DRAFT
SECTION TAIL-CHASE EXERCISE
This exercise is to demonstrate the effects of lead and lag pursuit on nose-to-tail distance.
The lead will give the arming signal to signal the tail-chase exercise. The lead will then give the "kiss-off' signal
and smartly break away. Wing will pause 2 seconds and break to follow lead at 1,000 ft nose-to-tail. Wing
should use lead and lag pursuit and power adjustments as required to maintain nose-to-tail interval as lead
maneuvers.
Lead can do maneuvers such as loops, barrel rolls, and wingovers. The wing should make sure he does not get
any closer than 500 ft to the lead during these maneuvers. If nose-to-tail becomes greater than 1,000 ft,
maneuver to the inside of your interval's turns (lead pursuit) in order to reduce the nose-to-tail. Conversely, if
nose-to-tail decreases, maneuver to the outside of your interval's turns (lag pursuit) until 1,000 ft is obtained,
then continue to follow your interval's flight path (pure pursuit).
This exercise will be completed with a rendezvous, normally a level, 30-degree AOB, circling rendezvous. The
lead will call over the radio for the rendezvous, normally stating the type and speed; wingman will execute the
called rendezvous.
OVERHEAD ENTRY (BREAK)
The section VFR overhead entry (break) brings a section from the operating area to the initial entry point and
into the break.
Descent
The lead follows the return to base (RTB) procedures IAW local course rules. The wingman flies parade or
cruise as directed. The lead's minimum power setting will be no less than 80 percent.
If a higher than normal rate of descent is required, the lead passes the speed brake signal. The wingman
acknowledges, and upon the lead's head nod, the flight extends their speed brakes.
Approximately 1,000 ft above the assigned altitude, the lead smoothly levels off. If speed brakes are extended,
the lead will pass the signal to retract them.
Field Entry
The initial point of entry is either about 5 nautical miles from the field on an extended centerline of the duty
runway or IAW local course rules. Both the lead and wingman must remember that flight maneuverability is
reduced, and both should increase their lookout when operating inside the initial and in the vicinity of the airport.
Prior to arriving over the runway, the lead must establish the flight in parade position with the wingman on the
side opposite the break direction. When cleared to break and with the proper interval, the lead kisses off and
breaks. The wingman then breaks at the briefed interval (generally 4 seconds) and makes a turn identical to the
lead's, keeping the lead on the horizon and establishing a trail position on downwind. At 200 KIAS, each aircraft
lowers his landing gear and flaps/slats and completes the landing checklist.
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DRAFT
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