EMB ERJ 145 ER/LR
Air Traffic Control Fully Certified
Air Traffic Control Time Certified In Pos 1 (yrs) 6
ATC Issue All Types; Inflight Event / Encounter Wake Vortex Encounter
General None Reported / Taken
Environment - Non Weather Related; Procedure
[EMB-145] was inbound. While level at 7;000 at 230 knots on the STAR [he] asked for an immediate descent. Once descended I asked [him] for the reason for descent request; and he reported severe turbulence. This seemed odd to have severe turbulence reported on a very active STAR with no other previous reports of any turbulence from other aircraft. I disseminated the PIREP and solicited more reports from other aircraft in the area. All other aircraft reported a smooth ride. I then realized the [EMB-145] was 5 miles in trail of a [B737-8 MAX]; who was on the same STAR at the same altitude. I suspect [the EMB-145] was actually experiencing wake turbulence behind the [B737-8 MAX].I'm unsure what kind of testing is done with these newer aircraft; but for an EMB-145 to experience severe turbulence being 5 miles in trail of a [B737-8 MAX] I'm concerned about this weight classification. I recommend further testing is done on the [B737-8 MAX] aircraft in terms of their weight class and the amount of wake they produce. If it is determined that these aircraft are creating significant wake turbulence to have an EMB-145 report severe turbulence while 5 miles in trail level flight at 230 knots; then I think reclassifying them as heavy aircraft may be necessary.
N90 TRACON Controller reported receiving reports of wake turbulence from an EMB-145 flight crew on arrival into LGA 5 miles in trail of a B737-8 MAX. Reporter expressed concern that the B737-8 MAX may have to be classified as a heavy jet for wake turbulence separation purposes.