Close Formation Flying  
 

 
Echelon Starboard
Line Astern
Echelon Starboard
Click on camera to see close formation slide show
Click on camera to see close formation video show
General

Flying an aeroplane in close proximity to another is highly demanding and lots of fun. This skill is taught to all military pilots during their basic training and whilst on there operational squadrons. I am not a military pilot I hear you say. No you are not but the application of flying close to another aeroplane is not just for the military pilot but for all pilots. The day may come when you are asked to assit another pilot in trouble and the best means of help is to shepherd them back to an airfield for a safe landing. Having completed the Close Formation Course you will have the necessary skill and confidence to do this task safely and effectively. Moreoever, the course will help you improve your flying skills and your airmanship as you will now have to think about more than just yourself (up to 3 other pilots and aeroplanes).

Pre-Course Entry Requirements

The candidate must have at least a PPL (A) / NPPL (A) with a valid medical certificate and class / type rating for the aircraft to be used on the course.

Training

The training will include:

  • 5 hours dual flight instruction
  • 45 minutes solo flight
  • 5 hours theoretical knowledge training

There is no formal flight test on completion of the close formation course. However, prior to the first solo formation flight an independent dual check is carried out.

The aeroplanes we use for the course are the Robin 200/2160s or PA28s.

Note: Pilots may use their own aircraft at the discretion of On-Track Aviation Limited.

References

AP3456 Royal Air Force Flying Manual Volume 5
On-Track Aviation Limited Close Formation Flying Syllabus
Instructional Techniques For The Flight Instructor by John Halstead and Alan Newton (click here for details)

Privileges

To fly as PIC as a wingman or leader of a formation of aeroplanes

Validity

There are no formal validity requirements. However, good airmanship and common sense dictate that a pilot who has not flown in formation or as a formation leader for some time should seek refresher training from a suitably qualified instructor.
 

What it says in the ANO - The Rules of the Air Regulations 1996

Rules for avoiding aerial collisions

17 (1) General

(a) Notwithstanding that the flight is being made with air traffic control clearance it shall remain the duty of the commander of an aircraft to take all possible measures to ensure that his aircraft does not collide with any other aircraft.

(b) An aircraft shall not be flown in such proximity to other aircraft as to create a danger of collision.

(c) Subject to sub-paragraph (g), aircraft shall not fly in formation unless the commanders of the aircraft have agreed to do so.

(g) Sub-paragraph (c) shall not apply to an aircraft flying under and in accordance with the terms of a police air operator's certificate.