Formation Takeoff Aborts

CHAPTER 5

AIR FORCE T-38 TRACK INTERMEDIATES

to the Fingertip position so that the formation is ready to penetrate weather if that is a factor on

takeoff. Be ready to give Lead a thumbs up when he looks at you to signal that his gear appears

to be up and locked. Continue the departure in the Fingertip position until otherwise directed by

Lead. If a power advantage or disadvantage is apparent, the Wingman may request one

additional increase or decrease in power (e.g., "String 21, give me one/push it up.") Wing makes

the "push it up" call if overrunning Lead and the Wingman feels a further power reduction is

unsafe. If after making this radio call the Wing passes ahead of Lead, then set max power,

maintain the respective side of the runway and make a separate takeoff. Do not attempt to fly

formation after passing Lead. Unless aborting the takeoff, at the "push it up" call Lead advances

power to 1015 ft-lbs and monitors the Wingman's position. If the Wingman continues to

overrun, perform a lead change over the radio ("Sting 22, you have the lead on the right/left")

and maintain safe spacing until a rejoin and subsequent lead change can be accomplished

airborne. The new Lead should direct appropriate measures to regain flight integrity or initiate

Lost Wingman procedures. At the "give me one" call, Lead may reduce the power to a

minimum of 900 ft-lbs. Limit maneuvering until the Wingman is in position. If, after making

this radio call, the Wing is unable to regain position, check proper engine operation, then ensure

max power, maintain the respective side of the runway and make a separate takeoff. Rejoin on

lead after becoming safely airborne and the gear is retracted.

d. Common Errors

(1)

Lead putting Two on the wrong side of the runway.

(2)

Lead forgetting brake release signal.

(3)

Lead forgetting run-up signal.

(4)

Wing allowing aircraft to fall too far aft.

(5)

Both students forgetting to accomplish last three items of Takeoff Checklist.

(6)

Lead forgets preparatory helmet tap prior to brake release signal.

(7)

Two forgets head nod to indicate readiness to proceed with takeoff sequence.

(8)

Lead releases brakes and/or advances power before chin hits chest.

503.

FORMATION TAKEOFF ABORTS

a. Description. Not applicable.

b. General. After brake release, if either aircraft aborts the takeoff, set max power

maintain lateral control of the aircraft, do not cross the centerline of the runway, follow abort

procedures, and transmit intentions over the radio. For this reason, Wing must maintain ample

wingtip clearance when lining up on the runway and throughout the takeoff.

Should a safety issue require both aircraft to abort after brake release the Lead will direct the

abort over the radio using the word "abort" three times ("Razor 41, abort, abort, abort"). Each

aircraft will execute NATOPS abort procedures while maintaining their respective side of the

runway.

5-4 T-38 FORMATION ADMIN