CRJ-900 flight crew reported encountering significant wake turbulence on descent into JFK in trail of a B777.
Synopsis
CRJ-900 flight crew reported encountering significant wake turbulence on descent into JFK in trail of a B777.
Narrative
While being vectored for approach into JFK; we encountered significant wake turbulence. We were behind a B777. We were descending from 4000 to 2000 ft. and slowing from 210 to 180 KIAS as per ATC instructions. I don't remember being told 'caution wake turbulence' by Approach. The event lasted a few seconds and the autopilot did not disconnect. I don't remember the exact parameters of pitch/bank/etc as it was very quick. I didn't tell ATC as right after the event we were cleared for the approach; so I just wanted to get on the ground as quickly and safely as possible. Every indication looked normal and we landed without further incident. After getting to the gate; I called Maintenance Control and wrote it up to be inspected since it was probably one of the more severe ones I had experienced. I also spoke to the Duty Pilot and debriefed with him. The front Flight Attendant advised me she hit her head against the galley wall while strapped in the jumpseat. I asked her if she was okay to continue multiple times and she said she was. After a plane swap; we flew the next flight back to ZZZ without incident. We were vectored too close to the heavy aircraft in front of us. [I suggest to] maintain more spacing with a heavy jet; whether through ATC directed spacing or us asking ATC for more spacing if we hear a heavy aircraft on frequency that we are following.
Second reporter narrative
Encountered wake from landing B777 on base to final turn into JFK. Approach did not warn of any wake turbulence; Tower did advise but it was after the event. Turbulence short but very abrupt. Not enough wake separation from NY approach for preceding B777.
NASA callback
Reporter stated the wake encounter was quite significant.
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Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.