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Version 1.2
100% Military Sourced, Beautifully Illustrated,
with Images by Renowned Aviation
Photographer Tyson Rininger!
FORMATION
THE
PILOTS KNOWLEDGE GUIDE
Adapted for all Aircraft - see Appendix D for Your Specific
Aircraft Formation Procedures!
This Formation Knowledge Guide is more than a training man-
ual. Included in the chapters and supporting appendices are uni-
versal procedures, terminology, and suggested operating limita-
tions applicable to all levels of qualifcation, from the day one
student to the seasoned fight leader and formation instructor.
In addition, the Knowledge Guide provides Appendix D for the
optional publication of procedural guidance specifc to the each
aircraft.
In the pages to follow, we have attempted to go beyond the
how of fying basic formation maneuvers, and attempted to
explain the why behind much of this guidance. This informa-
tion is not self-invention or personal technique, but sourced from
updated United States Air Force and Navy guidance utilized to
safely train thousands of airmen since WWII, in such aircraft as
the T-2, T-6, T-28, T-34, T-37 and T-38 primary trainers.
By following such a path, we beneft from the test of time. We
will do well to seek the knowledge gained in over 70 years of
military formation fight training. Good luck on your journey.
Notice of Update: Version 1.2 May 2012
Version 1.2 clarifes two of the most commonly accepted visual lead change procedures in Section 2.8.6 and corrects previous guidance. If
your guide differs in month, but not version number (i.e. V1.2), no procedural changes or additions are made and previously dated guides of
the current version are always valid as is. For questions on content, suggested edits, email the program manager at: a10smitty@verizon.net
Notice of Liability
The information in this guide is for reference only and the reader takes full responsibility for the use of this material. The information
is presented as is and neither the author(s), publisher or representing association shall have any liability to any person or entity with
respect to any loss or damage caused or alleged to be caused directly or indirectly by the instructions, information or imagery contained in
this document. WARNING: Not all procedures contained in this document may be appropriate for your aircraft.
Notice of Intended Use: The Formation Pilots Knowledge Guide with Appendix D
FAST signatories may replace the contents found in Appendix D of this document with information specifc to their signatory aircraft for
the beneft of their members. If you would like custom cover art refecting your signatory aircraft, please contact the publisher.
Copyright 2011
All rights reserved. Aviation organizations may adapt and republish content as is for educational and training purposes. No
organization may post, print or provide this document in any form for resale without the written consent of the publisher or FAST
Program Manager. Contact us at a10smitty@verizon.net for inquiries on distribution and modifcation for your use.
Acknowledgments
We would like to sincerely thank the following for their vital contribution in the creation of this guide; a special thanks to the complete
2006-7 RPA check pilot roster for their patience in providing editing and procedural feedback and input, the 2006-07 FAST Board of
Directors for advice and input, editing support provided by Mike Filucci, and to several rated staff offcers and fight line instructors of the
United States Navy and Air Force Pilot Training Commands for their collective knowledge and experience, communicated to the author
through interviews and personal visits in which unclassifed assistance was gratefully provided in the interest of safety for all aviators, ci-
vilian and military trained. Principal editor and publishing by Drew Blahnick. Digital art work by Drew Blahnick and Jed Nelson of Rama
World Inc. Photography by Tyson Riniger (www.tvrphotography.com) or where noted. Visual signal artwork by Jim Goolsby. Basic cover
design by Phil ShortBus Cogan and Drew Blahnick.
Table of Contents
Chapter One: .............................Formation Fundamentals
Chapter Two: ....................................Two Ship Formation
Chapter Three: ..................................... Two Ship Rejoins
Chapter Four: ........................ Extended Trail / Tail Chase
Chapter Five: ................................... Four Ship Formation
Chapter Six: .............................General Operating Limits
Chapter Seven: ...............................Abnormal Procedures
Appendix:
Appendix A: ............................. Formation Visual Signals
Appendix B: ...................... Formation Glossary of Terms
Appendix C: ............. Briefng and Debriefng Procedures
Appendix D: ....... Aircraft Specifc Operating Procedures
(POM)
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