Formation Flying General Info

Question 1

Formation Lead Responsibilities

Answer 1

1. Perform smooth/consistent, stable, and predictable changes in power, heading, and altitude
2. Keept the flight within proper operational area and comply with local course rules
3. Keep the flight clear of clouds and other aircraft
4. Always know where Wing is
5. Execute the briefed formation sequence utilizing the proper visual and radio communications

Question 2

Wing Responsibilities

Answer 2

1. Keep Lead in sight and maintain flight path deconfliction
2. Maintain proper position
3. Comply with Lead’s signals and give a timely response
4. Provide mutual support (be prepared to assume Lead at anytime) and back up Lead with navigation and communication

Question 3

What does it mean if Wing is acute?

Answer 3

Wing is forward of the bearing line

Question 4

What does it mean if Wing is sucked?

Answer 4

Wing is aft of the bearing line

Question 5

What is closure?

Answer 5

The relative rate at which Wing is approaching Lead

Question 6

What is opening?

Answer 6

The relative rate at which Wing is receding from Lead

Question 7

If Wing is to the inside of Lead during a turn, what power change is required?

Answer 7

A power decrease

The radius inside of the turn is smaller so less power is needed

Question 8

If Wing is to the outside of Lead during a turn, what power change is required?

Answer 8

A power increase

The radius outside of the turn is larger so more power is needed

Question 9

What components are checked during an integrity check?

Answer 9

• Cowlings
• Panels
• Struts
• Tires
• Flaps
• Antennae
• Leaks
• Lights

C PST FALL

Question 10

When should Ops Checks be completed?

Answer 10

They should be initiated by LEAD

1. Before beginning the working area profile
2. After a Lead change
3. Before departing the working area

Question 11

When should an Underrun be executed?

Answer 11

1. Wing develops an excessive closure rate
2. Wing becomes excessively acute
3. Wing gets acute in close to Lead and is too close to make AOB corrections
4. Anytime Wing feels uncomfortable and judges an unsafe situation
5. Anytime directed by Formation Lead

Question 12

Wings Level Underrun Procedure

Answer 12

1. LOWER the nose to maintain step-down
2. Reduce PCL to IDLE
3. Increase LATERAL separation using ailerons
4. Call underrun on TAC freq when able
5. Maneuver as necessary to join in Parade

Lower > Idle > Lateral

Question 13

In a Turn Underrun Procedure

Answer 13

1. LOWER the nose to maintain step-down
2. LEVEL wings and move to a position outside of Lead’s radius of turn
3. Reduce PCL to IDLE
4. PASS BELOW AND BEHIND
5. Call underrun on TAC freq when able
6. Maneuver as necessary to join in VMC Turn Away Parade Position

Lower > Level > Idle > Below & Behind