Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 160; Flight Crew Type 9821
Deviation - Track / Heading All Types; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Clearance; Inflight Event / Encounter Wake Vortex Encounter
Air Traffic Control Issued New Clearance; Flight Crew Took Evasive Action
Procedure; Environment - Non Weather Related
Two wake turbulence [encounters]. One on initial climb following a [heavy] B777 on takeoff. Upon ascertaining we would be following a 777 in T/O sequence; I stated to the FO prior to taking the runway that I will only go ahead with ample separation. At throttle up we had approximately 12 miles behind the 777 ahead. On initial climb; after the turn to 236 degrees at approx. 5000-8000 we had several clear ripples of wake turbulence. Estimating the climb gradient of the preceding traffic we maximized the climb and adjusted the path (widening turn back to LAX VOR). Upon passing LAX VOR turning eastbound; as we climbed through approximately 20;000 feet; the preceding aircraft was approx. 2000 above our altitude and established 24-26 miles ahead of us. I stated again to the FO the possibility of wake; and at that second experienced SUBSTANTIAL wake turbulence. Not a rolling moment (yet) but a very strong buffeting and noticeable wake experience. We advised ATC we will be turning to offset from our current track due to the wake. For expediency I clicked off the autopilot and turned approximately 30 degrees to the right with ATC almost simultaneously agreeing and advising for the turn. I was more proactive than ATC. No conflict was stated by ATC; however his response to us was very drawn out; lengthy; and slow. We needed to change track behind the heavy ahead ASAP. Our action prevented any further disturbance. SCT was the controlling agency; between LAX and DAG VOR.
B757 Captain reported two wake vortex encounters in trail of a B777 departing LAX.