Figure 3-4 The Starboard Parade Position

CHAPTER THREE

T-34C PRIMARY FORMATION FLIGHT TRAINING

Figure 3-4 The Starboard Parade Position

305. RELATIVE MOTION

Essentially, formation flying is nothing more than controlling the relative motion between

aircraft. To maintain a fixed position (the parade position for example), the Wingman's goal is to

stop all relative motion between aircraft. In order for Wing to do this, he must consider Lead as

fixed in space and any movement between aircraft is considered as movement of the Wingman in

relation to the Leader. To maintain parade position, the Wingman must correct for relative

motion between aircraft with smooth, timely control inputs. Wing must learn to judge bearing,

distance, and relative motion to anticipate the control inputs required and avoid fixating on any

one particular part of the Lead's aircraft. Scan Lead's entire aircraft, don't just use the

ventral point, prop arc, and exhaust stacks.

Relative motion can be resolved into movement about any one or a combination of all three axes.

Primarily, elevator controls vertical movement, power controls fore and aft movement, and

aileron controls lateral movement. When flying in the perfect parade position, the Wing aircraft

will maintain a 45 bearing from Lead (Figure 3-5).

3-8 SECTION PARADE