Formation flying

Post by **Spike** » Wed Jun 21, 2006 1:48 pm

So what do you guys think of the relatively large number of pilots getting into the formation flying with their RV's ?

cjensen · Post by **cjensen** » Wed Jun 21, 2006 2:31 pm

I think that is a pretty touchy subject/question...

Formation isn't for me...that's all I'm gonna say.

Wicked Stick · Post by **Wicked Stick** » Wed Jun 21, 2006 4:33 pm

I think it's not for everyone. But if you are considering it, get proper training by attending an FFI clinic near you.

RV's are great airplanes to do formation flying with. They have a decent power envelope and the light control inputs make it nice for this kind of flying.

I almost always wear a parachute and for the most part, only fly formation with pilots I know and trust, or are FFI rated.

I like the challenge and skill required to maintain a 3 to 6 foot spacing position, and have just started to work into some mild formation acro with another RV owner. (crazy eights, loops and rolls)

If you are curious about it, seek out a qualified FFI wingman or Flight lead and sit in on their next session. If you find it's something your interested in, then get with a safety pilot and learn what you need to know on the ground before taking it to the air. First flights should also be with the qualified safety pilot in the right/back seat. There are also books and videos on the subject if your interested in doing it right.

Formation flying is a really big part of why I fly. I like it that much and as I said before, it's not for everyone, but it sure is for me.

Dave Rogers
FFI Wingman WG-73

captain_john · Post by **captain_john** » Thu Jun 22, 2006 12:52 pm

I plan on learning it an keeping current enough to be safe and comfortable. My primary mission will be travel, but formation is a great way to hone your skills and get a real rush of excitement and gee whiz factor!

It isn't for everyone and I wouldn't do it with just anyone.

CJ

Wicked Stick · Post by **Wicked Stick** » Wed Jun 28, 2006 10:39 pm

captain_john wrote:I plan on learning it an keeping current enough to be safe and comfortable. My primary mission will be travel, but formation is a great way to hone your skills and get a real rush of excitement and gee whiz factor!

It isn't for everyone and I wouldn't do it with just anyone.

CJ

Captain,
When your ready to start learning, I'd be happy to sit in as your safety pilot, and pass along what I know to help you along, so that "You can be my wingman anytime"

cjensen · Post by **cjensen** » Wed Jun 28, 2006 10:47 pm

Wicked Stick wrote: Captain,
When your ready to start learning, I'd be happy to sit in as your safety pilot, and pass along what I know to help you along, so that "You can be my wingman anytime"

OOOHHH MAN! That deserves a

I just have to acknowledge any proper use of one of the BEST movie quotes of all time!!

Wicked Stick · Post by **Wicked Stick** » Thu Jun 29, 2006 12:29 pm

Yeah, I couldn't resist quoting that line from the movie, but to tell the truth.... Being the wingman is the most fun.
I really really like being #4 in a diamond slot and #3 in a missing man formation.

Flying lead requires you to be very smooth, very steady, and very predictable. A good lead for formation has to fly within the limits of his wingmen and every so often take them to the edge of their ability so they can learn from it.