What is a consequence of wing-tip vortices during flight operations?

Wing-tip vortices are a result of the pressure differential created over the wings of an aircraft during flight, particularly at low speeds and high angles of attack, such as during takeoff and landing. These vortices can be quite powerful and pose a significant hazard to other aircraft that may encounter them.

The consequence referenced in the correct choice is the tendency for these vortices to sink into paths where other aircraft are taking off or landing, particularly those on a crossing runway. When an aircraft lifts off or lands, it generates wing-tip vortices, which can descend towards the ground and linger in the vicinity of runways. This means that if another aircraft is operating on a crossing runway, it could unknowingly enter an area with residual vortices, leading to potential loss of control or turbulence experience.

In contrast, while options that mention remaining in the touchdown area, drifting from nearby runways, or sinking into VFR paths discuss various aspects of flight operations, they do not accurately capture the specific danger that wing-tip vortices create during critical phases of flight like takeoff and landing. The correct choice highlights the immediate and direct impact these vortices can have on flight safety during those operations.