Formation Approach and Landing Techniques

CHAPTER 5

AIR FORCE T-38 TRACK INTERMEDIATES

523.

FORMATION APPROACH AND LANDING TECHNIQUES

a. Do not fly a steep approach; this tends to cause a rapid power reduction and quick

flare (swap ends), which the Wingman will not be able to match. The Wingman will then either

land short or hard.

b. Fly a normal to slightly shallow glide path (2-3 degrees), as this permits a power-on

approach, and slower power reduction.

c. Lead should monitor the Wingman throughout the approach. This means checking on

his position intermittently. Do not sacrifice flying a stable platform and a good approach and

landing.

d. Determine landing winds early and put the Wingman on the correct side for landing.

Configure early if necessary.

e. When lining up, Lead should position on his half of the runway to give the Wingman

the larger amount of runway. This helps the Wingman feel more comfortable during the

landing and eliminates his concerns about landing off of the runway edge.

f. The Wingman should check the runway alignment intermittently during the approach.

However, Wing's job is to fly formation and trust Lead to land the flight on the runway.

g. The Wingman can turn off his landing lights as a visual indication confirming the

"cleared cold" transmission during landing rollout.

5-26 T-38 FORMATION ADMIN