What action should a pilot take when encountering wake turbulence?

When a pilot encounters wake turbulence, increasing separation and maintaining a different flight path is crucial for ensuring safety. Wake turbulence is generated by larger aircraft, particularly during takeoff and landing phases, and poses a risk to smaller aircraft that might be following too closely behind.

By increasing separation, the pilot reduces the risk of being affected by the turbulent air left in the wake of the larger aircraft. Additionally, maintaining a different flight path can further mitigate the chances of encountering this turbulence. This strategy allows for more control, especially when considering that wake turbulence can cause sudden changes in altitude and attitude, which are particularly dangerous close to the ground.

Other options do not address the specific hazard of wake turbulence effectively. For instance, simply decreasing speed or ascending quickly might not sufficiently help in avoiding the turbulence. Changing the radio frequency does not directly relate to the handling of wake turbulence and does not enhance safety in this scenario. Therefore, the most effective action is to increase separation and alter the flight path, ensuring a safer flying environment.