Chapter Three Section Departures

CHAPTER THREE

SECTION DEPARTURES

300. INTRODUCTION

The departure phase of flight consists of the following:

Running Rendezvous/Section Takeoff

Climb and Level-Off

Radio channel changes

Flight Fuel Check/Cruise Checklist

Transit to pre-briefed working area

The Wingman is responsible for maintaining flight integrity and backing up the Lead with

navigation and lookout.

301. TAKEOFF AND RUNNING RENDEZVOUS

One method used initially to join aircraft into a formation after takeoff is the running rendezvous.

If done properly, it is accomplished safely, expeditiously, and with maximum fuel economy.

The running rendezvous is a rendezvous in which all aircraft in a flight take off in order and

effect their join-up while the Lead is departing. Each aircraft must comply with prescribed

course rules or departure procedures.

1. The Lead will call for and receive clearance for takeoff for the entire flight using the

procedures outlined in Chapter 2 and local SOP. Make a mental note of the winds the tower

gives you in your takeoff clearance. When cleared, taxi on to the active runway using the

following criteria for aircraft placement (Figure 3-1):

If there is a crosswind, the Lead will take the downwind side. The wind will blow his

prop wash off the runway, causing no effect on the Wingman's takeoff roll.

If the wind is calm or straight down the runway, the Lead will position the airplane on

the outboard side of the runway.

SECTION DEPARTURES

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