EMB-175 flight crew reported slowing below assigned speed on approach to DFW in an effort to minimize the wake turbulence they were experiencing.
Synopsis
EMB-175 flight crew reported slowing below assigned speed on approach to DFW in an effort to minimize the wake turbulence they were experiencing.
Narrative
Notified of possible pilot deviation from approach. We were assigned 170 knots until the final approach for Runway 36L. We slowed a couple miles early because we were getting closer and closer to the aircraft ahead of us. The closer we got the worse the wake was getting and it was making a safe and stabilized approach more difficult to maintain. We did not however appropriately communicate that with Approach. We called the number and discussed the deviation with Center after landing. We discussed the importance of communication and I was told no further action was needed. I know we should have alerted Center to the wake and our intentions and will correct this mistake on future flights. While I acted out of safety for wake avoidance; I did not appropriately consider traffic following me and announce my intentions and needs.Cause: Slowed below assigned speed a few (approximately 3) miles early due to wake turbulence. Improper communication about wake turbulence and needed speed reduction or possibility go-around for spacing with ATC.Suggestions: Need to maintain clearer communication with ATC; especially during these congested times with airport construction going on.
Second reporter narrative
While on the approach for 36L we were given 170 knots until FAF. Captain started slowing down about 2.5 miles ahead of FAF to Vap. The entire approach and part of arrival we were experiencing heavier than normal wake turbulence from aircraft in front of us. While initially maintaining 170 knots we were gaining on the aircraft in front of us and experiencing deteriorating conditions due to wake turbulence. About a mile or two from FAF we were in contact with Tower and they asked what our airspeed was. I advised our airspeed and Tower didn't say anything else. After landing and getting clear of runway with initial taxi instructions from Tower he advised us Approach wants us to give them a call and to advise when ready to copy number. After copying number we proceeded to gate as planned. At gate and after shutdown Captain called the number and talked to Approach. Captain advised me that no further action was needed after talking with them and explaining our situation and what we should have done to correct the issue while it was happening.Cause: We slowed down too early due to conditions deteriorating from wake turbulence as well as us gaining on aircraft in front of us. We didn't let ATC know our intentions which was our biggest issue. We also felt that we were getting too close to the aircraft in front of us and wanted some extra time and distance.Suggestions: I learned from this situation to advise ATC of all intentions and to advise them of deteriorating ride condition's due to wake turbulence. Would also be appreciated for us if they would give us an extra mile in spacing between aircraft.
NASA callback
Reporter stated his company has increased emphasis on stabilized approaches; and the wake turbulence was making it difficult to maintain stability.
Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.