EMB ERJ 170/175 ER/LR
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP); Flight Crew Multiengine; Flight Crew Instrument
Situational Awareness; Confusion
ATC Issue All Types; Deviation - Altitude Excursion From Assigned Altitude; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Clearance; Inflight Event / Encounter Wake Vortex Encounter
General None Reported / Taken
Procedure; Human Factors; Environment - Non Weather Related
We were on approach vectors for Runway 4L at JFK in visual clear conditions. The Approach Controller notified us of a heavy aircraft on approach for 4R. Our vector would place us in a position to cross the wake of the heavy aircraft. Unfortunately I cannot remember specifically what our approach clearance was however I believe that we descended into the wake remnant area of the heavy aircraft. I don't recall encountering wake turbulence but I do know we were advised of the possibility. Unfortunately I do not recall the approach clearance specifics but it is possible that I read back acceptance of a clearance that did not involve an altitude clearance limit and thus violated that limit.
E170 flight crew member reported a wake turbulence encounter and a possible excursion from cleared altitude on arrival into JFK.