When should wake turbulence cautionary advisories be issued?

Wake turbulence cautionary advisories should indeed be issued for VFR aircraft not being radar vectored, but following larger aircraft. This is crucial because larger aircraft generate more substantial wake turbulence, which can pose a significant risk to smaller aircraft flying closely behind them, especially if they are not benefiting from radar separation.

The advisory serves to alert pilots of the potential hazards associated with wake turbulence, such as loss of control due to sudden changes in the aircraft's flight path. It is especially important when those smaller VFR aircraft are in the pattern or preparing for takeoff or landing shortly after a larger aircraft has departed or landed, as the turbulence can linger and affect their performance.

Other scenarios do not necessarily require the same level of cautionary advisory because the separation is either adequate or the risk factors—such as the weight of the aircraft or the direction of flight—do not create the same turbulence concerns. Issuing advisories in the correct situations helps ensure the safety of all aircraft operating in proximity to each other.