Climb and Level-off

CHAPTER THREE

T-6A FORMATION

will return the thumbs-up, acknowledging the same. Students will continue to monitor position

and instruments paying particular attention to airspeed during this phase of flight (Lead aircraft

should be below 140 KIAS as a technique to ensure Wingman will be less than 150 KIAS).

Restrictions. The following conditions will be met to accomplish a section takeoff:

The maximum crosswind component is 10 knots for a dry runway and 5 knots for a

wet runway.

The flight must have non-precision circling minimums or 1000 and 3 (basic VFR) if

no non-precision approach is available.

No standing water on the runway.

303. CLIMB AND LEVEL-OFF

When the flight is joined and course rules permit, the climb may be continued.

The Lead will wait until the Wingman is in position and the landing gear is confirmed up

prior to initiating a fuel check. Afterward, the Wingman should be given the signal for the cruise

position to transit to the working area for the advantages discussed in Section 408. If IFR,

comply with all ATC departure instructions. If VFR, several factors should be considered in

choosing a base altitude and course to include remaining in Visual Meteorological Conditions

(VMC). After level-off, the Lead will establish a base airspeed of 200 KIAS. This will be the

base airspeed for the flight unless otherwise briefed.

2. If Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC) are encountered, the Wingman should close

towards the parade position in order to maintain sight of the Lead. The student will continue to

clear the airspace and back the pilot up on the instruments (as the pilot remains focused on the

lead aircraft).

Lead student responsibilities:

Back up pilot on takeoff.

Coordinate and monitor the gear retraction signal (below 150 KIAS).

Confirm the Wingman's landing gear and flaps are up and locked.

Call Departure when both aircraft are safely airborne.

Direct and monitor the departure procedures.

Keep Wingman in sight and keep pilot appraised of Wingman's progress on the

rendezvous.

3-4 SECTION DEPARTURES