Regional Jet 700 ER/LR (CRJ700)
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Inflight Event / Encounter Loss Of Aircraft Control; Inflight Event / Encounter Wake Vortex Encounter
Flight Crew Regained Aircraft Control
Environment - Non Weather Related; Procedure
Taking off just behind an Airbus 319; we encountered severe wake turbulence on the initial climb out around 1;700-2;200 feet MSL. With the autopilot engaged; I could not maintain control of the aircraft as it entered a steep right bank of about 30 degrees. I was able to get the airplane under control after disengaging the autopilot and hand flying to keep the wings level until we were clear of the wake. I then briefly talked to ATC; who assured me the separation was legal. In my opinion; the calm weather conditions and busy departures in Charlotte added to the severity of the wake turbulence. At the time; Charlotte was experiencing light winds though I do not recall the exact direction. It was enough for my first officer; who has 20 years of experience; to proclaim it was his worst wake turbulence encounter to date.
CRJ-700 First Officer reported encountering 'severe' wake turbulence after takeoff from CLT in trail of an A319.