above ground level, the Cessna encountered wake turbulence from the MD-80. The pilot lost control, and the aircraft crashed.
Radar Data and Separation
Radar data indicated that the Cessna closed to approximately 0.9 miles behind the MD-80 and descended 200 feet below the MD-80's glide path. This deviation was contrary to wake turbulence avoidance guidance in the FAA's Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM).
Separation Requirements
A 4-mile minimum separation distance would have been required for radar separation, but no minimum distance was required for visual separation. The AIM states that controllers are required to apply minimum landing separation distances for wake turbulence, without distinguishing between visual and radar separation environments.
NTSB Recommendations
In February 1994, the NTSB issued recommendations to the FAA indicating a belief that VFR aircraft should observe instrument flight rules (IFR) wake turbulence separation distances.