CRJ-200 flight crew reported a track deviation occurred departing ORD when they encountered wake turbulence from the preceding B757.
Synopsis
CRJ-200 flight crew reported a track deviation occurred departing ORD when they encountered wake turbulence from the preceding B757.
Narrative
Prior to takeoff from Runway 28R/N5; ORD Tower gave a clearance to turn RIGHT heading 040. Takeoff clearance was acknowledged and takeoff roll was initiated. The aircraft departing ahead of us was a Boeing 757; which departed on the same exact path as we did. Our takeoff clearance was received as the 757 was ROTATING. Both pilots immediately recognized the wake turbulence hazard associated with a 757; especially when following so close. Right after takeoff at about 200 ft.; we encountered pretty strong wake which caused a rolling moment to the right. The PF (Pilot Flying) properly initiated a left turn to try to avoid the dangerous path. Upon stabilizing the airplane and returning to normal flight; we received a radio call from ATC stating that we were supposed to turn right; to which I replied: do you want us to go left or right? ATC responded with the word: ACTUALLY. Not being sure of what that meant; I asked them again; which way did they want us to turn. ATC then said 'turn right all the way 040 heading'. We then continued as planned and no further incident occurred.Two parts on this. Both pilots lost situational awareness as to what the initial clearance to turn was; due to being caught up in trying to avoid the wake turbulence. Also; the crew could have asked for a short delay on the runway; as soon as the threat was detected prior to takeoff. On the other hand; I'm not exactly sure what the minimum separation is when taking off behind a 757; but I feel like this take off clearance was rushed. Fatigue could also have (unknowingly) played a factor in this.
Second reporter narrative
[Report narrative contained no additional information.]
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Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.