Originally Posted by
DaveReidUK
Probably because when wake turbulence rules were introduced in the 1970s, there weren't vast numbers of aeroplanes around.
Though by then, there had already been fatalities as a result of encountering WT.
I generally accept what you say, Dave; but, I was vectoring plenty of a/c back then in pressurized environments (Aberdeen & Jersey - & others were doing the same at Heathrow & Gatwick) without the benefit of Wake Turbulence Sepn., & the regular separation was 3 nm (no WTS). I can’t remember any WT inspired incidents though. Maybe my memory is failing.