Formation flight is a type of flight in which multiple aircraft fly in a predetermined order framework as a single airplane like movement. Through prior agreements among pilots, the aircraft are treated as a unified unit in terms of spacing, position reporting, and instructions issued by air traffic control (ATC). Responsibility for maintaining separation between aircraft lies with the flight leader and the other pilots.
Bayraktar KIZILELMA - Bayraktar AKINCI Formation Flight
Formation Flights by Distance:
a) Near Formation: Flights in which the distance between two aircraft is 50 meters or less.
b) Far Formation: Flights in which the distance between two aircraft ranges from 50 to 200 meters.
Formation Flights by Experience Level:
a) Basic Formation: Pitch and bank angles do not exceed 30°. Maneuvers are smooth and fluid.
b) Intermediate Formation: Pitch and bank angles do not exceed 60°. Maneuvers can be performed across a wider range of parameters.
c) Unlimited Formation: There are no restrictions on pitch or bank angles.
General Principles of Formation Flight
- Safety: The distance and separation between aircraft are entirely the responsibility of the pilots. Particular care must be taken during formation assembly and disassembly maneuvers.
- Navigation: All aircraft follow the lead aircraft’s guidance.
- Communication: Communication with ATC is conducted solely by the lead aircraft. Formation members communicate among themselves.
- Training and Oversight: Pilots conducting formation flights must have completed the required training and be duly authorized. All procedures must be fully adhered to during demonstrations.
Display Formation Flights
Formation flights may include acrobatic or non-acrobatic performance packages. Pilots performing such flights must meet the following criteria:
- The pilot’s experience and past performance in formation flying,
- The compatibility of the maneuvers in the display package with the aircraft’s capabilities,
- The team leader’s and wing pilots’ mastery of their respective roles,
- Knowledge and experience regarding the distances, speeds, and visual references to be used,
- Two-way radio communication capability and proficiency in procedures to be followed in case of communication loss,
- Knowledge of emergency procedures and actions to be taken in the event of aborted takeoff or landing.
Oversight and Inspection
- Regular inspections are conducted to ensure the safety of formation flights. Training organizations, flight records, and training curricula are reviewed.
- Pilots may be called upon by the General Directorate to provide documentation of their qualifications when deemed necessary.
Restrictions and Limitations
- Daily display or training flights are limited to two hours or four sorties.
- Solo flight is prohibited until acrobatic training is completed.
- Acrobatic maneuvers below 1500 feet may be performed only by authorized pilots.
- Acrobatic maneuvers are prohibited in aircraft not certified for acrobatic flight.
- Appropriate safety equipment must be provided for maneuvers involving negative G forces.
- Display flights are not conducted under unsuitable meteorological conditions.
Formation flight is a flight method requiring precision, coordination, and discipline. This type of flight is supported by regular training and oversight for safety and efficiency. Special procedures and restrictions apply in high-attention scenarios such as display flights.
