When a pilot is ready for an intersection takeoff and his/her request for takeoff includes a request to deviate from the 3-minute interval, you must ___.

• A. deny the request
• B. issue a wake turbulence advisory before clearing the aircraft for takeoff
• C. hold for 5 minutes
• D. issue clearance for takeoff without advisory

Answer: (B)

Wake turbulence is the safety factor here. The 3-minute interval between departures is used to reduce the risk from wake vortices left by the preceding aircraft. If a pilot requests to deviate from that interval, you must ensure they’re aware of the potential wake turbulence hazard before granting clearance. Issuing a wake turbulence advisory before clearing for takeoff communicates the risk and helps the pilot assess whether it’s safe to proceed or whether additional spacing is needed. Denying the request isn’t the automatic step, and holding longer or clearing without any advisory would skip an important safety notice. This advisory ensures pilots have the information they need to make a safe decision.