Ground Procedures - P-5570050

CHAPTER TWO

LOW-LEVEL AND TACTICAL FORMATION

Although lowering the landing gear, extending the flaps, or placing the props full forward

will increase drag and decelerate the aircraft, these methods are impractical and should not

normally be used. If an overrun occurs, WING will notify LEAD (e.g., "TWO/THREE's

overrunning on the left/right") and turn away from the formation. Once proper spacing is

obtained, move back into the enroute position.

Visibility forward from and across the cockpit is limited due to the high glare-shield, windshield

supports, small side windows and the windshield wipers. Compensate for this by moving your

head to maintain visual contact with the other aircraft.

The side-by-side seating arrangement results in a slight difference (parallax) between the

copilot's and pilot's sight picture. For standardization, fly the checkpoints as seen from the PAC

seat.

Wingtip vortices may induce a strong rolling or pitching tendency. If encountering wake

turbulence, add power and attempt to climb up and away from the preceding aircraft's

turbulence. You must exit the turbulence before you can fully regain control of your aircraft.

207. GROUND PROCEDURES

Prior to the brief, students shall obtain aircraft assignments and parking location from

Aircraft Issue.

During the "Before Start Checklist," navigation lights should be turned ON to identify the

aircraft as part of a formation flight.

Upon reaching "Avionics Master" on the "After Start Checklist," check-in as briefed per

your squadron's standard. LEAD will initiate flight check-in and then change the flight to

"Formation Common" frequency. When checking in, if wingmen need more time to

troubleshoot a problem or complete the checklist, say "TWO/THREE needs a minute." When

ready, WING says "TWO/THREE's ready." LEAD will call for taxi: "Montana/Stingray XXX,

flight of two/three, taxi with information Charlie, wingman's side numbers are XXX, XXX."

NOTE

Minimum taxi interval is two aircraft lengths. It is WING's

responsibility to maintain proper taxi spacing.

In the run-up area, LEAD ensures sufficient room is available for WING to position their

aircraft.

LEAD will obtain a clearance and squawk and pass to WING. LEAD will squawk the

appropriate code for the entire flight. WING aircraft transponders shall be set to "standby".

WING will check in when the "Takeoff Checklist" has been completed for C-12 or down to

the last five items for T-44.

2-8

TACTICAL FORMATION