EMB-505 Captain reported encountering wake turbulence on approach into SLC.

Date: 2022-07 · Aircraft: EMB-505 / Phenom 300 · Phase: approach

Anomalies: inflight-event-encounter-loss-of-aircraft-control|inflight-event-encounter-wake-vortex-encounter

Synopsis

EMB-505 Captain reported encountering wake turbulence on approach into SLC.

Narrative

Acting as PIC (Pilot in Command) but Pilot-Not-Flying from the right seat training a newly typed pilot in the left seat we were on arrival into SLC Class B airport with the final Approach Controller getting vectored on a high downwind for a visual approach. I noticed on TCAS we were in trail of another aircraft by approximately 7 miles and same altitude. Out of nowhere the plane began an abrupt shuddering movement similar to speed brakes being deployed. I looked down to the speed brake switch to see why the PF (Pilot Flying) had extended speed brakes at a level altitude when suddenly the aircraft banked hard approximately 45 degrees to the right. I told the other pilot 'my aircraft' and disconnected the auto pilot while bringing the wings back level. No altitude was lost but I queried ATC if we had just passed under another aircraft when TCAS showed nothing. ATC responded with what we were already tracking and that there was a Boeing 737 or Airbus 320/321 in front of us by approximately 7 miles I advised we had just gone through their wake and entered a 45 degree bank. They asked if we would like to stay above them until landing and I responded 'affirmative.' After reengaging the autopilot I handed the controls back over to the PF and our final approach segment and landing commenced without further issue.Going forward I now realize how even with 7 miles of lateral separation the wake vortices from a much bigger aircraft in front can and will pose a threat. I will continue to be attentive of aircraft we are following and deny instructions by ATC if it appears our descent path is following behind another aircraft and instead we could ask to stay above them sooner as well as requesting to slow and create more lateral separation.

Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.