Gulfstream V / G500 / G550
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Inflight Event / Encounter Wake Vortex Encounter
Flight Crew Regained Aircraft Control; Flight Crew Took Evasive Action
Environment - Non Weather Related; Procedure
We experienced a significant wake turbulence encounter during our initial descent into FRG. We were approaching the beginning of the LENDY6 arrival; which originates at LVZ VOR and terminates at LGA VOR. Our crossing restriction was JENNO at FL230; we had the autopilot coupled on the VNAV flight path descending through the mid 30's with the autothrottles maintaining 320 KIAS. We were showing a few targets on the TCAS; but nothing out of the ordinary.We were in and out of thin clouds; so weren't spending much time looking outside. We were preparing to brief the planned approach into FRG when the airplane rolled violently 45-55 degrees left. I immediately disabled the autopilot and applied full right roll input. At about that same time; the airplane pitched down and we experienced what we estimate to be slightly less than 0.5 G. I applied gentle backpressure to normalize the loading and was able to level the wings as well. The pilot monitoring (PM) reported the occurrence to ATC; who informed us that we were descending 10 NM in trail of a heavy Boeing 777. We located the traffic on the TCAS; which was about 1000 feet below us and descending. I looked up and was able to acquire the 777 visually. I reduced our rate of descent to gain separation from his flight path and the PM went in the back to make sure everyone was alright. All five passengers had been seated; and while they were shaken; there were no injuries. Many items in the galley were displaced; but there was no damage. We proceeded to FRG and landed uneventfully.I feel like there should be some enlightening summary here; but we were flying a typical leg on a typical day in typical airspace. My understanding is that we had more than the required separation behind the 777. Other than not flying into busy airspace; I don't know that there was much we could have done differently to avoid the encounter. While situational awareness is critical; it's impossible to avoid following directly behind other airplanes. We were fortunate that everyone in back was seated; and some coffee stains were the extent of the damage. I guess it's just a reminder to maintain vigilance on even the most routine legs.
G550 Captain reported encountering 'significant' wake turbulence in trail of a B777 on initial descent into FRG.